SWITCHING CHAMBER FOR SWITCHING DEVICE AND SWITCHING DEVICE - Patent application

Abstract

A switching chamber (11) for a switching device (100) is provided, the switching chamber (11) having at least one switching chamber bottom (13), the switching chamber bottom having a bottom surface (30) on an inner side facing an internal space (110) of the switching chamber, the bottom surface having a web structure (31) protruding from the bottom surface into the internal space. Further provided is a switching device (100) having said switching chamber (11).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] A switching chamber for a switching device and a switching device are presented. [Background technology]

[0002] The switching device is especially designed as a remotely operated switch that can be driven by electric current and is electromagnetically actuated. The switching device can be actuated via a control circuit and can switch the load circuit. In particular, the switching device can be designed as a relay or as a contactor, in particular as a power contactor. Particularly preferably, the switching device can be designed as a gas-filled power contactor.

[0003] One possible application of such switching devices, in particular power contactors, is the opening and disconnection of battery circuits in motor vehicles, such as motor vehicles that are driven electrically or partly electrically. These can be, for example, purely battery-powered vehicles (BEV: “battery electric vehicle”), hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV: plug-in hybrid electric vehicle) and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV: hybrid electric vehicle) that can be charged via a socket or a charging station. In this case, both the positive and negative contacts of the battery are usually disconnected by means of a power contactor. This disconnection takes place both during normal operation, for example when the vehicle is idle, and also in the event of a fault, for example an accident. The main task of the power contactor is then to switch the vehicle to zero potential and to interrupt the current. In particular in the event of a fault, switching arcs occur when the current is interrupted. These arcs must be extinguished using suitable measures in order to interrupt the current safely and to prevent destruction of the switch. The goals in the design of the switching components are low cost, simple and fast production and a long service life, i.e. a large number of switching cycles.

[0004] To extinguish the arc, a hydrogen-containing gas filling and a permanent magnet arranged in the area of ​​the occurring arc, which can lead to a deflection of the arc, a so-called blow-out magnet, are usually used. For example, US Pat. No. 5,399,433 describes such a measure.

[0005] However, the switching arc and its extinction can lead to sputtering of the contact material of the switching contacts. Due to this effect, also called burn-off, the sputtered contact material can on the one hand deposit on the walls of the switching chamber in which the switching contacts are located. On the other hand, so-called molten beads can also be formed, which can fall to the bottom of the switching chamber and move in the discharge space during further operation due to the movement of the switching device in the application and due to vibration and suction effects, for example, during the gas exchange when switching on and off. There is a risk that the molten beads can, for example, interfere with or interrupt mechanical components, so that mechanically movable parts of the switching device can slow down or even completely stop moving during the switching process. To protect the mechanism against this, very tight guides for example for the switching chamber have been used in the past, which can however lead to longer evacuation and gas filling times.

[0006] Patent Documents 2 and 3 describe electromagnetic relays. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1168392 [Patent Document 2] DE112019005667T5 [Patent Document 3] DE 102009027844 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] At least one objective of a particular embodiment is to provide a switching chamber for a switching device. At least one objective of a further embodiment is to provide a switching device comprising such a switching chamber. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] These problems are solved by the subject matter of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and developments of the subject matter are set out in the dependent claims and are further evident from the following description and the drawings.

[0010] According to at least one embodiment, the switching chamber has at least one switching chamber bottom. In particular, the switching chamber may have an internal space. The area and surface of the switching chamber bottom facing the internal space may be arranged inside the switching chamber bottom. The area and surface of the switching chamber bottom not facing the internal space may be arranged outside the switching chamber bottom. The switching chamber may further have a switching chamber cover that may enclose the internal space together with the switching chamber bottom.

[0011] According to at least one further embodiment, the switching device has such a switching chamber. In particular, the switching chamber bottom can be a part of the switching chamber that forms the lower part of the switching chamber when viewed along the direction of gravity in a normal and practical installation of the switching device. As a result, any loose parts in the switching chamber that may be present can be found on the switching chamber bottom with a high probability due to the direction of gravity.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has at least one fixed contact and at least one movable contact. The at least one fixed contact and the at least one movable contact are intended and adjusted to switch on and off a load circuit connectable to the switching device. Accordingly, the movable contact is movable between a disconnected state and a connected state of the switching device such that in the disconnected state of the switching device, it is separated from the at least one fixed contact and thus electrically isolated, and in the connected state, it has a mechanical contact to the at least one fixed contact and thus electrically connected with said at least one fixed contact. Particularly preferably, the switching device has at least two fixed contacts, which are arranged separately from one another in the switching device and thus can be conductively connected to one another or electrically isolated from one another via the movable contact depending on the state of the movable contact. The features for the fixed contacts described below can particularly preferably apply to each fixed contact of the switching device.

[0013] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a housing in which the switching chamber as well as the movable contact and at least one fixed contact are arranged. The movable contact can in particular be arranged completely in the housing. Arranging the fixed contact in the housing can in particular mean that at least the contact area of ​​the fixed contact, which in the connected state is in mechanical contact with the movable contact, is arranged inside the housing. For the connection of the conductors of the circuit to be switched by the switching device, the fixed contacts arranged in the housing can be electrically contactable from the outside, i.e. from outside the housing. For this purpose, a part of the fixed contacts arranged in the housing can protrude from the housing and can have the possibility of connection for the conductors outside the housing.

[0014] According to a further embodiment, the contacts are arranged in a gas atmosphere in the housing. This can mean in particular that the moving contact is arranged completely in the gas atmosphere in the housing and further that a part of the fixed contact, for example the contact area of ​​the fixed contact, is arranged in the gas atmosphere in the housing. Accordingly, the switching device can particularly preferably be a gas-filled switching device, for example a gas-filled contactor.

[0015] According to a further embodiment, the contacts, i.e. the entire movable contact and at least part of the fixed contacts, are arranged in a switching chamber inside the housing, in which gas, i.e. at least part of the gas atmosphere, is present. The gas may contain 20% or more H2, preferably 50% or more and 100% or less H2. In addition to hydrogen, the gas may contain an inert gas, particularly preferably N2 and / or one or more noble gases. The gas in particular in the switching chamber may improve arc extinction.

[0016] According to a further embodiment, at least one blow-out magnet is arranged in or adjacent to the switching chamber, which can be particularly preferably formed by a permanent magnet. Furthermore, there can be several blow-out magnets. In the case of the switch-off process of the switching device under load while the load current is still flowing, i.e. the spatial separation of the movable contact and one or more fixed contacts, the arc that occurs in the process is deflected by the blow-out magnet and thus extended and pushed out of the contact area. This can also improve the arc extinction.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber, i.e. for example the switching chamber cover or the switching chamber bottom, has at least one opening through which the at least one fixed contact can protrude into the internal space of the switching chamber. As a result, a part of the at least one fixed contact can be located outside the switching chamber and another part of the at least one fixed contact can be located inside the switching chamber and thus in the internal space of the switching chamber. If the switching device has several fixed contacts, the switching chamber can preferably have a corresponding opening for each of the fixed contacts, for which the above applies.

[0018] The switching chamber cover may be formed, for example, in a cap-like shape and may consist of one or more parts. The switching chamber bottom may be formed, for example, substantially in a plate-like shape and may likewise consist of one or more parts. Particularly preferably, at least the switching chamber bottom is formed as one part, i.e. as an associated part that is not produced by assembly of a plurality of independently produced parts. In this case, the term "plate-like" may refer to a substantially flat design compared to the cap-like configuration. However, raised or depressed structures such as, for example, webs, grooves and rims may be present. Thus, "plate-like" may also mean, for example, dish-like. Furthermore, it may be possible to form both the switching chamber bottom and the switching chamber cover in a cap-like shape. Regardless of the specific shape of the switching chamber cover and the switching chamber bottom, they may be particularly preferably arranged with respect to one another to form a switching chamber in such a way that an internal space is formed in which the above-mentioned switching process takes place.

[0019] According to further embodiments, the switching chamber comprises a plastic material and / or a ceramic material. Particularly preferably, the switching chamber bottom can be manufactured using or from a plastic material. Particularly preferably, the switching chamber bottom is manufactured completely from a plastic material. For example, the switching chamber bottom can be formed as a molded part, i.e. as a one-piece part, which can be manufactured using a molding process, such as injection molding or compression molding. The switching chamber cover can be, for example, made of or from a ceramic material, or alternatively, made of a plastic material.

[0020] Particularly preferably, the plastic material may comprise one or more materials selected from polyoxymethylene (POM), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and polyamide (PA). As polyamide, preferably PA46 may be used.

[0021] POM is a semi-crystalline, extensively linear, thermoplastic material that can be prepared by chain polymerization or chain copolymerization and has the repeating element -CHR-O-, where R represents an organic residue. Particularly preferred plastic materials have the structure (CH2O) n , i.e. having or being formed by hydrogen as the residue R. Accordingly, the plastic material can be characterized by a relatively low carbon content and a very small tendency to form graphite. In particular, (CHO) n In the case of , the same carbon and oxygen content can lead to the evolution of mainly gaseous CO and H2 during thermally induced, and especially arc induced, decomposition. Thus, conductive wall coatings are unlikely to occur and the additional hydrogen can enhance arc extinction.

[0022] Furthermore, the plastic material may contain fillers, in particular glass materials, for example in the form of glass fibers, dispersed in the plastic material. Such fillers can affect and preferably improve the mechanical and thermal stability. Particularly preferably, the plastic material has a filler content, for example a glass fiber content, of 50% by weight or less.

[0023] Particularly preferably, the plastic material is selected, for example through the selection of a suitable polymer material and through the selection of a suitable proportion of fillers, such that it has sufficient mechanical and thermal stability under normal operating conditions of the switching device and at the same time the still hot contact material, which due to the arc-induced burn-off of the switching contacts reaches, for example in the form of a molten bead, on the switching chamber bottom, softens the plastic material, so that, for example, the molten bead in the switching chamber bottom can at least partially melt, whereby the molten bead on the switching chamber bottom can have limited freedom of movement. For example, the material of the switching chamber bottom can have a melting temperature of ≧250° C. and ≦350° C.

[0024] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom has a bottom surface on the inside facing the internal space of the switching chamber, the bottom surface having a web structure protruding from the bottom surface into the internal space. The bottom surface can be, in particular, a region of the switching chamber bottom that is not covered in the internal space in the fully assembled switching chamber and is therefore in principle accessible, for example, to molten beads. That is, the bottom surface can be, for example, a region of the inner switching chamber bottom that is surrounded by a surrounding, for example, raised edge structure.

[0025] The web structure may in particular be raised, i.e. may protrude in relief from the floor surface. The web structure may, for example, have at least one web extending across the bottom surface. In particular, the web structure may be designed such that the freedom of movement of loose parts on the switching chamber bottom may be reduced.

[0026] The web structure can be designed, for example, such that the bottom surface has a plurality of bottom regions separated from one another by the web structure. Loose parts, such as for example molten beads, can preferably be prevented by the web structure from reaching one bottom region to a bottom region separated from it, at least under normal operating conditions. Thereby, it can be achieved that the degree of freedom of movement of the molten beads on the bottom surface of the switching chamber bottom, at least under normal operating conditions, is limited. Preferably, the bottom surface regions separated from one another lie in the same plane and thus define this plane. In other words, the bottom surface without the web structure is preferably formed flat. For example, the plane in which the bottom regions lie can be arranged perpendicular to the direction of gravity in the normal installation of the switching device. In this case, the direction of gravity can also be referred to as the vertical direction. The direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the bottom regions can correspondingly be referred to as the vertical direction. Furthermore, the vertical direction can also be, in particular, the movement direction along which the movable contact moves during the switching operation. Furthermore, the vertical direction can also coincide with the axial direction of the axis along which the movable contact is moved. The longitudinal direction may be defined by the arrangement direction of the two fixed contacts, preferably perpendicular to the vertical direction. The transverse direction may be perpendicular to the vertical direction and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. The longitudinal direction and the transverse direction may thus span the plane in which the bottom region is located. The switching chamber bottom may, for example, have a substantially rectangular shape when viewed along the vertical direction. In this case, the longitudinal direction may run along the long side of the rectangle and the transverse direction may run along the short side of the rectangle, regardless of the arrangement of the fixed contacts.

[0027] The web structure, in particular at least one web, may have a height of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm. Here and below, unless otherwise stated, height indications relate to the distance measured vertically to the bottom region.

[0028] The web structure may furthermore have a plurality of webs, particularly preferably at least two intersecting webs. Furthermore, the web structure may have webs arranged in a grid, i.e. at least one web in the longitudinal direction, which intersects with two or more webs extending transversely thereto, i.e., for example, along the transverse direction. In other words, the web structure may, for example, have at least one longitudinal web and at least two transverse webs. In addition, the web structure may also have one or more webs extending obliquely to the longitudinal and transverse directions. For example, the web structure may form a honeycomb structure formed by a plurality of webs, for example with a rectangular or hexagonal honeycomb. By the web structure, the bottom surface with a total area is particularly preferably divided into a plurality of bottom regions separated from one another, each of the plurality of bottom regions having an area of ​​not more than 20% or not more than 10% of the total area.

[0029] To perform the switching action, the movable contact can be connected to a shaft, which protrudes through an opening in the switching chamber, and which can preferably be part of a magnetic drive or a motor drive, as described below.

[0030] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom has an opening for the passage of such an axis of the switching device. The web structure can have a collar structure formed on the bottom surface, thus raised above the bottom region, surrounding the opening. The collar structure can thereby form a channel, preferably extending vertically, inside which the axis can be guided. The collar structure can be formed, for example, by a substantially hollow cylindrical ridge, which can furthermore be directly adjacent to one or more webs. In other words, the collar structure can transition into one or more webs. A web, for example a longitudinal web or a transverse web, can be interrupted by an opening and thus by the collar structure. The collar structure can have a height at least equal to the height of at least one web. Preferably, the collar structure has a height equal to or greater than the height of all webs of the web structure. Furthermore, the collar structure can have an upper surface in the vertical direction, which is designed as a mechanical stop for a moving part of the switching device or as a counter-bearing for a spring.

[0031] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom has a surrounding edge structure surrounding the bottom surface having the web structure. The edge structure is particularly preferably raised above the bottom area such that the bottom surface is surrounded by the surrounding raised edge structure. Preferably, the edge structure has a height at least as high as the maximum height of the web structure. This may mean that the edge structure has a height equal to or greater than the height of at least one web, particularly preferably equal to or greater than the height of all webs of the web structure.

[0032] For example, the edge structure may be formed with a step and may have an inner edge portion with a first height and an outer edge portion with a second height, where the first height is greater than the second height. The inner edge portion may be directly adjacent to the outer edge portion and surrounded by the outer edge portion. For example, the outer edge portion may have a support surface for the switching chamber cover, and the inner edge portion abuts the inner side of the switching chamber cover in the assembled switching chamber cover. The edge structure may have a height equal to the height of the collar structure. If the edge structure has regions with different heights, such as the inner edge portion and the outer edge portion, the height of the edge structure refers to its maximum height, i.e. the first height in the given example.

[0033] Furthermore, the edge structure may have at least one spring element. The at least one spring element may, for example, be part of the outer edge and form at least a part of the support surface for the switching chamber cover. The at least one spring element may, for example, be formed in the form of a leaf spring and, in the assembled state of the switching device, exerts a force on the switching chamber cover. In particular, the switching chamber bottom may have a plurality of spring elements as part of the outer edge.

[0034] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom has, on its outer surface opposite to the inner surface, a sleeve-like guide region for guiding an axis in the opening. In other words, the guide region is preferably formed by a substantially hollow cylindrical ridge on the outer surface of the switching chamber bottom, through which a channel is led, which preferably leads to a channel formed by the collar structure. The opening of the switching chamber bottom is thus formed by a channel, which extends through the sleeve-like guide region and the collar structure. An axis for the movement of the movable contact can be guided through this channel.

[0035] The underside of the guide area facing away from the collar structure can be formed as a mechanical counter-bearing or as a mechanical stop for the spring of the switching device. Furthermore, the switching device can have a fixed yoke, which can be part of the magnetic drive device, above or directly on which the switching chamber bottom can be arranged. The sleeve-like guide area can protrude into the opening of the yoke. Thereby, it can be achieved, for example, that the shaft is mechanically guided not through the yoke, but through the guide area of ​​the switching chamber bottom and the collar structure.

[0036] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom has a ventilation channel that leads from the outside of the switching chamber into the interior space. Preferably, the ventilation channel opens into the ventilation opening of the collar structure. Particularly preferably, the ventilation opening of the interior space of the switching chamber is arranged at least partially above the collar structure in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the ventilation opening is particularly preferably arranged at a distance from the bottom surface. In other words, the ventilation opening is located at a certain height above the bottom region, in particular at a height of 0.5 mm or more or 1 mm or more. Thereby, loose parts such as, for example, molten beads can be prevented from reaching the ventilation channel. The ventilation channel can thus form a protected ventilation nozzle, through which, for example, the switching chamber can be quickly filled with gas, while the risk of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel during operation is minimized. In particular, the ventilation channel can also be separated from the channel guiding the shaft in the collar structure, so that even in the case of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel, there is no risk of impairing the movement of the shaft. On the outside of the sleeve-like guide area there may be a ventilation groove which transitions into a ventilation channel. Furthermore, there may be several ventilation channels and ventilation grooves, to which the above applies.

[0037] The switching chamber described herein can avoid problems that can occur in known switching devices, for example due to molten beads, by means of the switching chamber bottom described above. The switching chamber bottom forms a specially shaped shield, which can collect the molten beads that occur, for example in a honeycomb, and can allow a quick evacuation and filling of the switching chamber by means of one or more additional shielded ventilation channels. Particularly preferably, the switching chamber bottom, which may have the first task of preventing the arc from reaching parts located below it, such as flanges, is manufactured from the above-mentioned high melting point plastic. In the case of switching off of the switching device under load, the arc is preferably deflected by a blow-out magnet and driven away from the contact area between the switching contacts. If the arc reaches the switching chamber bottom, in particular in the case of POM as switching bottom material, but also in the case of PBT or PA, additional hydrogen can be liberated, as a result of which a rapid arc extinction can be achieved. In the case of molten beads that are generated by the burn-off of the contact material, the web structure can prevent them from moving around uncontrollably on the switching chamber bottom. The special shape of the ventilation channel also prevents molten beads from blocking the axis, while maintaining a sufficient pumping cross-section, so that it remains possible, for example, to effectively fill the switching chamber with gas during manufacture.

[0038] As such, the switching chamber bottom, which can be manufactured at substantially the same cost as conventional switching chamber bottoms, provides a readily achievable replacement solution for existing designs, which may lead to an extended useful life of the switching device.

[0039] Further advantages, advantageous embodiments and developments emerge from the exemplary embodiments described below in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0040] [Figure 1A]1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1B] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1C] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1D] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1E] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1F] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1G] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1H] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1I] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 1J] 1 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment; [Figure 2A] 4 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment; [Figure 2B] 4 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment; [Figure 2C] 4 is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0041] In the examples and figures, identical, similar or equivalently functioning elements may be respectively provided with the same reference numerals. The illustrated elements and their size ratios with respect to each other are not to scale, rather, individual elements such as layers, components, members and regions may be shown exaggeratedly large for better illustration and / or understanding.

[0042] 1A-1J show various views of an embodiment of a switching device 100 and parts thereof having a switching chamber 11. The switching device 100 can be used, for example, for switching high currents and / or high voltages and can be a relay or a contactor, in particular a power contactor.

[0043] In Fig. 1A, a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of a switching device 100 having a switching chamber 11 is shown. In Fig. 1B, the axis 7 is shown in isolation. In Figs. 1C-1F, various single views of the switching chamber bottom 13 of the switching chamber 11 are shown. In Figs. 1G-1J, cross-sectional views of the switching device 100 are shown to highlight various details. The following description is equally relevant to Figs. 1A-1J. It should be understood that the illustrated geometries are merely exemplary and not limiting, and may be designed in other ways.

[0044] The switching device 100 comprises two fixed contacts 2, 3 and one movable contact 4 in a housing 1. The movable contact 4 is formed as a contact plate which electrically connects the fixed contacts 2, 3 in the switched-on state of the switching device 100. The fixed contacts 2, 3 together with the movable contact 4 form a switching contact. The housing 1 serves primarily as a contact protection for the components arranged inside and comprises or consists of a plastic, such as, for example, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or glass-filled PBT. The contacts 2, 3, 4 can be or consist of, for example, Cu, a Cu alloy or a mixture of copper with at least one further metal, such as, for example, Wo, Ni and / or Cr.

[0045] The contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a switching chamber 11 formed by a switching chamber cover 12 and a switching chamber bottom 13. In the embodiment shown, the switching chamber cover 12 consists of a ceramic material comprising or consisting of a metal oxide, such as, for example, Al2O3. The fixed contacts 2, 3 protrude into the switching chamber 11 through openings in the switching chamber cover 12 and are, for example, soldered in said openings.

[0046] In FIG. 1A, the switching device 100 is shown in an idle state in which the movable contact 4 is separated from the fixed contacts 2, 3, so that the contacts 2, 3, 4 are electrically isolated from each other. The illustrated embodiment of the switching contacts and in particular their geometrical shape should be understood as purely exemplary and not limiting. Alternatively, the switching contacts can be designed in other ways. For example, it may be possible that only one of the switching contacts is designed as a fixed contact. In the switched-on state of the switching device 100, which in the illustrated embodiment is achieved by a movement of the movable contact along the vertical direction 91, the movable contact 4 is in contact with both fixed contacts 2, 3. Alternatively, the movable contact 4 can also be formed as a rotating contact, for example supported rotatably about a rotation axis along the vertical direction 91 to perform a switching operation. The state of the switching device 100 shown in FIG. 1A corresponds to a defined mounting orientation. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as "upper" and "lower" used below relate to the vertical direction 91 and to the defined mounting orientation.

[0047] The arrangement direction of the fixed contacts 2, 3 defines a longitudinal direction 92 in the illustrated embodiment, and the vertical direction 91 and the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 92 are referred to below as transverse directions 93. In Figures 1A-1J the directions 91, 92, 93 are shown for easier orientation.

[0048] The switching device 100 comprises, in the embodiment shown, a magnetic drive for moving the movable contact 4 to perform the switching operation. Alternatively, for example, a motor drive can also be provided. The magnetic drive comprises a magnet armature 5 for performing a switching operation substantially along a vertical direction 91. The magnet armature 5 comprises a magnetic core 6, which for example comprises or consists of a ferromagnetic material. Furthermore, the magnet armature 5 comprises a shaft 7, which is shown alone in FIG. 1B. The shaft 7 is guided through a part of the magnetic core 6 and is rigidly connected to the magnetic core 6 at one axial end, as can be seen in FIG. 1G. At the other axial end opposite the magnetic core 6, the magnet armature 5 comprises the movable contact 4.

[0049] The integrally formed shaft 7 may, for example, comprise or be made of stainless steel and in the illustrated embodiment has an integral support element 70 in the form of a disk-shaped region, as shown in Fig. 1B. The movable contact 4 is supported on the shaft 7 in a displaceable manner above the support element 70 by a contact spring 71 and an electrically insulating bridge holder 72, which in the illustrated embodiment comprise or consist of, for example, PBT or PA. On the contact side of the movable contact 4, i.e. on the upper side as seen in the vertical direction 91, the movable contact 4 is fixed to the shaft 7 by an electrically insulating intermediate disk 73, which comprises or consists of, for example, PBT or PA, and by a fastening nut 74. The illustrated support and fixation of the movable contact 4 to the shaft 7 should not be understood as limiting and can also be designed in different ways, as will be explained in connection with Figs. 2A-2C.

[0050] The magnetic core 6 is surrounded by a coil 8, which forms another part of the magnetic drive. A current in the coil 8, which can be connected from the outside, generates a vertical movement of the magnetic core 6 and thus of the entire magnet armature 5, until the movable contact 4 comes into contact with the fixed contacts 2, 3. Parts of a control board for controlling the coil 8 are shown on the right outside the coil in FIG. 1A. The magnet armature 5 moves from a first position, which corresponds to the idle state shown in FIG. 1A and at the same time the disconnected or unconnected state, to a second position, which corresponds to the active or connected state. In the active state, the contacts 2, 3, 4 are electrically connected to one another. In other embodiments, the magnet armature 5 can alternatively also perform, for example, a rotational movement, as further explained above. The magnet armature 5 can in particular be formed as a tension armature (Zuganker) or a hinged armature (Klappanker).

[0051] Furthermore, the magnetic drive of the switching device 100 comprises a yoke 9, which may comprise or consist of pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy and which forms part of the magnetic circuit. The yoke 9 has an opening 19 through which the shaft 7 is guided, as can be seen in Figures 1G and 1H. When the current in the coil 8 is interrupted, the magnet armature 5 is again moved to the first position by one or more springs 21, shown in Figure 1G. The switching device 100 is then again in an idle state with the contacts 2, 3, 4 open.

[0052] The yoke 9 is surrounded by a flange 10, which separates the switching chamber 11 from the lower part of the switching device 100 in which, inter alia, the magnetic core 6 and the coil 8 are located. The flange 10, which may form part of the magnetic circuit, may, like the yoke 9, comprise or consist of iron, e.g. pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy, and may be formed integrally with the yoke 9.

[0053] If the contacts 2, 3, 4 are opened, an arc may occur which may damage the contact surfaces. There may be a risk that the contacts 2, 3, 4 will "stick" to one another due to welding caused by the arc and will no longer be able to be separated from one another. In order to prevent the occurrence of such an arc, or at least to facilitate the extinction of any arcs that do occur, the contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a gas atmosphere, so that the switching device 100 is formed as a gas-filled relay or gas-filled contactor. For this purpose, the contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a gas-tight region 14 in the interior of the housing 1, inside the switching chamber 11 formed by the switching chamber cover 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13. In particular, the switching chamber cover 12 is part of the wall surrounding the gas-tight region 14. The gas-tight region 14 completely encloses the magnet armature 5 and the interior space 110 of the switching chamber 11. The gas-tight region 14, and therefore in particular also the switching chamber 11, is filled with gas. The gas that may be injected during the manufacture of the switching device 100, for example through a gas-filling pipe (not shown) in the area below the hermetic area 14, may particularly preferably contain hydrogen. In particular, the gas 14 may contain at least 50% or more H2 in an inert gas such as N2 and / or one or more noble gases, since a hydrogen-containing gas may promote the extinction of the arc. As can be seen in Fig. 1A, one or more blowout magnets 15, i.e., preferably permanent magnets, may be arranged additionally in the switching chamber 11 or alternatively also inside the switching chamber 11, which may result in the extension of the arc path and the deflection of the arc from the area between the contacts 2, 3, 4.

[0054] As can be seen in FIG. 1G, the upper part of the gas-tight area 14, which lies above the flange 10 and in which the contacts 2, 3, 4 in the switching chamber 11 are located, is connected to the lower part of the gas-tight area 14, which lies below the flange 10 and in which the magnetic core 6 of the magnet armature 5 is located, only via an opening 19 in the yoke 9, through which the shaft 7 is guided. In order to achieve, for example, fast pumping times when filling the gas-tight area 14, and to ensure gas exchange between the upper and lower parts during the switching process, it is necessary that a sufficient gas flow is possible through the opening 19 in the yoke 9. On the other hand, as described in the general part, melt beads of the contacts 2, 3, 4 may occur in the event of an arc-induced burn-off, which, if they reach the opening 19 or the lower part of the gas-tight area 14, creates a risk that the mobility of the machine parts is hindered or even blocked, which should therefore be avoided. The switching chamber 11 with the switching chamber bottom 13, which will be described in more detail below, is designed in such a way that both requirements can be taken into account.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the switching chamber cover 12 is formed in a cap-like manner and may consist of one piece or of several parts. The switching chamber bottom 13, which is shown individually from several viewing angles in Fig. 1C-1F, is formed in a plate-like manner and is manufactured in one piece. The switching chamber cover 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13 surround an interior space 110 in which the switching process takes place. Alternatively to the illustrated embodiment, for example the switching chamber bottom 13 may also be formed in a cap-like manner, i.e. have a substantially higher edge.

[0056] The switching chamber bottom 13 preferably comprises a plastic material, particularly preferably a plastic material from which hydrogen can be liberated when heated. In particular, the plastic material is formed in such a way that hydrogen can be liberated by an arc impinging on the plastic material, so that an improvement of the arc extinction can be achieved by additionally liberated hydrogen, particularly advantageously in the form of H2. The plastic material can, for example, comprise or be polyoxymethylene (POM). Alternatively or additionally, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and / or polyamide (PA), in particular PA46, are also possible as plastic materials. Furthermore, the plastic material can comprise fillers dispersed in the plastic material, in particular glass materials, for example in the form of glass fibres. Particularly preferably, the plastic material has a filler content, for example a glass fibre content, of 50% or less by weight. Particularly preferably, the plastic material is selected through the selection of a suitable polymer and through the selection of a suitable filler proportion, so as to have sufficient mechanical and thermal stability under normal operating conditions of the switching device 100. Furthermore, the switching chamber bottom 13 may have a softening or melting temperature selected such that the still hot contact material reaching the switching chamber bottom 13 in the form of a molten bead due to, for example, arc induced burn-off of the switching contacts can soften the plastic material so that, for example, the molten bead can at least partially melt within the switching chamber bottom 13, thereby limiting the freedom of movement of the molten bead. For example, the material of the switching chamber bottom 13 may have a melting temperature of 250° C. or higher and 350° C. or lower.

[0057] The switching chamber bottom 13 has a bottom surface 30 on its inside facing the interior space 110 of the switching chamber, with a web structure 131 protruding from the bottom surface 30 into the interior space. The bottom surface 30 is an inner region of the switching chamber bottom 13 that is surrounded by a circumferential, and in the illustrated embodiment, raised edge structure 32.

[0058] The web structure 31 has at least one web 311 that protrudes in relief from the bottom surface 30 and extends over the bottom surface 30. The web structure 31 is designed such that the freedom of movement of loose parts such as molten beads on the switching chamber bottom 13 can be reduced.

[0059] In the illustrated embodiment, the web structure 31 has a plurality of webs 311 and is formed such that the bottom surface 30 has a plurality of bottom regions 301 separated from each other by the web structure 31. For clarity, not all webs are labeled with reference numbers in Figs. 1D-1F. Loose parts, e.g. molten beads, can preferably be prevented by the web structure 31 from reaching the separate bottom regions 301 from the bottom region 301, at least under normal operating conditions. As a result, the freedom of movement of the molten beads on the bottom surface 30 of the switching chamber bottom 13, at least under normal operating conditions, can be limited. Preferably, the separated bottom regions 301 are in the same plane and thus define said plane, which is preferably oriented perpendicular to the vertical direction 91, in which case the bottom surface 30 would be formed flat without the web structure 31.

[0060] The web structure, particularly webs 311, preferably has a height of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, with height indications referring to the distance measured in the vertical direction 91 to bottom region 301 unless otherwise stated. A particular range of heights may effectively limit the freedom of movement of molten beads, which typically have an average size of 0.5 mm to 1 mm, without web structure 31 requiring too much space in the vertical direction.

[0061] The web structure 31 has intersecting webs 311 extending, for example, in the longitudinal direction 92 and the transverse direction 93 as shown. As shown, the web structure 31 may have at least one web 311 in the longitudinal direction and two or more webs 311 extending transversely thereto, for example, webs 311 extending along transverse directions that intersect with each other. As shown, the web structure 31 may have, for example, one longitudinal web and four transverse webs. In addition, the web structure 31 may also have one or more webs extending obliquely with respect to the longitudinal direction 92 and the transverse direction 93. With the intersecting webs 311, the web structure 31 may form a honeycomb structure, for example, having a rectangular honeycomb as shown, or alternatively, for example, having a hexagonal honeycomb. The web structure 31 divides the bottom surface 30 having a total area into a number of bottom regions 301 separated from each other, each of the plurality of bottom regions 301 preferably having an area of ​​20% or less, or 10% or less, of the total area.

[0062] As mentioned above, the switching chamber bottom 13 has an opening 33 for the passage of the shaft 7 of the switching device 100. The web structure 31 has a collar structure 312 that surrounds the opening 33 and is raised above the bottom region 301 of the bottom surface 30. The collar structure 312 thereby forms a channel in the vertical direction 91, inside which the shaft 7 can be guided. The collar structure 312 is formed, for example, as shown, by a substantially hollow cylindrical ridge that can be directly adjacent to one or more webs 311, so that the collar structure 312 transitions into one or more webs 311. As shown, for example, a longitudinal web can be interrupted by the opening 33 and thus by the collar structure 312. The height of the collar structure 312 is preferably at least equal to the height of the web 311 or, as shown, is greater than the height of the web 311.

[0063] Furthermore, the collar structure 312 has an upper surface 313, seen in the vertical direction 91, which is formed as a mechanical stop for the support element 70 of the shaft 7, as can be seen, for example, in FIG. 1I.

[0064] Furthermore, the switching chamber bottom 13 has, on its outer surface opposite to the inner surface, a sleeve-like guide area 314 for guiding the shaft 7 in the opening 33. The sleeve-like guide area 314 is formed by a substantially hollow cylindrical ridge on the outer surface of the switching chamber bottom 13, through which a channel is led, which preferably connects to the channel formed by the collar structure 312. The opening 33 of the switching chamber bottom 13 is thus formed by a continuous channel, which passes through the sleeve-like guide area 314 and continues through the collar structure 312. The shaft 7 for moving the movable contact 4 is guided in this channel. The sleeve-like guide area 314 further protrudes into the opening 19 of the yoke 9, as can be seen in Figs. 1G and 1H. Thereby, it can be achieved that the shaft 7 is mechanically guided through the guide area 314 and the collar structure 312 of the switching chamber bottom 13, but not through the yoke 9. As can be seen in FIG. 1G, the underside 315 of the sleeve-like guide region 314 facing away from the collar structure is formed as a mechanical counter-bearing for the spring 21 of the switching device 100 .

[0065] According to a further embodiment, the switching chamber bottom 13 has at least one ventilation channel 316. As can be seen for example in FIG. 1H, the switching chamber bottom 13 in the illustrated embodiment has two ventilation channels 316 arranged on either side of the opening 33 in the transverse direction. There may further be another ventilation channel or only one ventilation channel. Each of the ventilation channels 316 leads from the outside of the switching chamber 11 into the interior space 110. In particular, each of the ventilation channels 316 opens into the interior space 110 by a ventilation opening 317 of the collar structure 312. 1I, the ventilation openings 317 are arranged in the vertical direction in the interior space 110 of the switching chamber 11, partly on the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312, in particular in the peripheral region of the upper surface 313, so that the ventilation openings 317 remain at least partly uncovered even when the support element 70 of the shaft 7 rests on the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312. In that way, the collar structure 312 has circumferentially extending terraces between the ventilation openings 317, which ensures that the ventilation openings 317 are freely accessible regardless of the switching state of the switching device 100.

[0066] Furthermore, the ventilation opening 317 is arranged at a distance from the bottom surface 13. In other words, the ventilation opening 317 is located at a certain height above the bottom region 301, in particular at a height of 0.5 mm or more or 1 mm or more. The lower edge of the ventilation opening 317 can be arranged, for example, at a height corresponding to the height of the web 311. The higher arrangement of the ventilation opening 317 can prevent loose parts, such as molten beads, from reaching the ventilation channel 316. Furthermore, the ventilation channel 316 is also separated from the channel guiding the shaft 7 in the collar structure 312, as can be seen in FIG. 1H, so that even in the case of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel 316, there is no risk of impairing the movement of the shaft. Thereby, the ventilation channel 316 can form a protected ventilation nozzle, through which, for example, the switching chamber 11 can be quickly filled with gas, while the risk of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel 316 and of impediment to the mobility of the shaft 7 during operation is minimized. On the outside of the sleeve-like guide region 314, as can be seen in Fig. 1H, further ventilation grooves 318 may be provided, each of which merges into the ventilation channel 316.

[0067] The web structure 31, and in particular the honeycomb structure formed thereby, can prevent the molten beads from reaching into the guide of the shaft 7 formed by the collar structure 312 and the sleeve-like guide element 314 and into the lower part of the switching device 100. This can be made even more difficult by arranging the ventilation openings 317 higher. The terraces of the collar structure allow a sufficient pumping cross section and gas exchange even when a component rests flush on the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312.

[0068] The outer side of the switching chamber bottom 13 is further provided with an adjustment element 34 in the form of a cylindrical or disk-shaped protuberance, which, when the switching chamber bottom 13 is placed on the flange 10, engages with a corresponding adjustment element 101 in the form of a matching recess. This allows a precise positioning of the switching chamber bottom 13 on the flange 10 to be easily achieved. Alternatively to the illustrated configuration, the adjustment elements 34, 101 can also be designed in a different manner, in which case the adjustment elements preferably engage with each other.

[0069] Furthermore, the switching chamber bottom 13 has an edge structure 32 surrounding the bottom surface 30 having the web structure 31 as described above. As shown, the edge structure 32 is particularly preferably formed in a raised manner above the bottom region 301 such that the bottom surface 30 is surrounded by the circumferential raised edge structure 32. Preferably, the height of the edge structure 32 is greater than the height of the webs 311 of the web structure 31.

[0070] As shown, the edge structure 32 can be particularly preferably formed with a step and can have an inner edge 321 with a first height and an outer edge 322 with a second height, where the first height is greater than the second height. The inner edge 321 directly adjoins the outer edge 322 and is surrounded by it. The outer edge 322 has a support surface 323 for the switching chamber cover 12, as can be seen in Figs. 1H and 1J, while the inner edge 321 contacts the inner side of the switching chamber cover 12 when the latter is attached. The height of the edge structure 32 can particularly preferably be equal to the height of the collar structure 312. If the edge structure 32 has regions with different heights, such as the inner edge 321 and the outer edge 322 described above, the height of the edge structure 32 indicates its maximum height, here the first height.

[0071] Furthermore, the edge structure 32 has a spring element 324 which is part of the outer edge 322. Instead of the four spring elements 324 shown, there may be more or fewer spring elements. The spring elements 324 may be formed, for example, in the form of a leaf spring and, in the assembled state of the switching chamber 11, exert a force on the switching chamber cover 12, so that the switching chamber bottom 13 can be held by a clamping force without further fastening means between the switching chamber cover 12 and the flange 10.

[0072] 2A-2C show cross-sectional views of a switching device 100 according to another embodiment, in which, compared to the previous embodiment, the magnet armature 5 has a bridge holder 72 that is rigidly connected to the shaft 7, unlike the previous embodiment.

[0073] The bridge holder 72 is formed on the axis 7 and, in comparison with the previous embodiment, has a support element 70. The contact spring 71 is supported directly on the support element 70 and on the underside of the movable contact 4. As can be seen in FIG. 2A, the bridge holder 72 further comprises an anchor part 75 with a locking lug which forms a bayonet-type lock together with a suitably shaped opening in the movable contact 4. By inserting the anchor part 75 into the opening in the movable contact 4 and rotating the movable contact 4 by, for example, 90°, the movable contact 4 can be locked on the bridge holder 72. Furthermore, further features and embodiments of the bridge holder of the embodiment of FIGS. 2A-2C are described in the older publication WO2020 / 187586A1, the disclosure content of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by reference.

[0074] By the above described configuration of the switching chamber base 13, in particular of the ventilation openings, continuous ventilation of the switching chamber 11 can be achieved regardless of the specific shape of the bridge holder, in particular of the support elements.

[0075] The features and embodiments described in relation to the drawings can be combined with each other according to further embodiments, even if not all combinations are explicitly described. Furthermore, the embodiments described in relation to the drawings can alternatively or additionally have further features according to the description in general part.

[0076] The invention is not limited thereto by the description based on the examples, but rather includes all novel features and all combinations of features, including in particular all combinations of features in the claims, even if the feature or combination itself is not explicitly set out in the claims or examples. [Explanation of symbols]

[0077] 1. Housing 2, 3 fixed contacts 4 Movable contacts 5 Magnet Armature 6 magnetic core 7-axis 8 Coils 9. York 10 Flange 11 Switching Chamber 12 Switching chamber cover 13 Bottom of switching chamber 14 Airtight Zone 15 Blowout Magnet 19 Aperture 21 Spring 30 Bottom 31 Web Structure 32 Edge Structure 33 Aperture 70 Supporting Elements 71 Contact spring 72 Bridge holder 73 Intermediate Disk 74 Fastening nut 75 Anchor section 91 vertical direction 92 Longitudinal 93 Transverse 100 Switching Device 101 Adjustment Factors 110 Interior Space 301 Bottom area 311 Web 312 Color Structure 313 Top surface 314 Sleeve-like guide area 315 Bottom surface 316 Ventilation Channel 317 Ventilation opening 318 Ventilation ditch 321 Inner edge 322 Outer edge 323 Support surface 324 Spring elements

Claims

1. A switching chamber (11) for a switching device (100), comprising at least one switching chamber bottom (13), The switching chamber bottom (13) has a bottom surface (30) having a web structure (31) protruding from the bottom surface (30) into the internal space (110) on the inside facing the internal space (110) of the switching chamber (11).

2. The switching chamber (11) of claim 1, wherein the bottom surface (30) has a plurality of bottom regions (301) separated from one another by the web structures (31).

3. The switching chamber (11) of claim 2, wherein the bottom surface (30) has a total area, and each of the plurality of bottom regions (301) has an area that is 20% or less of the total area.

4. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the web structure (31) comprises at least one web (311) separating at least two bottom regions from each other.

5. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 4, wherein the at least one web (311) has a height of 0.5 mm to 5 mm.

6. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the web structure (31) forms a honeycomb structure.

7. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching chamber bottom (13) has an opening (33) for the passage of an axis (7) of the switching device (100), and the web structure (31) has a collar structure (312) raised above the bottom surface (30) and surrounding the opening (33).

8. 8. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 7, wherein the height of the collar structure (312) is greater than the height of at least one web (311) of the web structure (31).

9. A switching chamber (11) as described in any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the bottom surface (30) is surrounded by a circumferential raised edge structure (32), the height of the edge structure (32) being greater than the height of at least one web (311) of the web structure (31).

10. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 9, which is dependent on claim 7, wherein the edge structure (32) and the collar structure (312) have the same height.

11. The edge structure (32) has an inner edge portion (321) having a first height and an outer edge portion (322) having a second height; the first height is greater than the second height; The outer edge portion (322) has a support surface (323) for a switching chamber cover (12) of the switching chamber (11), The switching chamber of claim 9, wherein the edge structure (32) has at least one spring element (324) that is part of the support surface.

12. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching chamber bottom (13) has a spring element (324) which is part of the outer edge (322) and which is formed in the form of a leaf spring.

13. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching chamber bottom (13) has, on an outer surface opposite to the inner surface, a sleeve-shaped guide region (314) for guiding an axis (7) of the switching device (100).

14. A switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a ventilation channel (316) reaches from the outside of the switching chamber (11) into the interior space and opens into the interior space by a ventilation opening (317) in a collar structure (312) of the web structure (31).

15. 15. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 14, when taken from claim 13, wherein the sleeve-like guide region (314) is provided on the outside with a ventilation groove (318) which merges into the ventilation channel (316).

16. 15. The switching chamber (11) of claim 14, wherein the ventilation opening (317) is disposed in the interior space of the switching chamber (11) on an upper surface (313) of the collar structure (312).

17. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 14, wherein the ventilation opening (317) is spaced apart from the bottom surface (30).

18. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the switching chamber bottom (13) is integrally formed from a plastic material, the plastic material comprising one or more materials selected from polyoxymethylene, polybutylene terephthalate and polyamide, and a glass fiber content of 50% or less.

19. A switching device (100), comprising: - a switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, - at least one fixed contact (2, 3) and one movable contact (4) in said switching chamber (11), The switching chamber includes a gas containing H2.

20. a magnetic drive device having a shaft (7) protruding into the switching chamber (11) through an opening (33) in the switching chamber bottom (13); The magnetic drive device has a fixed yoke (9), and the switching chamber (11) is disposed above the fixed yoke (9); The switching chamber (11) according to claim 19, wherein the switching chamber bottom (13) has a sleeve-shaped guide region (314) on the outer side opposite the internal space of the switching chamber (11) which protrudes into the opening of the yoke (9).

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