Opening and closing device structure

Abstract

To provide a switch device having a small installation area, high reliability, and a small size in an optimal predetermined device specification or a use.SOLUTION: A switch device comprises a plurality of switchgear devices constructed so as to cut an electric power supply from a load. Each switchgear device comprises: a plurality of poles of which each pole is associated to each switch having a fixing contact and a movable contact; and an operation mechanism having a shaft. The shaft is rotated and transmits an external input, moves the movable contact, and switches a switch of the switchgear device. The plurality of switchgear devices are arranged along a first axis. The plurality of poles of each switchgear device is arranged along a second axis that is vertical to the first axis. Each shaft is vertically arranged to the first axis, and rotates a circumference of the rotational axis that is parallel to the second axis.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2A

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present application relates to a switchgear structure, and in particular to a multi-pole multi-way switchgear having respective poles of each switching device of the switchgear arranged in a depthwise orientation. [Background technology]

[0002] Switchgear is a switching mechanism used to control and protect electrical equipment, such as equipment operated by utilities, commercial building owners, and operators of distributed renewable generation assets such as solar farms and wind turbines. Such switchgear includes a variety of medium-voltage devices (e.g., devices rated at 12 kV or 24 kV) for various applications, such as ring main units (RMUs).

[0003] It is desirable to provide a reliable, compact switchgear with a small footprint for any given equipment specification or application. It is also desirable to provide a grounding disconnect switch (or disconnector and grounding switch) with three positions—on, off (or isolating), and grounding—to facilitate field testing of cable integrity and improve ease of switchgear maintenance. It is particularly desirable to combine a three-position disconnector and grounding switch with a compact switchgear. Summary of the Invention

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

[0005] Disclosed herein is a switchgear including a plurality of switching devices configured to disconnect a power source from a load. Each switching device includes a plurality of poles, each pole associated with a respective switch having a fixed contact and a movable contact, and an actuation mechanism including a shaft. The shaft is configured to rotate to transmit an external input and move the movable contact to open or close the switch of the switching device. The plurality of switching devices are arranged along a first axis, and the plurality of poles of each switching device are arranged along respective second axes perpendicular to the first axis. Each shaft is configured to rotate about an axis of rotation perpendicular to the first axis and parallel to the second axis. This depth-wise switchgear structure allows for a reduced width of the switchgear, thus providing a more compact switchgear with a smaller footprint.

[0006] In some examples, the switchgear further comprises a plurality of disconnectors and grounding switches, each associated with a respective one of the plurality of poles, each having a disconnector blade pivotable about a first end of the disconnector blade between three different positions. The three positions include a first position in which the disconnector and grounding switches are closed and the power source is connected to the load through the disconnector blade, a second, isolation position in which the disconnector and grounding switches are 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 the ground contact. The grounding disconnect switch is a three-position disconnector and grounding switch, or 3PS.

[0007] When a three-position disconnector and earthing switch 3PS is provided in combination with the switchgear structure described above, a reliable device can be provided that has a small footprint that can be more easily tested in the field (improving ease of maintenance). In particular, this structure can help to enable the width of the switchgear product to be reduced, providing a more compact switchgear while still allowing the provision of a three-position disconnector and earthing switch.

[0008] In some examples, the opening and closing apparatus further comprises a housing having first and second side walls, the opening and closing device being disposed along the first axis between the first and second side walls of the housing.

[0009] Optionally, a first end of each disconnector blade is pivotally coupled to a respective switch, and each disconnector blade is configured to rotate about a pivot axis from a first position to a second position, the rotation being toward the second side wall of the housing.

[0010] In some examples, the second sidewall includes an end insulator and / or insulating sheet configured to contact a second end of a disconnector blade of a pole disposed proximate to the second sidewall when the disconnector blade is in the second position. In some examples, the second sidewall includes two shields, each of which includes a metal plate covered with an insulating material, and when the disconnector blade of a pole disposed proximate to the second sidewall is in the second position, the second end of the disconnector blade is disposed between the two shields. The presence of the insulating material or sheet can act as an obstacle to aid in breaking down the current path even without physical contact. This can help avoid insulation breakdown, thereby improving insulation performance.

[0011] In some examples, the switchgear further comprises a flexible link electrically connecting a first end of each disconnector blade to the movable contact, thereby facilitating movement of the disconnector blade. In some examples, each disconnector blade is operated by a four-bar crank rocker mechanism. Optionally, each disconnector and earthing switch is disposed between the respective switch and the shaft along a respective third axis perpendicular to the first and second axes.

[0012] In some examples, the plane in which the disconnector blades rotate is offset from the axis of motion of the respective switches. This offset can facilitate greater movement of the disconnector blades of the disconnector and earthing switch, which facilitates improving the clearance between the first, second, and third positions of the disconnector blades, thus improving insulation performance.

[0013] In some example implementations, the switchgear further comprises a plurality of busbar assemblies, each busbar assembly comprising a plurality of main busbars and a plurality of branch busbars arranged alternately along a first axis, each main busbar extending parallel to the first axis and electrically connecting corresponding poles of adjacent switching devices, and when the disconnector blades are in the first position, a second end of each disconnector blade is electrically connected to a respective branch busbar, and each branch busbar is electrically coupled to a respective main busbar to provide a conductive path between adjacent switching devices.

[0014] Optionally, each branch busbar has part-balled ends, which may help to reduce end effects. Optionally, each of the plurality of busbar assemblies is insulated at either end.

[0015] In some examples, each respective switch includes a vacuum interrupter, a movable contact of the vacuum interrupter movable by the actuation mechanism and disposed between a fixed contact of the vacuum interrupter and a shaft of the actuation mechanism.

[0016] In some examples, the switchgear is a three-way switchgear, and the plurality of switchgear devices include a first switchgear device, a second switchgear device, and a third switchgear device, each of the first, second, and third switchgear devices including three poles.

[0017] In some specific exemplary implementations, the first switching device is a first load break switch LBS, the second switching device is a second load break switch LBS, and the third switching device is a vacuum circuit breaker VCB. An insulating material / sheet may be provided within the enclosure of the VCB, which may be formed in part by the second side wall of the enclosure. However, any other type and combination of switches or switching devices may be used.

[0018] In some examples, the disconnectors and grounding switches are three-position switches, or 3PS. In some specific implementations, the 3PS are off-load 3PS switches. In some implementations, one off-load 3-position disconnector and grounding switch is in series with a vacuum circuit breaker VCB (an exemplary implementation of a switching device), and two off-load 3PS are in series with respective load break switches LBS (another exemplary implementation of a switching device).

[0019] Optionally, the switchgear further comprises a plurality of disconnectors and grounding switches, each disconnector and grounding switch associated with a respective one of the plurality of poles, each disconnector and grounding switch having a disconnector blade pivotable about a first end of the disconnector blade between two or more different positions, the two or more positions including a first position in which the disconnector and grounding switches are closed and the power source is connected to the load through the disconnector blade, and a second position in which the power source is disconnected from the load and a second end of the disconnector blade is electrically connected to the ground contact, which may be implemented as a two-position ground disconnect switch.

[0020] In some examples, the two or more positions further include a third, isolation position in which the disconnector and grounding switch are open and the power source is disconnected from the load. In some examples, the disconnector and grounding switch (also called a ground disconnect switch) is a 3PS switch.

[0021] Also disclosed herein is a busbar assembly including a plurality of cylindrical main busbars, each including an inner bore extending through the length of the main busbar; a plurality of branch busbars, each including a first end including an aperture and a second end including a spherical portion; and a threaded rod extending through the inner bore of each main busbar and the aperture of each branch busbar. The threaded rod extends along a first direction between the first end and the second end. The plurality of main busbars and the plurality of branch busbars are alternately arranged on the threaded rod along the first direction. In some examples, each main busbar includes an outer insulating sleeve collinear with the inner bore.

[0022] Also disclosed herein is a switchgear including a busbar assembly. The switchgear further includes a housing including first and second sidewalls offset along a first direction, the first sidewall including a first insulating mount configured to threadably engage a first end of a threaded rod, and the second sidewall including a second insulating mount configured to threadably engage a second end of the threaded rod. In some examples, the first insulating mount is an insulating bushing. In some examples, the second insulating mount is an epoxy insulator.

[0023] Any of the features or examples described above may be combined in any suitable combination, for example, a busbar arrangement feature may be combined with a switchgear arrangement feature, and vice versa. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] 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 depth 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 depth switchgear structure as described herein. [Figure 2A] FIG. 2A shows a perspective 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 perspective 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 3A] FIG. 3A shows a front view of the switching arrangement of FIG. 2A, and FIG. 3B shows a detailed view of each pole of the switching device of FIG. 3A. [Figure 3B] FIG. 3A shows a front view of the switching arrangement of FIG. 2A, and FIG. 3B shows a detailed view of each pole of the switching device of FIG. 3A. [Figure 4A] Three positions of an exemplary disconnector and grounding switch are shown: Figure 4A shows a first ON position, Figure 4B shows a second OFF or isolation position, and Figure 4C shows a third GROUND position. [Figure 4B] Three positions of an exemplary disconnector and grounding switch are shown: Figure 4A shows a first ON position, Figure 4B shows a second OFF or isolation position, and Figure 4C shows a third GROUND position. [Figure 4C] Three positions of an exemplary disconnector and grounding switch are shown: Figure 4A shows a first ON position, Figure 4B shows a second OFF or isolation position, and Figure 4C shows a third GROUND position. [Figure 5A] Figure 5A shows a side and perspective view of the pole switch and associated disconnector and earthing switch, and Figure 5B shows the clearance between the disconnector blades and both the branch busbar and earth contacts in the second position of Figure 4B. [Figure 5B] Figure 5A shows a side and perspective view of the pole switch and associated disconnector and earthing switch, and Figure 5B shows the clearance between the disconnector blades and both the branch busbar and earth contacts in the second position of Figure 4B. [Figure 6A] 6A, 6B and 6C show different isolation mechanisms. [Figure 6B] 6A, 6B and 6C show different isolation mechanisms. [Figure 6C]6A, 6B and 6C show different isolation mechanisms. [Figure 7A] 7A and 7B show embodiments of a busbar assembly, where Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the busbar assembly, Figure 7B shows the busbar assembly in place in a switchgear device, and Figure 7C shows a branch busbar. [Figure 7B] 7A and 7B show embodiments of a busbar assembly, where Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the busbar assembly, Figure 7B shows the busbar assembly in place in a switchgear device, and Figure 7C shows a branch busbar. [Figure 7C] 7A and 7B show embodiments of a busbar assembly, where Figure 7A shows a perspective view of the busbar assembly, Figure 7B shows the busbar assembly in place in a switchgear device, and Figure 7C shows a branch busbar. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 shows a top view of an exemplary switching device. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Referring to the schematic diagram of Figure 1A, an existing switchgear structure is shown in plan view (top down). This exemplary switchgear is a three-way, three-phase (or three-pole) device with a two-position grounding disconnect switch (also referred to as a disconnector and a grounding switch) that has two positions (on, ground). The actual disconnector and grounding switch, or grounding disconnect switch, are not shown. The switchgear has multiple switching devices.

[0026] Each switching device of a switchgear (here, the switchgear is shown as a combination of two load break switches LBS and one vacuum circuit breaker VCB) is arranged in a panel along a longitudinal direction 102 (or first axis 102), with the phases / pole (L1, L2, L3) of each switching device also arranged along the longitudinal direction. This arrangement is referred to herein as a "longitudinal" or "widthwise" orientation. In one particular example of existing switchgear, such a longitudinal / widthwise configuration provides a width w (along the longitudinal direction 102) of 1100 mm and a depth d (along a widthwise direction 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction) of 600 mm. However, it will be understood that the switchgear may have other dimensions and may include any suitable combination of switch types.

[0027] 1B, a plan view (top down) of a novel switchgear structure in accordance with the present invention is shown. This exemplary switchgear 100 is a three-way, three-phase (or three-pole) device with a three-position ground disconnect switch (also referred to as a disconnector and grounding switch) having three positions (on, off or isolation, ground). The actual ground disconnect switch, or disconnector and grounding switch, are not shown.

[0028] Although each switching device (here, the switchgear is shown as a combination of two load break switches LBS and one vacuum circuit breaker VCB) is arranged within the panel along the longitudinal direction 102, the phases / poles 210 (210a, 210b, 210c) of each switching device 208 (208a, 208b, 208c) are not arranged within the panel along the longitudinal direction. In this particular example, the LBSs 208a, 208b, and VCBs 208c are arranged along the lateral direction 104 (the poles of each switch are arranged along their respective second axes 104). This arrangement is referred to herein as a "lateral" or "depth" orientation. In one particular example of the proposed switchgear, such a lateral / depth structure provides a width w (along the longitudinal direction 102) of 900 mm and a depth d (along the lateral direction 104 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 102) of 780 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 may be provided with multiple switching devices, each with multiple poles, arranged according to the structure of FIG. 1B.

[0029] In other words, the switchgear arrangement of Figure 1B can generally be implemented for any switchgear comprising multiple switching devices configured to disconnect a power source from a load. Each switching device comprises multiple poles, each pole associated with a respective switch having a fixed contact and a movable contact, and the actuation mechanism comprises a shaft. The shaft is configured to rotate to transmit an external input to move the movable contact and open or close the switch of the respective switching device. The multiple switching devices are arranged along a first axis (102). The multiple poles of each switching device are arranged along respective second axes (104) perpendicular to the first axis. Each shaft is arranged perpendicular to the first axis and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the second axis.

[0030] The novel switchgear structure shown in Figure 1B allows the width of the switchgear product to be reduced, providing a more compact switchgear while still allowing for the provision of a three-position earthing disconnect switch (three-position disconnector and earthing switch). When the three-position disconnector and earthing switch are provided in the switchgear in combination with the above-described structure, a reliable device with a small footprint can be provided that can be more easily tested in the field (improving ease of maintenance).

[0031] The general switchgear structure and its associated advantages are described in more detail below with reference to details of exemplary implementations of the switchgear.

[0032] 2A and 2B, perspective and side views of a switchgear 200 are shown. The example of FIGS. 2A and 2B is a three-way switchgear having three switching devices 208, namely, a first switching device 208a, a second switching device 208b, and a third switching device 208c. In this particular exemplary implementation, the switchgear has a combination of two load break switches LBS 208-a, 208-b and one vacuum circuit breaker VCB-208c with an off-load 3PS (three-position disconnect switch and grounding switch). However, the switchgear is not limited to this exemplary implementation, and any suitable combination of switching devices and grounding disconnect switches may be used.

[0033] The opening and closing devices are provided within a housing 216, which is generally divided by dashed lines in Figure 2A. Each of the first, second, and third opening and closing devices includes three poles 210a, 210b, 210c arranged in the depth direction or lateral direction 104 (as in Figure 1B).

[0034] Each of the plurality of poles 210 is associated with a respective switch 212 having a fixed contact and a movable contact, and an actuation mechanism including a shaft 214. The shaft is configured to rotate to transmit an external input from outside the housing 216, moving the movable contact to open or close the switch of the pole 210 of the opening / closing device 208. The opening / closing devices 208 are arranged along a first axis (102), and the plurality of poles 210 of each opening / closing device are arranged along a respective second axis (104) perpendicular to the first axis. Each shaft 214 is arranged perpendicular to the first axis and configured to rotate about an axis of rotation parallel to the second axis 104 in response to user engagement or interaction. One shaft 214 drives all of the poles 210 of one opening / closing device 208a.

[0035] The housing has a first sidewall 216a (portions of the first sidewall that surround the opening and closing components are not shown) and a second sidewall 216b. The opening and closing device 208 is disposed along the first axis 102 between the first sidewall 216a and the second sidewall 216b of the housing 216.

[0036] 3 (FIGS. 3A, 3B) and 5A, the switchgear 200 (which is an exemplary implementation of the switchgear 100) also includes a plurality of disconnectors and grounding switches 330, each associated with a respective one of the plurality of poles 210. Each disconnector and grounding switch has a disconnector blade 332 pivotally connected to an associated switch at a first end 342. The disconnector blade is arranged to pivot at this first end between three different positions, as further shown in FIG.

[0037] Each disconnector and earthing switch 330 is disposed between a respective switch 212 (formed of a movable contact and a fixed contact) and a shaft 214 along a respective third axis 106 (in series with the switch 212) perpendicular to the first and second axes. The switches 212 are operated / actuated by a drive rod 344 connected to the shaft 214 to convert rotation of the shaft 214 in response to an external input into movement of the movable contact along the third axis 106, also referred to herein as the operating axis. The movable contact is movable by the drive rod 344 of the operating mechanism and is disposed between the fixed contact and the shaft 214 of the operating mechanism.

[0038] In some examples, the switch 212 is implemented as or comprises a vacuum interrupter (or VI). The VI can be implemented as part of a VCB or other switching device, or as part of any other type of circuit breaker (such as the LBS described above). The upper contact of the vacuum interrupter VI is a movable contact that is movable by an actuation mechanism in response to rotation of the shaft 214. Referring to FIG. 3 , the fixed contact of the vacuum interrupter VI is fixed to the bottom plate 216c of the housing 216 via a support plate (not shown). The bottom plate 216c and the first and second side walls 216a, 216b at least partially define a switching compartment of the switchgear 100, 200. While the switching compartment described herein is air-insulated, any other insulating medium (e.g., vacuum, pressurized air, SF6 (sulfur hexafluoride) or other gaseous dielectric medium, or inert gas) that meets the necessary dielectric / thermal requirements can be provided within the switching compartment.

[0039] The VI housing covers the fixed and moving contacts and is bolted to the support plate. Post supports (not shown) formed of insulating material may be bolted between the support plate and bottom plate 216c to hold the support plate within the switching compartment of housing 216. In this particular example, the VI is attached to bushing 350, which is bolted to bottom plate 216c and secured to the support plate with epoxy.

[0040] The VI housing acts as a support for a hinge or pivot point at a first end 342 of the disconnector blades 332 (see, for example, FIG. 3B). The first end of each disconnector blade is pivotally coupled to a respective switch 212. The first end of the disconnector blade 342 may be pivotally coupled to the switch between the movable contact and the shaft 214. In this particular example, the first end of the disconnector blade 342 is pivotally coupled to the top of the VI housing, which encloses the fixed and movable contacts of the switch.

[0041] A metal shield (not shown) may be provided within the VI housing and positioned between the moving contact and the first end of the disconnector blade. The metal shield acts to help shield the disconnector blade and hinge / pivotable connection from any electric fields within the vacuum interrupter. As described above, the moving contact moves within the VI housing in response to actuation / rotation of shaft 214. In particular, rotation of shaft 214 actuates drive rod 344 of the actuation mechanism, pulling the moving contact along the actuation axis toward shaft 214 and opening switch 212.

[0042] In the following examples, the disconnectors and grounding switches are described with reference to 3PS disconnectors and grounding switches. However, it will be understood that the described switchgear structure can be implemented without any disconnectors and grounding switches or with any disconnectors and grounding switches having two or more positions. With reference to Figures 3B and 4A, the disconnector blade 332 is placed in a first position in which the 3PS disconnectors and grounding switches are closed and ground is connected to the load through the disconnector blade (via a busbar, as further described below). This current path is further illustrated in Figure 3B. In this first position, current flows through the switchgear 200 via the fixed and movable contacts and the disconnector blade. The switchgear 200 further includes a flexible link 340 electrically connecting a first end 342 of each disconnector blade to its respective movable contact. The flexible link 340 is used to facilitate movement of the movable contact relative to a fixed hinge / pivot point of the disconnector blade 332 to enable actuation of the switch 212 .

[0043] In response to user actuation of the direct shutoff mechanism 220 (shown in FIG. 2B ), the disconnector blade is moved from a first position to a second position shown in FIG. 4B . The direct shutoff mechanism 220 includes a second shaft and a second actuation mechanism operated by rotation of the second shaft. A user can rotate the second shaft by turning or rotating an external handle, and the second actuation mechanism rotates in response to the rotation of the shaft. In this example, the second actuation mechanism is a four-bar crank rocker mechanism 348, but any suitable actuation / drive mechanism can be used. In particular, in response to rotation of the second shaft of the direct shutoff mechanism 220, the disconnector blade is configured to rotate about a pivot axis from a first position to a second position, the rotation being toward the second sidewall 216b of the housing. In some examples, the second sidewall forms part of the switching device 208c, which may be a vacuum circuit breaker (VCB). In other words, the second side wall may form part of the enclosure of the VCB.

[0044] The operation of the direct interruption mechanism 220 may depend on the specific combination of the switching device, the disconnector, and the earthing switch. In this particular example, the disconnector and earthing switch are off-load 3PSs arranged in series with the switch 212 and implemented as part of the VCB (switching device). The 3PS can only operate when the VCB is in the open position, and the interlocking mechanism is provided accordingly. The 3PS direct interruption mechanism 220 interlocks with the VCB mechanism to ensure that the switchgear operates in accordance with the standard mechanical interlocking requirements of the switchgear. An example of operation is shown below. 1. The VCB can only open or close (via shaft 214) when the 3PS is in exactly one of the on / off / ground positions. 2. When the 3PS is in an intermediate position (i.e., between the on / off / ground positions), the VCB cannot open or close. 3. When the VCB is closed, the 3PS cannot be operated via the direct shutoff mechanism 220. 4. When the VCB is open, the 3PS can only be moved from one position to another adjacent position, i.e., from ON to OFF (from the first position to the second position) or from OFF to ground (from the second position to the third position) and vice versa. 5. The 3PS cannot be moved directly from ON to ground or from ground to ON (i.e., between the first and third positions) in one motion. Instead, the operator or user must go through a direct shutoff mechanism to move the 3PS from ON to OFF in one motion, and then from OFF to ground in a second motion.

[0045] 4B , the 3PS disconnector and grounding switch are open and power is disconnected from the load (the current path between the load and ground through the disconnector blade 332 is interrupted). This second intermediate position is an isolation position in which the disconnector and grounding switch are "off" or isolated. The disconnector blade 332 can be moved to this off or isolated position without corresponding actuation of the switch 212 of the switchgear switching device 210 (i.e., independent of rotation of the shaft 214), and as mentioned above, in some implementations (such as when the disconnector and grounding switch are off-load 3PS), this operation relies on the switching device (e.g., VCB) being in an open state.

[0046] In response to further user actuation of the second shaft of the direct disconnect mechanism 220 in the same rotational direction, the disconnector blade is moved from the second position to the third position shown in FIG. 4C . In particular, the disconnector blade is configured to rotate about the pivot axis from the second position to the third position, with the rotation again toward the second side wall 216b of the housing. In the third position, the power source is disconnected from the load, and the second end 334 of the disconnector blade is electrically connected to the ground contact 336. The disconnector blade 332 can be moved to this ground position without corresponding actuation of the switch 212 of the switchgear switching device 210 (i.e., independent of rotation of the shaft 214), and as mentioned above, in some implementations (such as when the disconnector and grounding switch are off-load 3PS), this operation relies on the switching device (e.g., VCB) being in an open state.

[0047] Thus, the disconnector and grounding switch 330 can be actuated or controlled via the mechanism 220 independently of the shaft 214, which controls or actuates the movable contact of the switch. In the example described above, the disconnector blade 332 is coupled to a stationary component (the housing of the VI) and is therefore isolated from the actuation of the switch 212. In other words, actuation of the switchgear 100, 200 via the shaft 214 does not actuate the disconnector and grounding switch 330. However, it will be appreciated that in other examples, the second actuation mechanism (of the disconnector and grounding switch) can be configured such that when the movable contact is opened by the shaft 214 to disconnect the power source from the load, the disconnector blade 332 of the disconnector and grounding switch correspondingly moves to a third, grounded position. In this manner, the current path through each respective switch 212 of the switchgear 100, 200 is automatically opened in two different positions when the switch 212 is opened. In another example, the interlock mechanism can prevent activation of the direct shutoff mechanism 220 when the opening and closing device is open.

[0048] 5A, the plane in which the disconnector blade 332 rotates (shown in side view and labeled 108) is offset from this axis of operation 106 of the respective switch by an offset d. This offset allows a respective secondary actuation mechanism to be positioned next to each switch 212 without interfering with the actuation of the drive rod 344.

[0049] In some implementations, each disconnector and grounding switch includes two or more disconnector blades. Using two disconnector blades creates two parallel paths for current flow, which can help improve thermal performance. In other examples, each disconnector and grounding switch includes a single disconnector blade. When there are two blades, the offset d also allows a compression spring to be connected to and disposed between the two blades. The compression spring acts to pull both disconnector blades inward toward each other. When the disconnector blade moves to the on or ground position and engages the on or ground contact, the two blades can move outward around the contact due to either the size / shape of the contact or the repulsive force generated, for example, during a short-circuit test. The compression spring is positioned to generate an inward force that helps pull the blades toward each other against the repulsive force, so that the blades maintain good electrical contact with one contact and the ground contact. Therefore, electrical contact can be improved.

[0050] Additionally, the offset can facilitate a greater degree of movement of the disconnector blades of the disconnector and earthing switch, which facilitates improved clearance between the first, second and third positions of the disconnector blades shown in FIG. 4.

[0051] For example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the offset allows the total angle of rotation of the disconnector blades of each switch 212 to be greater than 90 degrees. In some particular examples, theta_1 is between 50 and 80 degrees, optionally between 55 and 75 degrees, optionally between 60 and 70 degrees, and optionally about 63 degrees. In some particular examples, theta_2 is between 30 and 60 degrees, optionally between 35 and 55 degrees, optionally between 40 and 50 degrees, and optionally about 48 degrees. In some particular examples, the clearance a between the first "on" position and the second "off" or isolation position is between 90 and 140 mm, optionally between 100 and 130 mm, optionally between 110 and 120 mm, and optionally about 113 mm. In some particular examples, the clearance b between the second "on" or isolation position and the third "off" or grounded position is between 60 and 110 mm, optionally between 70 and 100 mm, optionally between 80 and 90 mm, and optionally about 85 mm. However, it will be understood that the particular rotation angles theta_1, theta_2 and the particular clearances a, b will depend on the particular configuration and dimensions of the switchgear 100, 200.

[0052] Thus, offsetting the planes of rotation of the disconnector blade 332 and the operating axis 106 facilitates the use of the three-position disconnector and earthing switch 330 (or 3PS) in compact switchgear 100, 200. Thus, by using the three-position disconnector and earthing switch 3PS provided herein, a more compact and reliable switchgear can be provided.

[0053] 6 (FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C), one or more insulation or insulating features may be provided to improve electrical safety during isolation, the second position. These features may be provided individually or in combination with one or more other insulation features (including features not described herein). It will be appreciated that the second end 334 of the disconnector blade 332 may be shaped to accommodate the insulation / insulating features described in FIG. 6 while still allowing movement of the disconnector blade from the second position of FIG. 4C to the third, grounding position.

[0054] 6A , the second sidewall 216a of the housing includes an end insulator 600a configured to contact the second end 334 of the disconnector blade of a pole (e.g., a pole of the third switching device 208c) disposed proximate the second sidewall when the disconnector blade is in the second position. In some examples, the end insulator (also referred to as a support insulator because it supports the disconnector blade) includes a copper portion that contacts the second end 334 of the disconnector blade 332. This end / support insulator 600a reduces electric field end effects at the second end 334 of the disconnector blade 332 and provides better dielectric performance compared to high electric fields in air.

[0055] In one example shown in FIG. 6B , the second sidewall 216a of the housing includes one or more shields 600b. In this example, there are two shields 600b, each including a metal plate 610 covered with an insulating material 620. When the disconnector blade 332 of a pole (e.g., the pole of the third switching device 208c) disposed adjacent to the second sidewall is in the second position, the second end 334 of the disconnector blade is disposed between the two shields 600b. The shields 600b reduce field end effects at the second end 334 of the disconnector blade 332. Furthermore, the use of an insulating core means that the high electric field is partially contained within the insulating material, which improves insulation performance compared to the high electric field in air.

[0056] 6C , the second sidewall 216a of the housing includes an insulating sheet 600c. The insulating sheet 600c can be formed from any suitable insulating material. The insulating sheet 600c does not need to contact the second end 334 of the disconnector blade of a pole (e.g., a pole of the third switching device 208c) disposed proximate to the second sidewall in the second position. The presence of the insulating sheet 600c can act as an obstacle to the breakdown current path and help avoid insulation breakdown, even without physical contact, thereby improving insulation performance compared to an equivalent switchgear device without the insulating sheet 600c.

[0057] The use of one or more isolation features in the second side wall 216b of the housing facilitates the use of the three-position disconnect and earthing switch 330 in the compact switchgear 100, 200. Thus, the use of the isolation features provided herein can provide a more compact and reliable switchgear.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 7 (FIGS. 7A, 7B, 7C), a busbar assembly 700 suitable for use with the switchgear device 100, 200 will now be described.

[0059] The busbar assembly 700 includes a plurality of cylindrical main busbars 770, each including an internal bore extending through its length. The busbar assembly also includes a plurality of branch busbars 772. A first end of each branch busbar includes a bore 774, and a second end of each branch busbar includes a spherical portion 776. The use of a spherical (i.e., curved) portion at the second end of the branch busbars 772 acts to reduce or avoid high electric fields at the second ends of the branch busbars. The second ends of the disconnector blades contact the corresponding branch busbars in the first, on position to connect the power source and the load.

[0060] A threaded rod 778 extends through the inner bore of each main bus bar 770 and the bore 774 of each branch bus bar 772. The branch bus bars 772 are configured to electrically connect to their respective disconnector blades in a first, on position. The threaded rod extends along a first direction 782 between a first end and a second end. The main bus bars and the branch bus bars are alternately arranged on the threaded rod along the first direction 782. In some examples, each main bus bar includes an outer insulating sleeve 780 collinear with the inner bore.

[0061] 7B , the switchgear 100, 200 including the busbar assembly will be described. As described above, the switchgear includes a housing including a first sidewall 216a and a second sidewall 216b offset along a first direction 782. The first sidewall 216a includes a first insulating mount 784 configured to threadably mate with a first end of a threaded rod 778. The second sidewall 216b includes a second insulating mount 786 configured to threadably mate with a second end of the threaded rod 778. In some examples, the first insulating mount 784 is an insulating bushing. In some examples, the second insulating mount 786 is an epoxy insulator. However, other insulating mounts may be used as required by the size and use / application of the switchgear.

[0062] 8, a plan view of a switchgear device 100, 200 including a busbar assembly 700 according to the present disclosure is illustrated. The example of FIG. 8 is a three-way switchgear device having three switching devices 208, namely, a first switching device 208a, a second switching device 208b, and a third switching device 208c. The switching devices are disposed between a first side wall 216a and a second side wall 216b of the switchgear housing, which are disposed along the first axis 102.

[0063] In this particular example, the distance d1 between the first switching device 208a and the second switching device 208b is equal to the distance between the second switching device 208b and the third switching device 208c. However, to provide a compact footprint, the distance d2 between the third switching device and the second side wall 216b of the housing is less than d1. Furthermore, the distance d3 between the first switching device and the first side surface 216a of the housing is less than d1 and less than d2. The dimension d2 is limited by the need to provide sufficient insulation / isolation between the 3PS disconnector and the second “off” position of the grounding switch 330. The isolation feature(s) described with reference to FIG. 6 facilitate the smaller dimension d2, which helps provide a more compact switchgear.

[0064] According to the above disclosure, each of the first, second, and third switching devices includes three poles 210a, 210b, 210c arranged in the depth direction or lateral direction 104 (as in FIG. 1B ). In other words, the switching devices 208 are arranged along a first axis (102), and the multiple poles 210 of each switching device are arranged along a respective second axis (104) perpendicular to the first axis. Each of the multiple poles 210 is associated with a respective switch 212 having a fixed contact and a movable contact. Each of the multiple poles 210 is also associated with a disconnector and earthing switch 330, as described with reference to FIG. 3 .

[0065] A plurality of busbar assemblies 700, such as those described with reference to Figure 7, are disposed between the operating shaft 214 (not shown) and the switch 212. The busbar assemblies 700 are insulated at each end and coupled to the switchgear housing, as described with reference to Figure 7B. Each busbar assembly includes a plurality of main busbars 770 and a plurality of branch busbars 772 arranged alternately along the first axis 102.

[0066] In this example, each busbar assembly 700 includes two main busbars 770, each extending parallel to the first axis and electrically connecting corresponding poles 210 of adjacent switching devices 208. For example, one main busbar connects poles 210a of switch / device 208a to poles 210a of switch / device 208b, and another main busbar connects poles 210a of switch / device 208b to poles 210a of switch / device 208c. However, there may be more than two main busbars per assembly.

[0067] In this example, there are three branch busbars per assembly (alternating with the main busbars along the first axis). The busbar assembly 700 is arranged such that the second end 334 of each disconnector blade 332 is electrically connected to the second end of a respective branch busbar 772 when the disconnector blades are in the first position. Each branch busbar may have a partially spherical second end to reduce or avoid high electric fields at the ends of the branch busbar, as described with reference to FIG. 7C . Each branch busbar is electrically coupled to the main busbar of its respective assembly to provide a conductive path between adjacent switching devices.

[0068] It should be understood that the foregoing embodiments are not to 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.

[0069] Furthermore, 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. An opening and closing device (100, 200), a plurality of switching devices (208) configured to disconnect power from a load, each switching device comprising: a plurality of poles (210), each associated with a respective switch (212) having a fixed contact and a movable contact; an actuation mechanism including a shaft (214), the shaft configured to rotate to transmit an external input and move the movable contact to open or close the switch of the switching device; Equipped with The plurality of opening and closing devices are arranged along a first axis (102); the plurality of poles of each switching device are arranged along a respective second axis (104) perpendicular to the first axis; Each shaft is a plurality of opening and closing devices arranged perpendicular to the first axis and configured to rotate about a rotation axis parallel to the second axis; a plurality of disconnectors and earthing switches (330), each disconnector and earthing switch associated with a respective one of the plurality of poles, each disconnector and earthing switch having a disconnector blade (332), the disconnector blade pivotable about a first end (342) of the disconnector blade between three different positions, the three positions being: a first position in which the disconnector and earthing switch are closed and the power source is connected to the load through the disconnector blades; a second, isolation position in which the disconnect switch and grounding switch are open and the power source is disconnected from the load; a third position in which the power source is disconnected from the load and the second end (334) of the disconnector blade is electrically connected to a ground contact (336); a plurality of disconnecting switches and earthing switches, Equipped with the first end of each disconnector blade pivotally coupled to the respective switch; Switchgear (100, 200).

2. a housing (216) having a first sidewall (216a) and a second sidewall (216b); the opening and closing device is disposed along the first axis between the first side wall and the second side wall of the housing; The opening and closing device according to claim 1 .

3. the first end of each disconnector blade is pivotally coupled to the respective switch; each disconnector blade configured to rotate about a pivot axis from the first position to the second position, the rotation being toward the second side wall of the housing; The opening and closing device according to claim 2 .

4. The second sidewall comprises: an end insulator (600a) configured to contact the second end of the disconnector blade of the pole disposed adjacent the second side wall when the disconnector blade is in the second position; and / or An insulating sheet (600c) is provided. The opening and closing device according to claim 3 .

5. 4. The switchgear of claim 3, wherein the second side wall includes two shields, each shield including a metal plate covered with an insulating material, and wherein the second end of the disconnector blade of the pole disposed adjacent to the second side wall is disposed between the two shields when the disconnector blade is in the second position.

6. The switchgear of claim 1 , further comprising a flexible link (340) electrically connecting the first end of each disconnector blade and the movable contact.

7. 7. The switchgear of claim 6, wherein each disconnector and earthing switch is disposed between the respective switch and the shaft along a respective third axis (106) perpendicular to the first and second axes.

8. 2. The switchgear of claim 1, wherein each disconnector blade is operated by a four-bar crank rocker mechanism (348).

9. 2. The switchgear of claim 1, wherein the plane (108) about which the disconnector blades rotate is offset from the axis of operation of the respective switch.

10. a plurality of busbar assemblies (700), each busbar assembly comprising a plurality of main busbars (770) and a plurality of branch busbars (772) arranged alternately along the first axis; each main busbar extends parallel to the first axis and electrically connects corresponding poles of adjacent switching devices; when the disconnector blades are in the first position, the second end of each disconnector blade is electrically connected to a respective branch busbar; Each branch busbar is electrically coupled to a respective main busbar to provide a conductive path between adjacent switching devices; The opening and closing device according to claim 1 .

11. 11. The switchgear of claim 10, wherein each branch busbar comprises a part-spherical end.

12. The switchgear of claim 10 , wherein each of the plurality of busbar assemblies is insulated at either end.

13. 2. The switching device of claim 1, wherein each respective switch comprises a vacuum interrupter, the movable contact of the vacuum interrupter being movable by the actuation mechanism and disposed between the fixed contact of the vacuum interrupter and the shaft of the actuation mechanism.

14. The opening and closing apparatus is a three-way opening and closing apparatus, and the plurality of opening and closing devices are a first opening and closing device (208a); a second opening and closing device (208b), and a third opening and closing device (208c), each of the first, second, and third switching devices comprises three poles; The opening and closing device according to claim 1 .

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