Actuation mechanism for the device

Abstract

To provide a device of which reliability is high, the size is in compact and a space is saved.SOLUTION: A device is arranged along a first axis, and comprises: a fixed contact and movable contact; a plurality of switch mechanisms constructed so as to connect and cut an electric power supply from a load; and an operation mechanism for operating the plurality of switch mechanisms at the same time. The operation mechanism comprises: a bridge constructed so as to move the movable contact of the plurality of switch mechanisms; a shaft that is arranged along a rotational axis that is parallel to the first axis, and rotates around the rotational axis as a center; and one or more force transmission mechanisms that is constructed so as to convert a torque from a rotation of the shaft into a straight force acted to a second direction against the bridge. The second direction is vertical to the first axis. The movement of the bridge to the second direction corresponded to the straight force blocks each switch mechanism so that the movable contact is electrically contacted to the fixed contact, and connects the electric power supply to the load.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1A

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present application relates to an actuation mechanism for a device. In particular, the present application relates to a switching device having multiple switching mechanisms, the actuation mechanisms and the switching mechanisms being arranged in a depth orientation. In some specific exemplary implementations, the device is a Vacuum Circuit Breaker (VCB). [Background technology]

[0002] Switchgear and other switching devices are used to control and protect electrical equipment, such as equipment operated by electric utilities, commercial building owners, and operators of distributed renewable generation assets such as solar photovoltaic and wind turbines. Such switchgear includes a variety of medium voltage devices (e.g., devices rated at 12 kV or 24 kV) for a variety of applications, such as ring main units (RMUs). Other switching devices include, for example, vacuum circuit breakers (VCBs).

[0003] It is desirable to provide a highly reliable, compact, space saving device for any given equipment specification or application. It is also desirable to provide a space saving actuation mechanism. Summary of the Invention

[0004] What is desired to be protected is set forth in the appended claims.

[0005] A switching device disclosed herein includes a plurality of switching mechanisms arranged along a first axis, each including a fixed contact and a movable contact, configured to connect and disconnect a power source from a load, and an actuation mechanism for simultaneously actuating the plurality of switching mechanisms. The actuation mechanism includes a bridge configured to move the movable contacts of the plurality of switching mechanisms, a shaft arranged along a rotational axis parallel to the first axis and configured to rotate about the rotational axis, and one or more force transmission mechanisms configured to convert torque from rotation of the shaft into a linear force acting on the bridge in a second direction. The second direction is perpendicular to the first axis. Movement of the bridge in the second direction in response to the linear force brings the movable contacts into electrical contact with the fixed contacts to close the switching mechanism and connect the power source to the load.

[0006] In some implementations, for each switching mechanism, the moving contact is disposed between the shaft and the fixed contact along the second direction. Optionally, one or more force transmission mechanisms are disposed between the shaft and the fixed contact along the second direction. Optionally, the one or more force transmission mechanisms are coupled to the shaft.

[0007] In some implementations, each switching mechanism comprises a vacuum interrupter. Optionally, the switching devices are vacuum circuit breakers.

[0008] In some examples, the one or more force transmission mechanisms include a secondary shaft configured to rotate about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis and the second direction, a four-bar linkage configured to apply a linear force to move the bridge in the second direction in response to rotation of the secondary shaft, and a coupling configured to rotate the secondary shaft in response to rotation of the shaft so as to transfer torque from the rotation of the shaft to drive the four-bar linkage.

[0009] Optionally, the coupling comprises a bevel gear pair. Optionally, the bevel gear pair is a 1:1 bevel gear pair. In some examples, the coupling further comprises a spur gear pair, the bevel gear pair and the spur gear pair rotatably connected by a shaft extending parallel to a third axis. Optionally, the spur gear pair is a 1:1 spur gear pair. This configuration can facilitate providing a more compact device.

[0010] In some examples, the shaft and the secondary shaft overlap but are offset along the second direction. Optionally, the shaft comprises an offset portion extending parallel to but offset from the rotation axis of the shaft. Optionally, the device further comprises an elastically deformable member coupled to the offset portion of the shaft, wherein rotation of the shaft about the rotation axis in response to a user input causes deformation of the elastically deformable member, and a restoring force due to deformation of the deformed elastically deformable member causes further rotation of the shaft about the rotation axis independent of the user input. Optionally, the elastically deformable member is a tension spring.

[0011] This offset resiliently deformable member can facilitate providing a toggle point beyond which can allow user independent actuation of the device and therefore can facilitate faster actuation of the device.

[0012] Optionally, the one or more force transmission mechanisms comprise one or more cams disposed on the shaft and one or more corresponding cam followers disposed on the bridge. The cam and cam follower arrangement can facilitate reliable actuation of the switching mechanism via the shaft of the actuation mechanism, while aligning the shaft with the remainder of the actuation mechanism and the switching mechanism can make the overall actuation mechanism more compact.

[0013] In some examples, the device further comprises a latch configured to hold the actuation mechanism when the switching mechanism is closed, the latch being engageable by a user to release the actuation mechanism and open the switching mechanism. The latch can be engaged to hold the actuation mechanism and prevent further rotation of the shaft, thereby keeping the switching mechanism closed until released by the user. Thus, accidental opening of the device can be prevented.

[0014] Also disclosed herein is a switchgear comprising a plurality of switching devices as described above, each switching device comprising a plurality of poles, each pole being associated with a respective switching mechanism of the switching device.

[0015] In some examples, one or more grounding or disconnect switches may also be provided. For example, the switching device described herein may further comprise a plurality of disconnectors and grounding switches, each disconnector and grounding switch associated with a respective switching mechanism. Each disconnector and grounding switch may comprise a disconnector blade having a first end and a second end, the disconnector blade configured to pivot about the first end between three different positions, including a first position in which the disconnector and grounding switch is closed and the power source is connected to the load via the disconnector blade, a second position, i.e., an isolated position, in which the disconnector and grounding switch is open and the power source is disconnected from the load, and a third position in which the power source is disconnected from the load and the second end of the disconnector blade is electrically connected to a ground contact. Such a disconnector and grounding switch (also referred to as a ground disconnecting switch) may be referred to as a 3PS switch (3-pole disconnector and grounding switch).

[0016] It is desirable to provide a reliable, compact, space-saving switchgear. It is also desirable to provide an earthing disconnect switch (also called a disconnector and earthing switch) having three positions: on, off (or isolating), and earthing, to facilitate field testing of cable integrity and improve ease of maintenance of the switchgear. It is particularly desirable to combine a three-pole disconnector and earthing with a compact switchgear. A switchgear with an actuation mechanism as described herein can facilitate such a compact switchgear. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0017] The following description refers to the drawings. [Figure 1A] FIG. 1A shows a plan view of an existing switchgear structure, and FIG. 1B shows a plan view of a depthwise switchgear structure as described herein. [Figure 1B] FIG. 1A shows a plan view of an existing switchgear structure, and FIG. 1B shows a plan view of a depthwise switchgear structure as described herein. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A shows a schematic plan view of an exemplary switching device having a depth structure, and FIG. 2B shows a side view of the switching device of FIG. 2A. [Figure 2B] FIG. 2A shows a schematic plan view of an exemplary switching device having a depth structure, and FIG. 2B shows a side view of the switching device of FIG. 2A. [Figure 3-1] FIG. 1A is a perspective view of a first exemplary switching device. [Figure 3-2] FIG. 1B is a side view of the switching device of FIG. [Figure 3-3] 1C is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of an actuation mechanism for the first exemplary switching device. [Diagram 3-4] 13D and 13E are schematic diagrams of another embodiment of an actuation mechanism of the first exemplary switching device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 illustrates a perspective view of a second exemplary switching device. [Figure 5A]FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of the second exemplary switching device of FIG. 4, and FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of an actuation mechanism of the second exemplary switching device. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5A illustrates a side view of the second exemplary switching device of FIG. 4, and FIG. 5B is a schematic diagram of an actuation mechanism of the second exemplary switching device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic diagram of the position of a second exemplary switching device during operation. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0018] Referring to the schematic diagram of Figure 1A, an existing switchgear structure is shown in plan view (top down). This exemplary switchgear 100a is a three-way, three-phase (or three-pole) device, i.e., it has three switching devices 208, each with three phases / poles 210. In some examples, each switching device has a two-pole disconnect switch for live and ground contacts, e.g., a switch with two positions (on, ground). The disconnect switches or disconnectors and ground switches are not shown.

[0019] Each switching device is arranged within the panel or housing 216 along a longitudinal direction 102 (or longitudinal axis 102), with each switching device's phases / poles (L1, L2, L3) similarly arranged along the longitudinal direction. This arrangement is referred to herein as a "longitudinal" or "widthwise" orientation. In one particular example of an existing switchgear, such a longitudinal / widthwise configuration provides a width w (along the longitudinal direction 102) of 1100 mm, and a depth d (along the transverse direction 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of 600 mm. However, it will be appreciated that the switchgear may have other dimensions and may include any suitable combination of switch types.

[0020] 1B, a new switchgear structure according to the present invention is shown in plan view (top down). This exemplary switchgear 100b is a three-way, three-phase (or three-pole) device, i.e., it has three switching devices 208, each with three phases / poles 210. In some examples, each switching device has a three-pole grounding disconnect switch (or disconnector and grounding switch) with three positions (on, off or isolated, grounded). In other examples, each switching device has a two-pole disconnect switch, as in switchgear 100a. The disconnect switches or disconnector and grounding switches are not shown.

[0021] Each switching device 208 is disposed within the panel or enclosure 116 along the longitudinal direction 102, while the phases / poles 210 of each switching device 208 are disposed along the transverse direction 104 (the poles of each switch are disposed along their respective transverse axes 104). This arrangement is referred to herein as a "transverse" orientation or a "depth" orientation. In one particular example of the proposed switchgear, such a transverse / depth structure provides a transverse width w (along the longitudinal direction 102) of 900 mm, with a depth d (along the transverse direction 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 102) of 780 mm. In another particular example, such a transverse / depth structure provides a transverse width w (along the longitudinal direction 102) of 700 mm, with a depth d (along the transverse direction 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 102) of 750 mm. However, it will be understood that a switchgear having this orientation may have other dimensions and may include any suitable combination of switch types. For example, any switchgear device 100b may include multiple switching devices 208, each having multiple poles 210 arranged according to the structure of FIG. 1B.

[0022] In other words, the switchgear configuration of FIG. 1B can be implemented for any switchgear comprising a plurality of switching devices 208 configured to disconnect power from a load in general. The novel switchgear structure illustrated in FIG. 1B may reduce the lateral width of the switchgear product. This provides a more compact switchgear while also making it possible to provide, for example, a three-pole disconnect switch for ground contacts (three-pole disconnect and ground switch). However, the operating mechanism of the existing switchgear 100a needs to be modified to accommodate the depth orientation of the switchgear 100b. This will be explained with reference to FIG. 2.

[0023] The switching device 208 will be described with reference to Figure 2. Figure 2A shows a plan view (from above) and Figure 2B shows a side view. In some particular examples, the switching device 208 may be implemented as a vacuum circuit breaker (VCB). However, it will be understood that the switching device may be any other type of device, as appropriate. For example, the device may be a load break switch.

[0024] The switching device 208 may optionally be enclosed within a housing 216. One or more switchgears 208 may be provided in combination to provide a switchgear 100b or other disconnect device of a desired size or capacity. The one or more switching devices 208 may be provided within a switching section (shown in dashed lines) of the housing 216.

[0025] The switching device 208 comprises a number of switching mechanisms 210 configured to connect and disconnect power from a load. Here, there are three switching mechanisms (210a, 210b, 210c), but there may be two or more than three switching mechanisms depending on the application of the switching device 108. In other words, any suitable number of switching mechanisms (any suitable type, e.g., mechanical, electromechanical, and / or semiconductor) may be used. The multiple switching mechanisms are arranged along the first axis 104 (having the same orientation as the horizontal axis of FIG. 1). In other words, the switching mechanisms are arranged in a depth orientation. Each switching mechanism 210 comprises a fixed contact 250 and a movable contact 252.

[0026] An actuation mechanism is provided for simultaneously actuating the multiple switching mechanisms. The actuation mechanism comprises a bridge 254 configured to move movable contacts of the multiple switching mechanisms. The actuation mechanism comprises a shaft 214 disposed along an axis of rotation 256. The axis of rotation 256 is parallel to the first axis 104. The shaft is configured to rotate about the axis of rotation 256. The shaft can be rotated or pivoted by a handle 240 or through any suitable mechanism.

[0027] The actuation mechanism also includes one or more force transmission mechanisms configured to convert torque from the rotation of the shaft into a linear force acting in a second direction 258 on the bridge 254. The second direction is perpendicular to the first axis 104. Here, the second direction is shown as being parallel to the axis 106. Movement of the bridge in the second direction 258 in response to the linear force brings the movable contact 252 into electrical contact with the fixed contact 250 to close the switching mechanism 210 and connect the power source to the load. The bridge 254 can carry the movable contact 252 or can be configured to drive the movable contact into electrical contact with the fixed contact to close the switching device 108 (on position). The bridge 254 can also move the movable contact out of electrical contact with the fixed contact to open the switching device (off position).

[0028] In this manner, the actuation mechanism is disposed with a depth orientation such that the alignment of the shaft is parallel to the alignment of the switching mechanism 210 along the first axis 104. In this manner, a more compact design having a smaller lateral or longitudinal (along axis 102) dimension can be provided. In other words, the depth alignment or orientation of the actuation mechanism can facilitate providing a more compact switching device.

[0029] In some examples, a switching device 100b having an actuation mechanism as described with reference to FIG. 2 is provided. The switching device includes a plurality of switching devices according to any of the above embodiments. Each switching device includes a plurality of poles, each pole being associated with a respective switching mechanism 210 of the switching device 208. In other words, each switching device 208 includes a plurality of poles and an actuation mechanism, each pole being associated with a respective switching mechanism 210 having a fixed contact and a movable contact, the actuation mechanism including a shaft 214. The shaft 214 is configured to rotate about a rotation axis to transmit a force input from the outside via the handle 240 to move the movable contact 252 to open or close the switching mechanism 210 of the respective switching device 208. The plurality of switching devices are arranged along a longitudinal axis (102) in the switching device 100b. The plurality of poles of each switching device are arranged along a first axis (104) perpendicular to the longitudinal axis. Each shaft 214 is arranged along a rotation axis parallel to the first axis 104. Thus, the depth actuation mechanism described herein can provide a compact opening and closing device.

[0030] 2, in some examples, each switching mechanism may be positioned or oriented such that the moving contact 252 is disposed between the shaft 214 and the fixed contact 250 along the second direction. In other words, the fixed contact 250 is offset from the shaft along the axis 106, and the moving contact is disposed between the fixed contact and the shaft. In some examples, one or more force transmission mechanisms are disposed between the shaft and the fixed contact along the second direction. In other words, the moving parts of the actuation mechanism are disposed between the fixed contact and the shaft, and each moving part is fixed in space along the axis 106.

[0031] Providing a vertical offset (an offset along the second direction 258) may reduce the lateral width (in the longitudinal direction 102) of the switching device 208. In other words, the location or orientation of the actuation mechanism and the switching mechanism along the axis 106 or the second direction may facilitate providing a more compact switching device.

[0032] The switching mechanism may be implemented in any suitable manner or may be of any suitable type, for example any suitable type of mechanical or electromechanical mechanism. The upper contact of the switching mechanism is a movable contact 252 that is moveable by the actuation mechanism in response to rotation of the shaft 214. The fixed contact of the switching mechanism may be fixed to the housing 216 or in any other suitable manner.

[0033] In some particular examples, each switching mechanism 110 is implemented as or comprises a vacuum interrupter (VI). In these examples, the bridge 254 is configured to drive a moving contact into electrical contact with a fixed contact. For example, the bridge can be coupled to one or more drive pins or rods (such as the drive rod 344 illustrated in FIG. 3A) associated with a vacuum interrupter such that movement of the bridge in the second direction 258 actuates the vacuum interrupter. The VI can be implemented as part of a VCB, i.e., vacuum circuit breaker. In a VCB, the act of switching on and closing the current-carrying contacts (e.g., moving or movable contacts) and the associated arc interruption are performed in a vacuum chamber in a breaker called a vacuum interrupter.

[0034] The upper contact of the vacuum interrupter VI is a movable contact 252 that is movable by the actuation mechanism in response to rotation of the shaft 214. The fixed contact of the vacuum interrupter VI may be fixed to the bottom plate of the housing 216 via a support plate (not shown). The housing of the VI covers the fixed and moving contacts and is bolted to the support plate. A post support formed of an insulating material (not shown) may be bolted between the support plate and the bottom plate to hold the support plate within the switching section of the housing 216. As described above, the moving contact moves within the VI housing in response to actuation / rotation of the shaft 214. In particular, the rotation of the shaft 214 actuates a drive pin / rod coupled to the bridge 254 of the actuation mechanism, pushing the moving contact in a second direction 258 away from the shaft 214 and opening the switching mechanism 210.

[0035] 3, a first exemplary implementation of one or more force transmission mechanisms configured to convert torque from rotation of the shaft (as described with reference to FIG. 2) into a linear force acting in a second direction 258 on the bridge 254. The bridge may be sandwiched between one or more plates 360 or may be at least partially enclosed within the one or more plates 360.

[0036] In this example, the one or more force transmission mechanisms include a four-bar linkage 330 configured to apply a linear force to move the bridge in the second direction 258. When the shaft 214 rotates, the four-bar linkage 330 is moved or pivoted toward the left side of FIG. 3A. As a result, the bar of the linkage moves from an angle to the horizontal (as shown in FIG. 3D) to perpendicular or nearly perpendicular to the horizontal (as shown in FIG. 3E), thereby increasing the vertical component of the bar length. The increase in bar length in the vertical direction (i.e., along the axis 106) moves the bridge 254 downward (in the second direction 258). The displacement d corresponds to the change in length of the vertical component of the bar length between the positions of FIG. 3D, 3E. As will be understood by one skilled in the art, the movement of the four-bar linkage can be further facilitated by the elastically deformable member 332 and the cam 336, or by any other suitable components. The elastically deformable member 332 is optionally a tension spring.

[0037] Such linkage 330 may be the same as or similar to the actuation mechanism of the existing switchgear 100a. In particular, the four-bar linkage is configured to apply a linear force to move the bridge in the second direction 258 in response to rotation of the shaft. In the existing device illustrated in FIG. 1A, direct actuation of the linkage by the shaft 214 is possible through rotation of the handle 240. However, changing the switching mechanism 108 from a widthwise orientation to a depthwise orientation (as in FIG. 1B) requires modification of the existing actuation mechanism.

[0038] 3 implementation, the one or more force transmission mechanisms include a secondary shaft 334 configured to rotate about a third axis perpendicular to both the first axis 102 and the second direction 258 (along axis 106). In other words, the secondary shaft 334 is configured to rotate about the third axis 102 (aligned with the longitudinal direction 102 in FIG. 1). The four-bar linkage 330 is configured to apply a linear force to move the bridge in the second direction in response to rotation of the secondary shaft 334. The coupling is configured to rotate the secondary shaft 334 in response to rotation of the shaft 214 to transfer torque from the rotation of the shaft to drive the four-bar linkage 330.

[0039] 3A and 3B show perspective and side views, respectively, of an example switching device 210 illustrating linkage 330, and FIG. 3C shows a schematic diagram of an example coupling. By providing a coupling in this manner, a compact switching device 208 can be provided with only minor modifications to existing actuation mechanisms. As a result, the user interface (e.g., handle 240 or other mechanism) and mode of operation can remain the same, reducing or eliminating the need for user / operator training courses.

[0040] Referring to FIG. 3, the coupling in this particular implementation comprises a bevel gear pair 340. The bevel gear pair transfers torque from the rotation of the shaft 214 from the axis of rotation (lateral) to the third axis 102 (longitudinal). This facilitates changing the orientation of the switching mechanism relative to the actuation mechanism, i.e., allows the actuation mechanism to be aligned with the switching mechanism. In some examples, the bevel gear pair is a 1:1 bevel gear pair, but any suitable gearing may be used. Bevel gears are most often used to transfer power at 90 degrees, i.e. at right angles. The axes of the two bevel gear shafts intersect, and the tooth bearing surfaces of the gears themselves are conically shaped. The bevel gears are most often mounted on shafts 90 degrees apart (here shafts 215, 346). However, any other suitable configuration for transferring torque from one axis to another perpendicular axis may be used instead of a bevel gear mechanism. For example, spiral gears or worm gears may be used.

[0041] The coupling further comprises a spur gear pair 342, where the bevel gear pair 340 and the spur gear pair 342 are rotatably connected by a shaft 346 extending parallel to the third axis 102. In some examples, the spur gear pair is a 1:1 spur gear pair, but any suitable gearing may be used. Any other suitable configuration for canceling the torque along the axis 106 may be used in place of the spur gear mechanism. The use of spur gears (or other mechanisms) allows the torque to be transmitted vertically (i.e., along the axis 106). By offsetting the axis 214 and the axis 334 in the up-down direction, the axis 214, 334 can be arranged one above the other. This can facilitate providing a more compact device. In other words, by arranging the shaft 214 and the secondary shaft 334 to overlap (so that they appear to intersect when viewed in a plan view, but do not actually touch), offsetting the shafts in the second direction 258 can provide a smaller, more compact switching device 108.

[0042] In some implementations, the switching device further comprises a latch 348 configured to hold the actuation mechanism in a fixed position when the switching mechanism is closed. For example, when the actuation mechanism pushes the bridge in the second direction 258 to close the switching mechanism 210, the latch 348 can engage and hold the actuation mechanism. In some examples, as described with reference to FIG. 3A, a latch portion 348a of the latch 348 is coupled to or otherwise disposed on the shaft 214. An engagement portion 348b of the latch is configured to engage the latch portion and hold the actuation mechanism (i.e., prevent the bridge from moving in a direction opposite the second direction 258) by preventing further rotation of the shaft 214. The engagement portion may be coupled to the housing 216 or may be disposed and / or fixed in any suitable manner to hold the actuation mechanism.

[0043] The latch 348 is further engageable by a user to release the actuation mechanism and open the switching mechanism. In other words, the user can push, depress or otherwise move the latch to allow the bridge to move in a direction opposite to the second direction, thereby allowing the switching mechanism 210 to open. In some examples, as described with reference to FIG. 3A, an engagement portion 348b of the latch is engageable by a user to release the actuation mechanism and open the switching mechanism. For example, the engagement portion may include a trigger or may be movable to allow the latch portion 348a to be released or disengaged. Releasing or disengaging the latch portion allows the shaft 214 to rotate about the axis of rotation, thereby allowing the switching mechanism to open.

[0044] In the particular example of FIG. 3A, the latch 348 holds the four-bar linkage in a left position where the bars of the linkage are vertical or nearly vertical to the horizontal, thereby increasing the vertical component of the bar length. As discussed above, increasing the bar length in the vertical direction (i.e., along axis 106) causes the bridge 254 to move downward (in the second direction 258). By holding the four-bar linkage 330 in this position, the bridge is also held in this downward position with the switching mechanism 110 closed. Engagement of the latch 348 by the user allows the four-bar linkage to pivot back toward the right in FIG. 3A, tilting the bars relative to the horizontal and shortening the vertical length component along axis 106 (thereby allowing the bridge 254 to move upward and open the switching mechanism).

[0045] The bevel gear and spur gear combination illustrated in FIG. 3 can facilitate reliable actuation of the switching mechanism 210 via the shaft 214 of the actuation mechanism, while aligning the shaft 214 with the rest of the actuation mechanism and the switching mechanism can make the entire actuation mechanism more compact. Thus, a smaller footprint can be achieved. These advantages are further amplified when the switching device 208 is implemented as part of the switchgear 100b, providing a more compact switchgear. Furthermore, as a result of the smaller footprint, the manufacturing costs of the entire switchgear can be reduced (less material, smaller housing), facilitating the provision of a robust and cost-effective switchgear. In addition, since the user interface (i.e., the handle 240) remains the same as the existing switchgear 110a product, there may be no need to provide additional user / operator training courses.

[0046] With particular reference now to FIG. 4 , a second exemplary implementation of one or more force transmission mechanisms configured to convert torque from rotation of the shaft (as described with reference to FIG. 2 ) into a linear force acting in a second direction 258 on the bridge 254 will be described.

[0047] 4, which shows a perspective view of one example of switching device 210 representative of a force transmitting mechanism, the one or more force transmitting mechanisms include one or more cams 402 disposed on shaft 214 and one or more corresponding cam followers 404 disposed on bridge 254. As shaft 214 rotates about its axis of rotation, cams 402 rotate with the shaft. Cams 402 are shaped to exert a force on cam followers 404 as shaft 214 rotates, which in turn moves bridge 254 downward (in second direction 258).

[0048] Although not shown here, a latch may be provided as described above with respect to Figure 3. For example, when the cam 402 and cam follower 404 push the bridge in the second direction 258 to close the switching mechanism 210, a latch may engage to hold the actuating mechanism and prevent further rotation of the shaft 214. Engagement of the latch by a user rotates the cam 402, which is shaped to allow the shaft 214 to continue rotating and subsequently allow the bridge 254 to move upward again (after closing of the switching mechanism). The cam 402 may be shaped to facilitate fast movement of the bridge and, therefore, fast opening of the switching mechanism, facilitating rapid interruption of the circuit through the switching device 208.

[0049] With further reference to FIG. 5, FIG. 5A shows a perspective view of one example of the switching device 210 of FIG. 4, and FIG. 5B shows a schematic diagram of the force transmission mechanism of this example.

[0050] In this example, the shaft 214 includes an offset portion 214a that extends parallel to but is offset from the axis of rotation 256 of the shaft 214. The offset portion 214 can be joined or coupled to the remainder of the shaft 214 (i.e., the main portion of the shaft that is actuated by the user via the handle 240) by an S-bend. In other examples, the offset portion 214a is formed from the shaft 214 by introducing or creating an S-bend.

[0051] The switching device 210 further comprises an elastically deformable member 506 coupled to the offset portion 214a of the shaft 214. Rotation of the shaft 214 about the axis of rotation 256 in response to user input causes deformation of the elastically deformable member 506. The elastically deformable member 506 may be coupled to the housing 216 at the other end or may be positioned and / or fixed in any suitable manner to facilitate deformation of the member 506 as the shaft 214 rotates. In this example, the elastically deformable member is configured to hinge or rotate about a hinge point 508 (located at the end of the member 506 opposite that coupled to the offset portion 214a), although any other suitable fixed or coupling point 508 may be used.

[0052] In this example, the elastically deformable member is a tension spring. In other words, the offset portion 214a is offset from the axis of rotation 256, which causes the elastically deformable member to be pulled or stretched in the second direction 258. When the shaft 214 rotates 180 degrees from the position shown in FIG. 5A (i.e., the axis of rotation 256 extends between the coupling point 508 of the member 506 and the offset portion 214a), the member 506 will be maximally stretched. The restoring force due to the deformation (i.e., stretching) of the deformed elastically deformable member 506 causes further rotation of the shaft 214 about the axis of rotation. This further rotation of the shaft can be independent of user input. In other words, the offset portion 214a and the elastically deformable member 506 act to provide a toggle point for the actuation mechanism, after which the closure of the switching mechanism is independent of the user. This mechanism will be explained in more detail with reference to FIG. 6.

[0053] It will be appreciated that in other examples, the member 506 may be any other suitable component. For example, a compression spring may be used, with the elastically deformable member configured such that maximum compression occurs in the position shown in FIG. 5A. A restoring force then acts to push the offset portion 214a away from the elastically deformable member 506, driving the shaft 214 independent of user input. However, any other elastically deformable member (elastically deformable by form and / or function) may be used.

[0054] 6, three distinct positions of shaft 214 are shown, corresponding to different angles of rotation of shaft 214 about axis of rotation 256. As described above, a user can provide an input motion to the actuation mechanism via shaft 214. An operator uses handle 240 (or other input means) to rotate shaft 214 (from 0 degrees to 180 degrees) about axis of rotation 256. Position 1 is an exemplary position within this range, with the cam illustratively oriented 15 degrees below horizontal. In this example, the shaft (and cam) rotates in a clockwise direction about the axis of rotation.

[0055] At or just past 180 degrees (as shown in position 2), the elastically deformable member 506 (here a tension spring) is maximally deformed. This is the toggle point, and before 180 degrees of rotation, the restoring force from the tension spring 506 rotates the shaft 214 in the opposite direction (i.e., opposite the direction of user rotation). After 180 degrees, the user can release the handle, and the resulting restoring force continues to rotate the shaft 214 in the same rotational direction. In other words, the restoring force of the deformed (stretched) spring 506 rotates the shaft (and cam) in a clockwise direction. The cam is illustratively oriented here at 165 degrees.

[0056] In position 3, the cam 402 and cam follower 404 pair acts to convert torque from the rotation of the main shaft into motion along axis 106. In particular, cam 402 is shaped to cause a displacement or vertical movement of bridge 254 in second direction 258. In this example, the vertical displacement of bridge 254 is indicated by distance d. This displacement d is sufficient to close the switching mechanism. In this position, the elastically deformable member is allowed to become undeformed and there is no restoring force applied to cause rotation of shaft 214.

[0057] If provided, a latch can latch the shaft 214 in this position to prevent further rotation of the shaft 214 (and thus prevent accidental or unintended opening of the switching mechanism). Additionally or alternatively, the cam and / or cam follower may be shaped to prevent further rotation of the shaft independent of user input. For example, one or more recesses, detents, or protrusions may be used to engage the cam and cam follower, thereby requiring a threshold input torque to be applied through the shaft 214 to open the switching mechanism 210.

[0058] The cam and cam follower configuration illustrated in FIGS. 4-6 can facilitate reliable actuation of the switching mechanism 210 via the shaft 214 of the actuation mechanism, while aligning the shaft 214 with the rest of the actuation mechanism and the switching mechanism can make the entire actuation mechanism more compact. Thus, a smaller footprint can be achieved. These advantages are further amplified when the switching device 208 is implemented as part of the switchgear 100b, providing a more compact switchgear. Furthermore, as a result of the smaller footprint, the manufacturing costs of the entire switchgear can be reduced (less material, smaller housing), facilitating the provision of a robust and cost-effective switchgear. In addition, since the user interface (i.e., the handle 240) remains the same as the existing switchgear 110a product, it may not be necessary to provide additional user / operator training courses. Assembly time and / or costs can also be reduced by using the cam and cam follower configuration, since the force transmission mechanism is less complex than other mechanisms and requires fewer components.

[0059] It should be understood that the foregoing embodiments should not be construed as limiting, and that other variations, modifications, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art and are intended to be encompassed by the claims unless expressly excluded by the language of the claims.

[0060] Moreover, the disclosure of this application is to be understood to include any novel feature or any novel combination of features explicitly or implicitly disclosed herein, or in any generalization thereof, and the claims may be construed to cover any such feature and / or combination of such features derived therefrom.

Claims

1. a plurality of switching mechanisms (210) arranged along a first axis (104), each of which has a fixed contact (250) and a movable contact (252), and which are configured to connect and disconnect a power source from a load; an actuation mechanism for simultaneously actuating the plurality of switching mechanisms; Equipped with The actuation mechanism includes: a bridge (254) configured to move the movable contacts of the plurality of switching mechanisms; a shaft (214) disposed along a rotation axis parallel to the first axis and configured to rotate about the rotation axis; one or more force transmission mechanisms configured to convert torque from rotation of the shaft into a linear force acting in a second direction (258) on the bridge; Equipped with the second direction is perpendicular to the first axis, and movement of the bridge in the second direction in response to the linear force causes the movable contact to come into electrical contact with the fixed contact to close the switching mechanism and connect the power source to the load; The one or more force transmission mechanisms include: a secondary shaft (334) configured to rotate about a third axis (106) perpendicular to both the first axis and the second direction; a four-bar linkage (330) configured to apply the linear force to move the bridge in the second direction in response to rotation of the secondary shaft; a coupling configured to rotate the secondary shaft in response to rotation of the shaft so as to transfer torque from rotation of the shaft to drive the four-bar linkage; Equipped with A switching device (208).

2. The device of claim 1 , wherein for each switching mechanism, the movable contact is disposed between the shaft and the fixed contact along the second direction.

3. The device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more force transmitting mechanisms are disposed between the shaft and the fixed contact along the second direction.

4. The device of claim 1 , wherein the one or more force transmission mechanisms are coupled to the shaft.

5. The device of claim 1 , wherein each switching mechanism comprises a vacuum interrupter.

6. The device of claim 5 , wherein the coupling includes a bevel gear pair (340).

7. The device of claim 6 , wherein the bevel gear pair is a 1:1 bevel gear pair.

8. 7. The device of claim 6, wherein the coupling further comprises a spur gear pair (342), the bevel gear pair and the spur gear pair being rotatably connected by a shaft extending parallel to the third axis.

9. 9. The device of claim 8, wherein the spur gear pair is a 1:1 spur gear pair.

10. The device of claim 8 , wherein the shaft and the secondary shaft overlap but are offset along the second direction.

11. 2. The device of claim 1, wherein the one or more force transmitting mechanisms comprise one or more cams (402) disposed on the shaft and one or more corresponding cam followers (404) disposed on the bridge.

12. the shaft includes an offset portion (214a) extending parallel to but offset from the axis of rotation of the shaft; The device comprises: a resiliently deformable member (506) coupled to the offset portion of the shaft; Rotation of the shaft about the axis of rotation in response to a user input causes deformation of the elastically deformable member, and a restoring force due to deformation of the deformed elastically deformable member causes further rotation of the shaft about the axis of rotation independent of the user input. The device of claim 11.

13. The device of claim 12, wherein the elastically deformable member is a tension spring.

14. 10. The device of claim 1, further comprising a latch configured to hold the actuation mechanism when the switching mechanism is closed, the latch being engageable by a user to release the actuation mechanism and open the switching mechanism.

15. A switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 14, each said switching device comprising a plurality of poles, each said pole being associated with a respective switching mechanism of said switching device; An opening and closing device (100b).

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