Switching chamber and switching device for switching equipment

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

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

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

[0003] One possible application of such a switching device, in particular of a power contactor, is opening and disconnecting a battery circuit in a motor vehicle, such as an electrically or partially electrically driven motor vehicle. These can be, for example, purely battery-powered vehicles (BEV: "battery electric vehicles"), hybrid electric vehicles (PHEV: plug-in hybrid electric vehicles) that can be charged via an outlet or a charging station, and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV: hybrid electric vehicles). In this case, usually both the positive and negative contacts of the battery are disconnected using a power contactor. This disconnection is performed both during normal operation, for example when the vehicle is idling, and in the event of a fault such as an accident, for example. In this context, switching the vehicle to zero potential and interrupting the current is the main role of the power contactor. Particularly in the event of a fault, a switching arc is generated when the current is interrupted. These arcs must be extinguished using appropriate measures in order to safely interrupt the current and prevent damage to the switch. The goals in the design of switching components are low cost, simple and rapid manufacturing, and a long service life, that is, a large number of switching cycles.

[0004] To extinguish the arc, hydrogen-containing gas is typically used, along with permanent magnets, so-called blowout magnets, placed in the arc-generating region to deflect the arc. For example, Patent Document 1 describes such a method.

[0005] However, the switching arc and its extinction can result in sputtering of the contact material of the switching contacts. This effect, also known as burn-off, can cause the sputtered contact material to accumulate on the walls of the switching chamber where the switching contacts are located. On the other hand, so-called molten beads may also form, which fall to the bottom of the switching chamber and can move within the discharge space during further operation due to the movement of the switching device in its application, as well as due to vibrations and suction effects during gas exchange, for example, when switching on and off. This poses a risk that the molten beads may interfere with or block mechanical components, resulting in the mechanically moving parts of the switching device slowing down or even becoming completely immobile during the switching process. To protect the mechanism against this, conventional methods have included, for example, very tight guides to the switching chamber, but this can lead to longer exhaust and gas refilling times.

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

[0007] [Patent Document 1] European Patent Application Publication No. 1168392 [Patent Document 2] DE112019005667T5 [Patent Document 3] German Patent Application Publication No. 102009027844 Specification [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

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

[0009] These problems are solved by the subject matter described in the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments and developments of the subject matter are described in the dependent claims and will become clear from the following description and drawings.

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

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

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

[0013] In a further embodiment, the switching device has a housing in which a switching chamber and a movable contact and at least one fixed contact are arranged. The movable contact may, in particular, be entirely housed within the housing. The fact that the fixed contact is housed within the housing may, in particular, mean that at least the contact area of ​​the fixed contact that mechanically contacts the movable contact in the connected state is housed inside the housing. For the connection of the wires of the circuit to be switched by the switching device, the fixed contact housed within the housing may be electrically accessible from the outside, i.e., from outside the housing. For this purpose, a portion of the fixed contact housed within the housing may protrude from the housing and have the possibility of connection for wires outside the housing.

[0014] In a further embodiment, the contacts are located in a gaseous atmosphere within the housing. This may mean, in particular, that the movable contacts are located entirely in a gaseous atmosphere within the housing, and furthermore, that a portion of the fixed contacts, for example, the contact area of ​​the fixed contacts, is located in a gaseous atmosphere within the housing. Accordingly, the switching device may be a gas-filled switching device, such as a gas-filled contactor, in particular.

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

[0016] In a further embodiment, at least one blowout magnet is located in or adjacent to the switching chamber, and the blowout magnet may be formed of a permanent magnet, particularly preferably. Furthermore, multiple blowout magnets may be present. In the case of the switch-off process of a switching device under load while the load current is still flowing, i.e., spatial separation of the movable contacts and one or more fixed contacts, the arc generated is deflected by the blowout magnet, thereby extending and pushing it out of the contact area. This can also improve arc extinguishing.

[0017] In a further embodiment, the switching chamber, i.e., the switching chamber cover or the bottom of the switching chamber, has at least one opening through which at least one fixed contact can protrude into the internal space of the switching chamber. As a result, a portion of at least one fixed contact may be located outside the switching chamber, and another portion of at least one fixed contact may be located inside the switching chamber, and therefore within the internal space of the switching chamber. If the switching device has a plurality of fixed contacts, the switching chamber may preferably have a corresponding opening for each of the fixed contacts, each to which the above-described features apply.

[0018] The switching chamber cover may be formed, for example, in a cap shape and may consist of one or more parts. The switching chamber bottom may be formed, for example, substantially in a plate shape and may similarly consist of one or more parts. Particularly preferably, at least the switching chamber bottom is formed as a single part, i.e., as a related part not manufactured by an assembly of multiple independently manufactured parts. In this case, the term “plate shape” may refer to a substantially flat design compared to a cap shape configuration. However, raised or recessed structures such as webs, grooves, and periphery may be present. Thus, “plate shape” may also mean, for example, a dish shape. Furthermore, it may be possible to form both the switching chamber bottom and the switching chamber cover in a cap shape. Regardless of the specific shapes of the switching chamber cover and the switching chamber bottom, they may be arranged relative to each other to form a switching chamber such that an internal space is formed in which the switching process described above takes place, particularly preferably.

[0019] In further embodiments, the switching chamber has a plastic material and / or a ceramic material. Particularly preferably, the bottom of the switching chamber may be manufactured using or from a plastic material. Particularly preferably, the bottom of the switching chamber is manufactured entirely from a plastic material. For example, the bottom of the switching chamber may be formed as a molded part, i.e., as a single piece, which can be manufactured using a molding process such as injection molding or compression molding. The switching chamber cover may consist of, for example, a ceramic material, or from a ceramic material, or alternatively, a plastic material.

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

[0021] POM is a semi-crystalline, linear thermoplastic material having repeating elements -CHR-O-, which can be produced by chain polymerization or chain copolymerization, and which can be manufactured over a wide range of linear structures, where R represents an organic residue. Particularly preferred is a plastic material with the structure (CH2O) n It has, i.e., it has or is formed by having hydrogen as a residue R. Accordingly, plastic materials can be characterized by a relatively low carbon content and a very small graphite formation tendency. In particular (CH2O) n In this case, because the carbon and oxygen content are the same, during decomposition induced by heat, especially by arc, mainly gaseous CO and H2 may be generated. Therefore, a conductive wall coating is unlikely to form, and the additional hydrogen can enhance arc extinguishing.

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

[0023] Particularly preferably, the plastic material has sufficient mechanical and thermal stability under the normal operating conditions of a switching device, for example through the selection of a suitable polymer material and the selection of a suitable proportion of filler, while at the same time it is selected such that, due to arc-induced burn-off of the switching contacts, the still hot contact material reaching onto the switching chamber bottom, for example in the form of molten beads, softens the plastic material, with the result that the molten beads, for example in the switching chamber bottom, can melt at least partially. Thereby, the degree of freedom of movement of the molten beads on the switching chamber bottom can be limited. For example, the material of the switching chamber bottom may have a melting temperature of 250°C to 350°C inclusive.

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

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

[0026] The web structure may be designed, for example, such that the bottom surface has multiple bottom regions separated from each other by the web structure. For example, loose portions, such as molten beads, can preferably be prevented by the web structure from reaching separated bottom regions from one bottom region, at least under normal operating conditions. This can be achieved to limit the degrees of freedom of movement of molten beads on the bottom surface of the switching chamber bottom, at least under normal operating conditions. Preferably, the separated bottom regions are located in the same plane and thus define this plane. In other words, the bottom surface without a web structure is preferably formed flat. For example, the plane on which the bottom regions are located may be positioned perpendicular to the direction of gravity in an installation suitable for the normal use of the switching device. In this case, the direction of gravity may also be referred to as the vertical direction. The direction perpendicular to the plane defined by the bottom regions may also be referred to as the vertical direction. Furthermore, the vertical direction may also be the direction of movement along which the movable contact moves during switching operation. Furthermore, the vertical direction may also coincide with the axial direction of the axis through which the movable contact moves. The longitudinal direction may preferably be defined by the arrangement of two fixed contacts perpendicular to the vertical direction. The transverse direction may be perpendicular to the vertical direction and perpendicular to the longitudinal direction. Thus, the longitudinal and transverse directions can span the plane on which the bottom region is located. The bottom of the switching chamber may have a substantially rectangular shape when viewed along the vertical direction, for example. In this case, the longitudinal direction may extend along the longer side of the rectangle, and the transverse direction along the shorter side of the rectangle, regardless of the arrangement of the fixed contacts.

[0027] The web structure, and in particular at least one web, may have a height of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm. Hereafter, unless otherwise specified, the height indications refer to the vertical distance measured to the bottom region.

[0028] The web structure may further have multiple webs, particularly preferably at least two intersecting webs. Furthermore, the web structure may have webs arranged in a grid, i.e., at least one web in the longitudinal direction, which intersects with two or more webs extending laterally to it, i.e., webs extending along the transverse direction. In other words, the web structure may have, for example, at least one longitudinal web and at least two transverse webs. In addition, the web structure may also have one or more webs extending diagonally with respect to the longitudinal and transverse directions. For example, the web structure may form a honeycomb structure formed by multiple webs, for example having rectangular or hexagonal honeycombs. The web structure divides the base surface having a total area particularly preferably into a plurality of base regions that are separated from each other, each of which has an area of ​​20% or less or 10% or less of the total area.

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

[0030] In a further embodiment, the bottom of the switching chamber has an opening for the passage of such an axis of the switching device. The web structure may have a collar structure formed as a protrusion on the bottom surface and thus above the bottom region, surrounding the opening. Thereafter, the collar structure may form a channel, preferably extending vertically, through which an axis can be guided. The collar structure may be formed, for example, by a substantially hollow cylindrical protrusion, which may be directly adjacent to one or more webs. In other words, the collar structure may transition into one or more webs. For example, a web such as a longitudinal web or a transverse web may be interrupted by the opening and thus by the collar structure. The collar structure may have a height at least equal to the height of at least one web. Preferably, the collar structure has a height greater than or equal to the height of all the webs in the web structure. Furthermore, the collar structure may have a top surface when viewed vertically, which is designed as a mechanical stopper for the moving parts of the switching device or as a counter bearing for a spring.

[0031] In a further embodiment, the bottom of the switching chamber has a surrounding edge structure that encloses the bottom surface having a web structure. The edge structure is particularly preferably raised above the bottom region such that the bottom surface is surrounded by the surrounding raised edge structure. Preferably, the edge structure is at least as high as the maximum height of the web structure. This may mean that the edge structure is at least as high as the height of at least one web, and particularly preferably as high as the height of all the webs in the web structure.

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

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

[0034] In a further embodiment, the bottom of the switching chamber has a sleeve-shaped guide region on its outer surface opposite to the inner surface for guiding an axis within the opening. In other words, the guide region is preferably formed by a substantially hollow cylindrical protrusion on the outer surface of the bottom of the switching chamber, through which a channel is led that connects to a channel preferably formed by a collar structure. Thus, the opening of the bottom of the switching chamber is formed by a channel extending through the sleeve-shaped guide region and the collar structure. An axis for the movement of a movable contact can be guided through this channel.

[0035] The underside of the guide region opposite the collar structure may be formed as a mechanical counter bearing or as a mechanical stopper for the switching device spring. Furthermore, the switching device may have a fixed yoke, which may be part of a magnetic drive, and the bottom of the switching chamber may be located above or directly on it. A sleeve-shaped guide region may protrude into the opening of the yoke. This makes it possible, for example, that the shaft is mechanically guided not through the yoke, but through the guide region and collar structure of the bottom of the switching chamber.

[0036] In a further embodiment, the bottom of the switching chamber has a ventilation channel that extends from the outside of the switching chamber into the internal space. Preferably, the ventilation channel opens into a ventilation opening in the collar structure. Particularly preferably, the ventilation opening in the internal space of the switching chamber is located vertically, at least partially above the collar structure. Furthermore, the ventilation opening is particularly preferably located away from the bottom surface. In other words, the ventilation opening is located at a specific height above the bottom region, particularly at a height of 0.5 mm or more or 1 mm or more. This can prevent loose portions, such as molten beads, from reaching the ventilation channel. The ventilation channel can thus form a protected ventilation nozzle through which, for example, the switching chamber can be rapidly filled with gas, while minimizing the risk of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel during operation. In particular, the ventilation channel can also be separated from channels that guide the shaft within the collar structure, so that even in the event of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel, the movement of the shaft is not likely to be impaired. A ventilation groove may be provided on the outside of the sleeve-shaped guide region, leading to a ventilation channel. Furthermore, there may be multiple ventilation channels and ventilation grooves, to which the above-described conditions apply.

[0037] The switching chamber described herein can avoid problems that may occur in known switching devices, for example, due to molten beads, by the switching chamber bottom described above. The switching chamber bottom forms a specially molded shield that can collect the generated molten beads, for example, in a honeycomb and allow for rapid exhaust and filling of the switching chamber by one or more additional shielded ventilation channels. Particularly preferably, the switching chamber bottom, which may have the challenge of preventing the arc from reaching a portion located below it, such as a flange, is manufactured from the high-melting-point plastic described above. When the switching device is switched off under load, the arc is preferably deflected by a blowout magnet and driven away from the contact area between the switching contacts. When the arc reaches the switching chamber bottom, rapid arc extinction can be achieved, as additional hydrogen may be released, particularly in the case of POM as the switching bottom material, and also in the case of PBT or PA. If molten beads are generated by the burn-off of the contact material, the web structure can prevent them from moving uncontrollably around on the switching chamber bottom. The special shape of the ventilation channel prevents molten beads from blocking the shaft, while simultaneously maintaining a sufficient pumping cross-section, which in turn allows for effective gas filling of the switching chamber during manufacturing.

[0038] In this way, a switching chamber bottom that can be manufactured at substantially the same cost as a conventional switching chamber bottom provides an easily feasible replacement solution for existing designs, which can lead to an extension of the service life of the switching equipment.

[0039] Further advantages, favorable embodiments, and developmental forms will become apparent from the embodiments described below in conjunction with the drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0040] [Figure 1A]This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1B] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1C] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1D] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1E] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1F] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1G] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1H] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1I] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 1J] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to one embodiment. [Figure 2A] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment. [Figure 2B] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment. [Figure 2C] This is a schematic diagram of a switching device having a switching chamber according to a further embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0041] In the examples and drawings, identical, similar, or equivalently functioning elements may be given the same reference numeral. The illustrated elements and their relative sizes are not to scale; rather, individual elements such as layers, parts, components, and regions may be exaggerated in size for better illustration and / or better understanding.

[0042] Figures 1A to 1J show various views of a switching device 100 having a switching chamber 11 and some embodiments thereof. The switching device 100 can be used, for example, for switching high current and / or high voltage, and may be a relay or contactor, in particular a power contactor.

[0043] Figure 1A shows a three-dimensional cross-sectional view of a switching device 100 having a switching chamber 11. Figure 1B shows axis 7 alone. Figures 1C-1F show various single views of the switching chamber bottom 13 of the switching chamber 11. Figures 1G-1J show cross-sectional views of the switching device 100 to highlight various details. The following description is similarly related to Figures 1A-1J. The illustrated geometric shapes should be understood to be illustrative and not limiting, and other embodiments may be designed.

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

[0045] Contacts 2, 3, and 4 are located within the switching chamber 11, which is formed by the switching chamber cover 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13. In the illustrated embodiment, the switching chamber cover 12 is made of a ceramic material containing or composed of a metal oxide, such as Al2O3. The fixed contacts 2 and 3 protrude into the switching chamber 11 through an opening in the switching chamber cover 12 and are soldered, for example, within the opening.

[0046] In Figure 1A, the switching device 100 is shown in an idle state with the movable contact 4 separated from the fixed contacts 2 and 3, and thus the contacts 2, 3, and 4 are electrically isolated from each other. The illustrated embodiments of the switching contacts and, in particular, their geometric shapes, should be understood to be purely illustrative and not limiting. Alternatively, the switching contacts may be designed in other ways. For example, it may be possible for only one of the switching contacts to be designed as a fixed contact. In the illustrated embodiment, in the switched-on state of the switching device 100, achieved by the movement of the movable contact along the vertical direction 91, the movable contact 4 is in contact with both fixed contacts 2 and 3. Alternatively, the movable contact 4 may also be formed as a rotating contact, for example, supported so as to be rotatable about an axis of rotation along the vertical direction 91 to perform a switching operation. The states of the switching device 100 shown in Figure 1A correspond to a specified mounting direction. Unless otherwise specified, terms such as “up” and “down” used below are in relation to the vertical direction 91 and the specified mounting direction.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the orientation of the fixed contacts 2 and 3 is defined as the longitudinal direction 92, and the vertical direction 91 and the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 92 are hereafter referred to as the transverse direction 93. Figures 1A to 1J show directions 91, 92, and 93 in a way that makes it easier to identify their orientation.

[0048] In the illustrated embodiment, the switching device 100 has a magnetic drive for moving the movable contact 4 to perform a switching operation. Alternatively, a motor drive may also be provided, for example. The magnetic drive has a magnetic armature 5 that performs a switching operation substantially along the vertical direction 91. The magnetic armature 5 has a magnetic core 6 which contains or is made of, for example, a ferromagnetic material. Furthermore, the magnetic armature 5 has a shaft 7 which is shown separately in Figure 1B. The shaft 7 is guided through a portion of the magnetic core 6, as can be seen in Figure 1G, and is firmly connected to the magnetic core 6 at one end of the shaft. At the other end of the shaft opposite to the magnetic core 6, the magnetic armature 5 has a movable contact 4.

[0049] The integrally formed shaft 7 may include or be made from stainless steel, for example, and in the illustrated embodiment, it has an integral support element 70 in the form of a disc-shaped region, as shown in Figure 1B. The movable contact 4 is supported on the shaft 7 so as to be displaceable above the support element 70 by a contact spring 71 and an electrically insulating bridge holder 72, which include or are made of PBT or PA, for example, in the illustrated embodiment. On the contact side of the movable contact 4, i.e., the upper side when viewed in the vertical direction 91, the movable contact 4 is fixed to the shaft 7 by an electrically insulating intermediate disc 73, which includes or is made of PBT or PA, for example, and a fastening nut 74. The illustrated support and fixing of the movable contact 4 to the shaft 7 should not be understood as limiting, and different embodiments may be designed, as described in relation to Figures 2A-2C.

[0050] The magnetic core 6 is surrounded by a coil 8, which forms another part of the magnetic drive. An externally connectable current in the coil 8 generates vertical motion of the magnetic core 6, and consequently the entire magnet armature 5, until the movable contact 4 contacts the fixed contacts 2 and 3. The components of the control board for controlling the coil 8 are shown to the right of the coil in Figure 1A. The magnet armature 5 moves from a first position, corresponding to the idle state and simultaneously the disconnected state (i.e., unconnected state), as shown in Figure 1A, to a second position, corresponding to the active state (i.e., connected state). In the active state, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are electrically connected to each other. In other embodiments, the magnet armature 5 may also perform, for example, rotational motion, as further described above. The magnet armature 5 may be formed, in particular, as a tension armature (Zuganker) or a hinged armature (Klappanker).

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

[0052] The yoke 9 is surrounded by a flange 10 that separates the switching chamber 11 from the lower part of the switching device 100, in which the magnetic core 6 and coil 8 are located. The flange 10, which may form part of the magnetic circuit, may contain or consist of iron, such as pure iron or a low-doped iron alloy, similar to the yoke 9, and may be formed integrally with the yoke 9.

[0053] When contacts 2, 3, and 4 are opened, an arc may be generated that could damage the contact surfaces. This poses a risk that contacts 2, 3, and 4 may "stick" to each other due to welding caused by the arc and become unable to separate from one another. To prevent such arc generation, or at least to facilitate the extinguishing of any arc that does occur, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are placed in a gas atmosphere, and as a result, the switching device 100 is formed as a gas-filled relay or gas-filled contactor. For this purpose, contacts 2, 3, and 4 are located in an airtight region 14 inside the housing 1, within the switching chamber 11 formed by the switching chamber cover 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13. In particular, the switching chamber cover 12 is part of the wall surrounding the airtight region 14. The airtight region 14 completely encloses the magnet armature 5 and the internal space 110 of the switching chamber 11. The airtight region 14, and therefore the switching chamber 11 in particular, is also filled with gas. During the manufacture of the switching device 100, the gas that may be injected, for example, through a gas-filled pipe (not shown) in the lower region of the airtight area 14, may particularly preferably contain hydrogen. In particular, the gas 14 may contain at least 50% H2 in an inert gas such as N2 and / or one or more noble gases, because hydrogen-containing gases can promote arc extinguishing. As can be seen in Figure 1A, one or more blowout magnets 15, i.e., permanent magnets that can result in extension of the arc path and deflection of the arc from the region between contacts 2, 3, and 4, may be additionally placed in the switching chamber 11, or alternatively inside the switching chamber 11.

[0054] As can be seen in Figure 1G, the upper part of the airtight region 14, located above the flange 10 and where contacts 2, 3, and 4 in the switching chamber 11 are located, is connected only to the lower part of the airtight region 14, located below the flange 10 and where the magnetic core 6 of the magnet armature 5 is located, via an opening 19 in the yoke 9 through which the shaft 7 passes and is guided. Sufficient gas flow is required through the opening 19 in the yoke 9 in order to achieve, for example, a rapid pumping time when filling the airtight region 14, and to ensure gas exchange between the upper and lower parts during the switching process. On the other hand, as described in the general section, molten beads (Schmelzperlen) may be generated at contacts 2, 3, and 4 during arc-induced burn-off, which, if they reach the opening 19 or the lower part of the airtight region 14, pose a risk of hindering or even blocking the mobility of the mechanical parts, which should therefore be avoided. The switching chamber 11 having a switching chamber bottom 13, which will be described in more detail below, is configured so that both requirements can be taken into consideration.

[0055] In the illustrated embodiment, the switching chamber cover 12 is formed in a cap shape and may consist of one or more parts. The switching chamber bottom 13, shown individually from multiple viewing angles in Figures 1C to 1F, is formed in a plate shape and manufactured as a single unit. The switching chamber cover 12 and the switching chamber bottom 13 surround the internal space 110 in which the switching process takes place. Alternatively, for example, the switching chamber bottom 13 may also be formed in a cap shape, i.e., have a substantially higher edge.

[0056] The bottom 13 of the switching chamber preferably comprises a plastic material, more preferably a plastic material from which hydrogen can be released when heated. In particular, the plastic material is formed such that hydrogen can be released by an arc striking the plastic material, and as a result, improved arc extinguishing can be achieved, particularly advantageously, by the additionally released hydrogen in the form of H2. The plastic material comprises or may comprise, for example, polyoxymethylene (POM). Alternatively or additionally, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) and / or polyamide (PA), particularly PA46, can also be used as the plastic material. Furthermore, the plastic material may contain fillers dispersed in the plastic material, particularly glass material in the form of, for example, glass fibers. Particularly preferably, the plastic material has a filler content of 50% or less by mass, for example, a glass fiber content. Particularly preferably, the plastic material is selected through the selection of an appropriate polymer and an appropriate proportion of fillers so as to have sufficient mechanical and thermal stability under the normal operating conditions of the switching device 100. Furthermore, the switching chamber bottom 13 may have a softening or melting temperature selected such that, for example, the contact material, which is still hot, can reach the switching chamber bottom 13 in the form of molten beads due to the burn-off of switching contacts induced by an arc, thereby softening the plastic material, and as a result, for example, the molten beads can at least partially melt within the switching chamber bottom 13, thereby limiting the degree of freedom of movement of the molten beads. For example, the material of the switching chamber bottom 13 may have a melting temperature of 250°C or more and 350°C or less.

[0057] The switching chamber bottom 13 has a bottom surface 30 facing the internal space 110 of the switching chamber, which has a web structure 131 protruding from the bottom surface 30 into the internal space. The bottom surface 30 is an internal region of the switching chamber bottom 13 surrounded by a raised edge structure 32 in the illustrated embodiment.

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

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

[0060] The web structure, particularly the web 311, preferably has a height of 0.5 mm to 5 mm, preferably 1 mm to 3 mm, where the height indication refers to the distance measured vertically 91 to the bottom region 301 unless otherwise specified. A specific range of heights can effectively restrict the degrees of freedom of movement of molten beads, which typically have an average size of 0.5 mm to 1 mm, without requiring excessive vertical space for the web structure 31.

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

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

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

[0064] Furthermore, the switching chamber bottom 13 has a sleeve-shaped guide region 314 on its outer surface opposite to its inner surface for guiding the shaft 7 within the opening 33. The sleeve-shaped guide region 314 is formed by a substantially hollow cylindrical protrusion on the outer surface of the switching chamber bottom 13, through which a channel is led, preferably connected to a channel formed by a collar structure 312. In this way, the opening 33 of the switching chamber bottom 13 is formed by a continuous channel that passes through the sleeve-shaped guide region 314 and continues through the collar structure 312. The shaft 7 for moving the movable contact 4 is guided within this channel. The sleeve-shaped guide region 314 further protrudes into the opening 19 of the yoke 9, as can be seen in Figures 1G and 1H. This makes it possible to achieve that the shaft 7 is mechanically guided through the guide region 314 and the collar structure 312 of the switching chamber bottom 13, rather than through the yoke 9. As can be seen in Figure 1G, the lower surface 315 of the sleeve-shaped guide region 314, opposite to the collar structure, is formed as a mechanical counter bearing for the spring 21 of the switching device 100.

[0065] In a further embodiment, the bottom of the switching chamber 13 has at least one ventilation channel 316. For example, as can be seen in Figure 1H, the bottom of the switching chamber 13 in the illustrated embodiment has two ventilation channels 316 located on either side of the opening 33 in the transverse direction. There may be further ventilation channels, or just one ventilation channel. Each of the ventilation channels 316 extends from the outside of the switching chamber 11 into the internal space 110. In particular, each of the ventilation channels 316 opens into the internal space 110 by a ventilation opening 317 of the collar structure 312. As can be seen in Figure 1I, the ventilation opening 317 is positioned vertically within the internal space 110 of the switching chamber 11, partially on the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312, particularly in the peripheral region of the upper surface 313, so that the ventilation opening 317 remains at least partially uncovered even when the support element 70 of the shaft 7 rests on the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312. In this way, the collar structure 312 has circumferentially extending terraces between the ventilation openings 317, thereby ensuring that the ventilation openings 317 are freely accessible regardless of the switching state of the switching device 100.

[0066] Furthermore, the ventilation opening 317 is positioned away from the bottom surface 13. In other words, the ventilation opening 317 is located at a specific height above the bottom region 301, particularly at a height of 0.5 mm or more, or 1 mm or more. The lower edge of the ventilation opening 317 may be positioned at a height corresponding to, for example, the height of the web 311. The higher positioning of the ventilation opening 317 can prevent loose portions, such as molten beads, from reaching into the ventilation channel 316. Moreover, the ventilation channel 316 is also separated from the channel that guides the shaft 7 within the collar structure 312, as can be seen in Figure 1H, and as a result, even in the event of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel 316, there is no risk of impairing the movement of the shaft. As a result, the ventilation channel 316 can form a protected ventilation nozzle, through which, for example, the switching chamber 11 can be rapidly filled with gas, while the risk of contamination or blockage of the ventilation channel 316 and impairment of the mobility of the shaft 7 during operation are minimized. Further ventilation grooves 318 may be provided outside the sleeve-shaped guide region 314, as can be seen in Figure 1H, each of which transitions into the ventilation channel 316.

[0067] The web structure 31, and in particular the honeycomb structure formed thereby, can prevent molten beads from reaching the guide of the shaft 7, which is formed by the collar structure 312 and the sleeve-shaped guide element 314, and the lower part of the switching device 100. This can be made even more difficult by positioning the ventilation opening 317 higher. The terrace portion of the collar structure allows for sufficient pumping cross-section and gas exchange even when the member is placed flush with the upper surface 313 of the collar structure 312.

[0068] The outside of the switching chamber bottom 13 is further provided with adjustment elements 34 in the form of cylindrical or disc-shaped protrusions, which engage with corresponding adjustment elements 101 in the form of a suitable recess when the switching chamber bottom 13 is intentionally positioned on the flange 10. This makes it easy to achieve precise positioning of the switching chamber bottom 13 on the flange 10. In addition to the illustrated configuration, the adjustment elements 34 and 101 may be designed in different ways, in which case the adjustment elements preferably engage with each other.

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

[0070] As shown in the figures, the edge structure 32 can be formed in a stepped manner, particularly preferably, and may have an inner edge portion 321 having a first height and an outer edge portion 322 having a second height, where the first height is greater than the second height. The inner edge portion 321 is directly adjacent to and surrounded by the outer edge portion 322. The outer edge portion 322 has a support surface 323 for the switching chamber cover 12, as can be seen in Figures 1H and 1J, while the inner edge portion 321 contacts the inside of the switching chamber cover 12 when the switching chamber cover 12 is installed. The height of the edge structure 32 can be particularly preferably equal to the height of the collar structure 312. If the edge structure 32 has regions with different heights, such as the inner edge portion 321 and the outer edge portion 322 described above, the height of the edge structure 32 indicates its maximum height, in this case the first height.

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

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

[0073] The bridge holder 72 is formed on the shaft 7 and, compared to the previous embodiment, has a support element 70. The contact spring 71 is directly supported by the support element 70 and below the movable contact 4. As can be seen in Figure 2A, the bridge holder 72 further includes an anchor portion 75 having a locking lug that, together with the appropriately shaped opening of the movable contact 4, forms a bayonet lock. By inserting the anchor portion 75 into the opening of the movable contact 4 and rotating the movable contact 4 by, for example, 90°, the movable contact 4 can be locked on the bridge holder 72. Further features and embodiments of the bridge holder of the embodiment of Figures 2A-2C are described in the older publication WO2020 / 187586A1, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety.

[0074] The aforementioned configuration of the switching chamber base 13, particularly the ventilation openings, allows for continuous ventilation of the switching chamber 11 regardless of the specific shape of the bridge holder, especially the support elements.

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

[0076] The present invention is not limited to the examples described herein. Rather, the present invention includes all new features, and in particular all combinations of features, including all combinations of features in the claims, even if such features or combinations themselves are not explicitly presented in the claims or examples. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0077] 1 Housing 2, 3 fixed contacts 4 Movable contacts 5. Magnetic Armature 6 magnetic core 7 axes 8 coils 9 York 10 flanges 11 Switching Chamber 12 Switching Chamber Cover 13. Bottom of the switching chamber 14. Airtight zone 15 Blowout Magnet 19 Aperture 21 Spring 30 Bottom 31 Web Structure 32 Edge structure 33 Aperture 70 Support elements 71 Contact spring 72 Bridge Holder 73 Intermediate disk 74 Fastening nuts 75 Anchor section 91 vertical direction 92 Longitudinal direction 93 Transverse direction 100 Switching devices 101 Adjustment Elements 110 Interior space 301 Bottom area 311 Web 312 color structure 313 Top surface 314 Sleeve-shaped guide area 315 Bottom surface 316 Ventilation Channels 317 Ventilation opening 318 Ventilation groove 321 Inner edge 322 Outer edge 323 Support surface 324 Spring elements

Claims

1. A switching chamber (11) for a switching device (100), having at least one switching chamber bottom (13), The bottom portion (13) of the switching chamber has a bottom surface (30) having a web structure (31) on its inner surface facing the internal space (110) of the switching chamber (11), and the web structure (31) protrudes from the bottom surface (30) into the internal space (110). The switching chamber (11) further has at least one of the following features [1] to [4]. [1] The bottom portion (13) of the switching chamber has an opening (33) for the shaft (7) of the switching device (100) to pass through, and the web structure (31) has a collar structure (312) that rises above the bottom surface (30) and surrounds the opening (33), the height of the collar structure (312) is greater than the height of at least one web (311) of the web structure (31), and the collar structure (312) is a hollow cylindrical protrusion. [2] The bottom surface (30) is surrounded by a raised edge structure (32) which has an inner edge portion (321) having a first height and an outer edge portion (322) having a second height, wherein the first height is greater than the second height, and the outer edge portion (322) has a support surface (323) for the switching chamber cover (12) of the switching chamber (11), and the edge structure (32) has at least one spring element (324) which is part of the support surface. [3] The bottom portion (13) of the switching chamber has a spring element (324) which is part of the outer edge portion (322) and is formed in the form of a leaf spring. [4] The ventilation channel (316) extends from the outside of the switching chamber (11) into the internal space and opens into the internal space through the ventilation opening (317) of the collar structure (312) of the web structure (31).

2. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 1, wherein the bottom surface (30) has a plurality of bottom regions (301) separated from each other by the web structure (31).

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

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

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

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

7. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the height of the edge structure (32) is greater than the height of at least one web (311) of the web structure (31).

8. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the edge structure (32) and the color structure (312) have the same height.

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

10. The switching chamber (11) according to claim 9, wherein a ventilation groove (318) that transitions to the ventilation channel (316) is provided on the outside of the sleeve-shaped guide region (314).

11. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ventilation opening (317) is located on the upper surface (313) of the collar structure (312) within the internal space of the switching chamber (11).

12. The switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the ventilation opening (317) is located away from the bottom surface (30).

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

14. A switching device (100), - A switching chamber (11) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, - The switching chamber (11) has at least one fixed contact (2, 3) and one movable contact (4), A switching device (100) in which the switching chamber contains a gas containing H2.

15. The magnetic drive device has a shaft (7) that protrudes into the switching chamber (11) through an opening (33) in the bottom (13) of the switching chamber, The magnetic drive device has a fixed yoke (9), and the switching chamber (11) is positioned above the fixed yoke (9). The switching chamber (11) according to claim 14, wherein the bottom portion (13) of the switching chamber has a sleeve-shaped guide region (314) on the outside of the switching chamber (11) opposite to the internal space, which protrudes into the opening of the fixed yoke (9).

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