ASSEMBLY FOR CONNECTING AN ELECTROMAGNETIC ACTUATOR

Abstract

An assembly for connecting an electromagnetic actuator comprises a first shaft having a first linkage and a second shaft having a second linkage connected by a deflection assembly configured to rotate between an initial position and a final position. A contact arm of the second shaft advances a sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator from an activated state to an deactivated state, such that the assembly prevents the electromagnetic actuator from returning to the activated state. The deflection assembly has a toggle position in which a deflection force rotates the contact arm from the toggle position to the final position.

Description

ASSEMBLY FOR CONNECTING AN ELECTROMAGNETIC ACTUATOR Field of Invention The present description is generally concerned with systems and methods for disconnecting a magnetic actuator and more particularly with a locking mechanism for a switch for changing circuits from medium voltage to high voltage. Background of the Invention Molded vacuum circuit breakers (MVIs) in electrical distribution applications, such as substations and medium- and high-voltage switching equipment, use circuit breakers or automatic switches that have electrically conductive contacts enclosed in a vacuum case or chamber. Compared to air brake circuit breakers, the electrical contacts in a vacuum require less travel distance to open an associated circuit, and therefore less force to open and reset the breakers. Molded vacuum circuit breakers (MVIs) typically use spring mechanisms or electromagnetic actuators to separate the conductive contacts of the vacuum circuit breaker and open the molded vacuum breaker circuit. The electromagnetic actuators of the associated molded vacuum breaker have a fixed permanent magnet that is in Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi Ref. 343697 contact with a plunger when the electromagnetic actuator is in an activated state. The plunger is connected to a sliding armature that can advance to mechanically separate the plunger from the fixed permanent magnet, placing the electromagnetic actuator in an inactive state. The electromagnetic actuator can be activated or deactivated by energizing a coil of the electromagnetic actuator. The sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator is mechanically coupled to a push rod of the vacuum circuit breaker that separates the conducting contacts of the vacuum circuit breaker when the sliding armature advances, placing the electromagnetic actuator in the inactive state. Electromagnetic actuators can be connected to an electrical control system that energizes a coil surrounding the plunger. Energizing the coil by sending an electrical signal to the electromagnetic actuator puts the actuator into the activated state, causing the plunger to make magnetic contact with the fixed permanent magnet. The plunger's movement against the fixed permanent magnet causes the conductive contacts of the vacuum switch to come into contact with each other, closing the circuit of the molded vacuum switch. Therefore, putting the electromagnetic actuator into the deactivated state opens the molded vacuum switch by separating the conductive contacts. Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi automatic switch and place the electromagnetic actuator in the activated state closes the molded vacuum switch. Service personnel performing maintenance on the power panel or substation using the molded vacuum circuit breaker must open the circuit before performing maintenance. This process is commonly known as lockout, whereby service personnel can ensure that an open molded vacuum circuit breaker remains open while maintenance is performed on the system. However, in the event of an accidental activation of the electromagnetic actuator or a failure within the control system more generally, the electromagnetic actuator may unintentionally close the molded vacuum circuit breaker. Such instances can be dangerous because service personnel may unknowingly be servicing a live or live system. Therefore, there is a need in the art to provide a mechanical locking mechanism in electrical distribution applications that can be manually operated and lock the electromagnetic actuator in the deactivated state, so that the electromagnetic actuator does not close the molded vacuum breaker circuit during lockout maintenance. Brief Description of the Invention In one aspect, a set is described for connecting a Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi electromagnetic actuator. The assembly includes a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link rotating around a first shaft in a first angular direction.The assembly further includes a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and a contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and contact arm rotating about a second shaft in the first angular direction, the contact arm configured to advance a sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator and a drive assembly or deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link and a drive element or deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin, the deflection assembly rotating about an axis of the deflection assembly in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position.Rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the initial position and an alternating position causes the deflection element to rotate in the second angular direction, and the first pin and second pin compress the deflection element and the rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the position. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi of alternation and the final position causes the deflection element to push the first pin and the second pin away from the deflection element. In another aspect, a locking mechanism for a switch is described. The locking mechanism includes at least one vacuum switch assembly comprising a fixed conductive contact and a movable conductive contact, the movable conductive contact being connected to a push rod, the push rod configured to separate the fixed conductive contact from the movable conductive contact upon movement of the push rod away from the fixed conductive contact. The locking mechanism further includes at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly comprising a fixed permanent magnet, a plunger, and a sliding armature having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the push rod of the at least one vacuum switch assembly and the second end being connected to the plunger. The at least one electromagnetic actuator has an on state and an off state.The activated state is defined by the plunger making contact with the fixed permanent magnet and the deactivated state is defined by the plunger being separated from the fixed permanent magnet, with at least one electromagnetic actuator configured to conductively separate the movable conductive contact from the fixed conductive contact. The locking mechanism also includes a set that Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi has a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link being rotatable about a first shaft in a first angular direction; a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and a contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and the contact arm being rotatable about a second shaft in the first angular direction, the contact arm configured to advance the sliding armature of at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly; and a deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link, and a deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin.The deflection assembly rotates around an axis of the deflection assembly in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position. Rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the initial position and an alternating position causes the deflection element to rotate in the second angular direction, and the first and second pins compress the deflection element. Rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the alternating position and the final position causes the deflection element to push the first and second pins away from the element. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi of deviation. In another aspect, a method for locking a switch is described. The method includes the steps of rotating an input crank of a mechanical assembly in a first angular direction, such that a contact arm of the mechanical assembly is rotated from an initial position to an alternating position, and rotating the input crank in the first angular direction, such that the contact arm of the mechanical assembly is rotated from the alternating position to a final position.The mechanical assembly includes a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link being rotatable about a first shaft in the first angular direction; a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and the contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and the contact arm being rotatable about a second shaft in the first angular direction, the contact arm configured to advance a sliding armature of at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly; and a deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link, and a deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin, the deflection assembly being rotatable about. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi of the deflection assembly shaft in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position. The electromagnetic actuator assembly comprises a fixed permanent magnet, a plunger, and a sliding armature having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to a push rod of at least one vacuum switch assembly and the second end being connected to the plunger. The at least one electromagnetic actuator has an activated state and an deactivated state. The activated state is defined by the plunger making contact with the fixed permanent magnet, and the deactivated state is defined by the plunger being separated from the fixed permanent magnet. The at least one electromagnetic actuator is configured to conductively separate the movable conductive contact from the fixed conductive contact. Brief Description of the Figures The subject matter of the description will be explained in more detail in the following text with reference to exemplary modalities illustrated in the accompanying figures. Figure 1 is a schematic representation of a vacuum breaker molded according to one modality of the description. Figure 2 is a perspective view of a mechanical assembly for connecting an electromagnetic actuator according to one modality of the description. Figure 3 is a top view of the mechanical assembly in Figure 2 Figure 4 is a perspective view of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an initial position. Figure 5A is a side view of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an initial position. Figure 5B is a cross-sectional side view of the mechanical assembly in Figure 5A. Figure 6A is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an initial position. Figure 6B is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an initial position. Figure 7A is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an alternating position. Figure 7B is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in an alternating position. Figure 8A is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in a final position. Figure 8B is a side view of a deflection assembly of the mechanical assembly of Figure 2 in a position Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi final. Figure 9A is a cross-sectional side view of a molded vacuum breaker and an electromagnetic actuator having a mechanical assembly for engaging the electromagnetic actuator in an initial position, according to one embodiment of the description and Figure 9B is a cross-sectional side view of a molded vacuum breaker and an electromagnetic actuator having an assembly for connecting the electromagnetic actuator in an end position, according to one embodiment of the description. The reference symbols used in the figures and their meanings are summarized in the reference symbol list. In principle, identical parts are provided with the same reference symbols in the figures. Detailed Description of the Invention In the following description and claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which will be defined to have the following meanings. The singular forms a, one, and the include plural references, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. The terms comprise, include, and have are intended to be inclusive and mean that there may be additional elements besides those listed. Optionally or optionally means that the event or circumstance described below may or may not occur and that the description includes instances where Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi the event occurs and instances where it does not occur. As used herein, the term "closed" refers to an electrical circuit, system, component, feature, or element described herein in which electricity passes and flows without interruption. As used herein, the term "open" describes an electrical circuit, system, component, feature, or element described herein in which continuity is broken, such that current is interrupted and does not flow. The modalities described herein concern a mechanical assembly 200 for connecting an electromagnetic actuator of a molded vacuum circuit breaker, or more generally, a circuit breaker with an actuator mechanism, to provide a locking mechanism for closing the circuit of the molded vacuum circuit breaker. The mechanical assembly 200 is configured to advance a sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator from an initial position to a final position, thereby placing the electromagnetic actuator in an off state. The mechanical assembly 200 is further configured to lock the electromagnetic actuator in the off state, such that activation of the electromagnetic actuator will not close the molded vacuum circuit breaker during maintenance lockout. Figure 1 illustrates a schematic representation of a molded vacuum switch 100 having a vacuum breaker 110 and an electromagnetic actuator 150. The vacuum breaker 110 comprises a fixed conductive contact 112 and a movable conductive contact 114 enclosed within a vacuum chamber 116. The vacuum chamber 116 is insulated by one or more layers of ceramic insulators and is sealed from the atmosphere, creating a vacuum medium 118. The vacuum medium 118 is configured to extinguish the arc between the fixed conductive contact 112 and a movable conductive contact 114 during the opening and closing of the molded vacuum switch 100 circuit and the translation of the movable conductive contact 114 relative to the fixed conductive contact 112. The vacuum switch 110 further comprises a push rod 120 coupled to the movable conductive contact 114 and is configured to advance the movable conductive contact 114 between an open position and a closed position relative to the fixed conductive contact 112, such that the vacuum switch 110 opens or closes, respectively. As illustrated in Figure 1, the movable conductive contact 114 is shown making contact with the fixed conductive contact 112 in the closed position, and the movable conductive contact 114 is reversibly separated from the fixed conductive contact 112. The fixed conductive contact 112 is conductively connected to a first terminal 122, and the contact Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi A movable conductor 114 is conductively connected to a second terminal 124. The first terminal 122 and the second terminal 124 extend outward from the enclosure 116 and are configured to connect the vacuum circuit breaker 110 to positive or negative terminals of a substation or, more generally, a system to which the molded vacuum circuit breaker 100 is connected. In some embodiments, the first terminal 122 and the second terminal 124 are located outside the vacuum enclosure 116. In some embodiments, a spring-loaded or movable jumper (not shown) conductively connects the second terminal 124 to the push rod 120, such that the second terminal 124 remains fixed, while the push rod 120 and the movable conductive contact 114 move or advance between the open and closed positions. In some embodiments, the vacuum switch 100 and electromagnetic actuator 150 are positioned side-by-side around a central axis Y-Y'. In some embodiments, the push rod 120 further comprises an overtravel spring 121 extending from the vacuum chamber 116 along the central axis Y-Y' and mechanically coupled to a sliding armature 156 of the electromagnetic actuator 150. The sliding armature 156 is configured to travel a stroke distance Sb to compress or release an overtravel spring 121. As explained in more detail below, the overtravel spring 121 stores energy. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi of potential spring that is configured to separate or push the movable conducting contact 114 against the fixed conducting contact 112, as the sliding armature 156 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 is moved between an initial position and a final position. The electromagnetic actuator 150 includes a fixed permanent magnet 152, a plunger 154, an actuator opening spring (not shown), and the sliding armature 156 having a first end 158 and a second end 160. The first end 158 of the sliding armature 156 is coupled to the overtravel spring 121 of the push rod 120 of the vacuum switch 110, and the second end 160 is coupled to the plunger 154. The plunger 154 is substantially cylindrical and made of a magnetic material, such as metal. A coil winding, or more generally, an electromagnetic coil 162, surrounds the plunger 154.The electromagnetic coil 162 is conductively connected to a control system 300 and the control system 300 is configured to send a control signal that is configured to activate or deactivate the electromagnetic coil 162. In some embodiments, the control system 300 is configured to reverse the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 when the state of the electromagnetic actuator 150 changes. The fixed permanent magnet 152, plunger 154, sliding armature 156 and electromagnetic coil 162 are enclosed Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi within a housing 164. The first end (not shown) of the sliding armature 156 extends from the housing 164. In some embodiments, the housing 164 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 is isolated so that signal interference or electromagnetic interference cannot cause unintentional activation or deactivation of the electromagnetic coil 162. In some embodiments, a pad or barrier (not shown) is placed between one or more of the fixed permanent magnet 152, plunger 154, sliding armature 156, and electromagnetic coil 162 to prevent direct contact of the components. The electromagnetic actuator 150 is in an activated state defined by the plunger 154 making contact with the fixed permanent magnet 152, and the electromagnetic actuator 150 is in an deactivated state defined by the plunger 154 being separated from the fixed permanent magnet 152. Reversing the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 causes the plunger 154 to advance and make contact with the fixed permanent magnet 152, and subsequently, reversing the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 causes the plunger 154 to separate from the fixed permanent magnet 152. Therefore, reversing the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 places the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the activated state, and subsequently, reversing the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 places the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the deactivated state. Reversal of the polarity of the electromagnetic coil 162 applies an actuator force Fa to the plunger 154 causing the plunger 154 to move away from the fixed permanent magnet 152 by a stroke distance Sb. The actuator's opening spring stores potential spring energy which is set to separate or push the plunger 154 away from the fixed permanent magnet 152 as the sliding armature 156 is moved between an initial position and a final position. The actuator opening springs and the overtravel spring 121 exert deflection or pushing forces in the same direction as the sliding armature 156 is moved between an initial and a final position. As the sliding armature 156 and plunger 154 are advanced away from the fixed permanent magnet 152 by a trigger or travel distance, potential energy is released from both the actuator opening spring and the overtravel spring 121. Advancement beyond the trigger distance to an overtravel distance Do (as shown in Figure 7B) causes the plunger 154 to advance away from the fixed permanent magnet 152, and advancement beyond the overtravel distance Do causes the movable conductive contact 114 of the vacuum switch 110 to separate from the fixed conductive contact 112, opening the circuit breaker 110.In some modalities, the advancement from beyond the Do overrun distance to the Sb race distance. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi causes the movable conductive contact 114 of the vacuum switch 110 to separate from the fixed conductive contact 112, opening the circuit breaker 110. The potential spring energy stored within the actuator opening spring is sufficient to reversibly separate the movable conductive contact 114 of the vacuum circuit breaker 110 from the fixed conductive contact 112 when the electromagnetic actuator 150 is placed in the deactivated state and the sliding armature 156 and plunger 154 have traveled beyond the overtravel distance Do. The overtravel spring 121 is also configured to hold the movable conductive contact 114 against the fixed conductive contact 112 when the electromagnetic actuator 150 is placed in the activated state.The advancement of the plunger 154 away from the fixed permanent magnet 152 by the overtravel distance Do (as shown in Figure 7B) will cause the release of the potential spring energy stored within the actuator opening springs, causing the movable conductive contact 114 of the vacuum switch 110 to separate from the fixed conductive contact 112. Therefore, when the actuator force Fa is applied to the plunger 154 and the plunger 154 has moved at least the overtravel distance Do, the potential spring energy of the actuator opening spring is released. In some embodiments, the... Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi overrun distance Do is less than the running distance Sb. The electromagnetic actuator 150 can also be mechanically placed in the deactivated state by mechanically advancing the sliding armature 156 towards the electromagnetic actuator 150, such that the plunger 154 is separated or pulled away from the fixed permanent magnet 152. By way of example, a tab 166 or, more generally, a mechanical coupling can be attached to the sliding armature 156 externally to the housing 164 of the electromagnetic actuator 150. The tab 166 and the sliding armature 156 can be advanced by a mechanical force Fm applied to the tab 166 or sliding armature 156, such that the plunger 154 is forcibly separated from the fixed permanent magnet 152.In some embodiments, the mechanical force Fm is greater than the actuator force Fa, such that the plunger 154 is forcibly separated from the fixed permanent magnet 152 even when the electromagnetic coil 162 is applying the actuator force Fa in a force direction opposite to the force direction of the mechanical force Fm. In some embodiments, as long as the mechanical force Fm is applied to the sliding armature 156 or tab 166, the electromagnetic actuator 150 cannot return to the activated state and the movable conductive contact 114 cannot advance to make contact with the fixed conductive contact 112 of the switch. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi empty 110. Therefore, the application of mechanical force The mechanical force Fm applied to the sliding armature 156 or tab 166 effectively blocks the molded vacuum switch 100. As explained in more detail below, the mechanical assembly 200 is configured to mechanically advance the sliding armature 156 and apply the mechanical force Fm to the sliding armature 156 or tab 166. The mechanical assembly 200 removably holds the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the off state, such that the electromagnetic actuator 150 cannot close the vacuum switch 110, effectively blocking the molded vacuum switch 100. The mechanical assembly 200 advances the sliding armature 156 or tab 166 by the overtravel distance Do and the stroke distance Sb, such that the elastic potential energy of the overtravel spring 121 and the actuator opening spring is released and the actuator 150 is placed in the off state. Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of a mechanical assembly 200 for connecting the electromagnetic actuator 150 according to one embodiment of the description. As shown, three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c) are positioned above a base plate 102. Each of the three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c) comprises a respective sliding armature (156a, 156b, 156c) that extends through the base plate 102 and is coupled with three rods. The three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c) and three vacuum circuit breakers (not shown) define a 3-pole system. In some embodiments, a 1-pole system has only one electromagnetic actuator 150 and one vacuum circuit breaker 110. In some embodiments, the system has at least one electromagnetic actuator 150 and at least one vacuum circuit breaker 110. The structure and functionality of armatures 150a, 150b, and 150c are the same; therefore, as the description progresses, the structure and functionality of armature 150, which represents the structure and functionality of all armatures, will be described. The at least one electromagnetic actuator 150 is separated from the base plate 102 by spacers or separators 104 that connect the at least one electromagnetic actuator 150 to the base plate 102.The mechanical assembly 200 is positioned between the base plate 102 and at least one electromagnetic actuator 150, and in some embodiments, the mechanical assembly 200 is supported by brackets 106 mounted on the base plate 102. As illustrated, the mechanical assembly 200 extends below the three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c), and below each of the three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c) is a contact arm 228 positioned beneath respective tabs (166a, 166b, 166c). Thus, the 3-pole system comprises a... Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi A single mechanical assembly 200 is configured to mechanically advance the sliding armature (156a, 156b, 156c) of each of the three electromagnetic actuators (150a, 150b, 150c) and apply the mechanical force Fy to the respective tabs (166a, 166b, 166c) simultaneously. In other words, the contact arms 228 of a single mechanical assembly 200 mechanically advance the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c) simultaneously. Figure 3 illustrates a top view of the mechanical assembly 200 and base plate 102 in a 3-pole configuration. The base plate 102 in the 3-pole configuration comprises openings (108a, 108b, 108c) extending through the base plate 102. The openings (108a, 108b, 108c) receive the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c) of Figure 2. The mechanical assembly 200 comprises a first shaft 210 and a second shaft 220 connected by a diverter assembly 250. The first shaft 210 has a first end 212 connected to an input crank 202 and a first link 214 located along a length L1 of the first shaft 210. The second shaft 220 has a second link 224 located along a length L2 of the second shaft and a contact arm 228 located along a length L2. In some embodiments, the second shaft 220 and the length L2 are configured to accommodate multiple contact arms 228 as shown in Figure 2. As shown in the 3-pole configuration of Figure 2 3, the second shaft 220 extends from a first end 222 to a second end 226, such that the openings (108a, 108b, 108c) are between the first end 222 and the second end 226. In some embodiments, the user can manually turn the input crank 202 or attach it to a motor. In some embodiments, the input crank 202 is a manually operated handle. As best shown in Figures 3 and 4, in some embodiments, two contact arms 228 are placed between each of the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c) and over each of the openings (108a, 108b, 108c). In some embodiments, each of the openings (108a, 108b, 108c) has a single contact arm 228 placed between each of the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c). As explained in more detail below, after rotation of the second shaft 220 and the two contact arms 228, each of the two contact arms 228 is configured to advance the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c). In some embodiments, a single contact arm 228 is configured to advance each of the sliding armatures (156a, 156b, 156c). In some embodiments, at least one contact arm 228 is configured to advance tab 166 of sliding armature 156. Figure 5A illustrates a side view of the deflection assembly 250 of the mechanical assembly 200 and Figure 5B illustrates Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi A cross-sectional view of the deflection assembly 250 of Figure 5A. As shown, the deflection assembly 250 comprises a first movable element 252 connected to the first link 214 of the first shaft 210 and a second movable element 254 connected to the second link 224 of the second shaft 220. The deflection assembly 250 further comprises a pusher or deflection mechanism 256 disposed between the first movable element 252 and the second movable element 254 configured to push against the first movable element 252 and the second movable element 254. In some embodiments, the deflection assembly 250 further comprises a hollow elongated body 262 housing the first movable element 252, the second movable element 254, and the deflection element 256. As best shown in the cross-sectional view of Figure 5B, in some embodiments, the first movable element 252 is a first movable pin and the second movable element 254 is a second movable pin. In some embodiments, the first movable element 252 can be moved within a first longitudinal groove 264 extending longitudinally through the hollow elongated body 262, and the second movable element 254 can be moved within a second longitudinal groove 266 extending longitudinally through the hollow elongated body 262. In some embodiments, the deflection assembly 250 can pivot about a fixed pin 268 that defines an axis of the deflection assembly X3. In some embodiments, the deflection element 256 is a leaf spring. In some embodiments, the deflection element 256 is a coil spring. In some embodiments, the deflection element 256 is a single element extending from the first movable element 252 to the second movable element 254. In some embodiments, the deflection element 256 consists of two or more discrete spring elements. For the purpose of describing the exemplary embodiment, the deflection element 256 consists of a first deflection element 258 and a second deflection element 260. The first deflection element 258 is disposed between the first movable element 252 and the fixed pin 268, and the second deflection element 260 is disposed between the second movable element 254 and the fixed pin 268. As best shown in Figures 3, 5A, and 5B, the first shaft 210 and the first link 214 are rotatable about the first shaft XI in a first angular direction α1 after the application of a torque in the first angular direction α1 to the input crank 202. In response to the rotation of the first shaft 210, the second shaft 220, the second link 224, and the contact arm 228 are rotatable about the second shaft X2 in the first angular direction α1, and the deflection assembly 250 is rotatable about the deflection assembly axis. X3 in a second angular direction A2. In some embodiments, the fixed pin 268 is placed coaxially with the axis of the deflection assembly X3. The deflection assembly 250 is rotatable between an initial position (as shown in Figures 6A, 6B, and 9A) and a final position (as shown in Figures 8A, 8B, and 9B). Applying torque to the input crank 202 in the first angular direction 1a causes the entire mechanical assembly 200 to rotate from the initial position until it reaches a final position. The mechanical assembly 200 can be returned to the initial position only by applying torque to the input crank 202 in an angular direction opposite to the first angular direction 1a. The deflection assembly 250 is also rotatable to an intermediate contact position and subsequently to an intermediate toggle or shift position (as shown in Figures 7A and 7B, which illustrate a tab (166, 166') between the contact position and the toggle or shift position). The contact position and the toggle position are positions between the initial and final positions; however, the contact position and the toggle position are not permanently held by the mechanical assembly 200. As used herein, the term "hold" or "held" describes a component or element of this description that remains stationary when no torque is applied. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi of torque to the input crank 202. In other words, if no torque or, more generally, angular rotation is applied to the input crank 202, the deflection assembly 250 will push the mechanical assembly 200 to the initial or final position. Following rotation of the input crank 202 in Figure 3, the first shaft 210 and the first link 214 are rotated in the first angular direction α1, causing the deflection assembly 250 to rotate in the second angular direction α2 between an initial and a final position. The rotation of the deflection assembly 250 causes the second link 224, second shaft 220, and contact arm 228 to rotate in the first angular direction α1 between the initial and final positions. As explained below with reference to Figures 6A-8B, the contact arm 228 is configured to advance the sliding armature 156 and the tab 166 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 from an initial to a final position, thereby placing the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the deactivated state.In particular, the rotation of the mechanical assembly 200 to the final position causes the contact arm 228 to advance the sliding armature 156 to the electromagnetic actuator 150, such that the plunger 154 is separated or pulled away from the fixed permanent magnet 152. In the final position, the contact arm 228 and, more generally, the mechanical assembly 200 are locked in place. Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi removable in the final position (shown in Figures 8A and 8B) such that the electromagnetic actuator 150 cannot be placed in the activated state, effectively blocking the molded vacuum switch 100. Rotating the mechanical assembly 200 back to the initial position (shown in Figures 6A and 6B) no longer prevents the electromagnetic actuator 150 from returning to the activated state. In some embodiments, the electromagnetic actuator 150 can return to the activated state by energizing the electromagnetic coil 162 through the control system 300.Figure 6A illustrates a side view of the deflection assembly 250 in the initial position, and Figure 6B illustrates a side view of the contact arm 228 relative to the sliding armature 156 and tab 166 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 when the deflection assembly 250 is in the initial position. As shown, the deflection assembly 250 is in the initial position, and the contact arm 228 does not make contact with the sliding armature 156 and tab 166. In the initial position, the electromagnetic actuator is in the activated state defined by the plunger 154 in contact with the fixed permanent magnet 152, as shown in Figures 1 and 9A. In the initial position, the first deflection element 258 of the deflection element 256 exerts a deflection force Fbi against the first movable element 252 and the second deflection element 260 of the deflection element 256 exerts a deflection force Fb2 against the second movable element 254.In some modes, the deflection assembly 250 is configured to hold the deflection forces Fbi and Fbb against the first link 214 and second link 224, such that the deflection assembly 250 remains in the initial position. Figure 7A illustrates a side view of the deflection assembly 250 in the contact position and Figure 7B illustrates a side view of the contact arm 228 in relation to the sliding armature 156 and flange 166 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the contact position. As shown in Figure 7B, when moving to the contact position, the contact arm 228 is rotated in the first angular direction α1, and the contact arm 228 makes contact and engages against the sliding armature 156 and tab 166. However, the contact arm 223 does not advance the sliding armature 156 and tab 166 and therefore does not alter the activated state of the electromagnetic actuator 150. In some embodiments, the contact arm 228 has a distal inclined surface 229 that first makes contact with the tab 166. The inclined surface is configured to facilitate the advancement of the contact arm 228 against the tab 166. After further movement from the contact position to the alternating position, as shown in Figure 7B, the contact arm 228 is rotated in the first direction The angular contact arm 228 advances the sliding armature 156 and tab 166 by the firing distance, causing tab 166 to advance and release the stored potential energy of the overtravel spring 121 and the actuator opening spring. The overtravel spring 121 and the actuator opening spring then advance the sliding armature 156 and tab 166 to place the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the off state. In other words, after movement by the firing distance, the electromagnetic actuator 150 is placed in the off state, regardless of any further movement of the contact arm 228 beyond the contact position.As the deflection assembly 250 is rotated from the initial position to the alternating position, spring potential energy is increasingly stored within the deflection element 256, exerting deflection forces FDi and FD2 against the first link 214 and the second link 224 respectively, pushing the first link 214 and the second link 224 back to the initial position. The torque applied to the input crank 202 must be sufficient to overcome the deflection forces Fbi and Fb2 that cause the deflection assembly 250 to rotate to the alternating position. Put another way, if the torque is removed from the input crank 202 before the assembly... If deflection assembly 250 has rotated beyond the alternating position, the deflection assembly 250 will return to the initial position. Rotation of the deflection assembly 250 beyond the alternating position to the final position will cause the release of the spring's potential energy, exerting deflection forces Fbi and Fbb against the first link 214 and the second link 224 respectively, pushing the first link 214 and second link 224 to the final position. Therefore, before the deflection assembly 250 is rotated to the alternating position, the deflection assembly 250 will return to the initial position as long as no torque is applied to the input crank 202 of Figure 3. Likewise, after the deflection assembly 250 is rotated beyond the alternating position, the deflection assembly 250 will rotate to the final position as long as no torque is applied to the input crank 202 of Figure 3. Figure 8A illustrates a side view of the deflection assembly 250 in the end position, and Figure 8B illustrates a side view of the contact arm 228 in relation to the sliding armature 156 and tab 166 of the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the end position. The contact arm 228 and the mechanical assembly 200, in general, are held in the end position such that the contact arm 228 prevents the sliding armature 156 from contacting the fixed permanent magnet 152, returning the electromagnetic actuator to the activated state. Thus, in the end position, the mechanical assembly 200 effectively blocks the electromagnetic actuator 150. Referring now to Figure 9A, the vacuum switch 110 is closed and the electromagnetic actuator 150 is in the activated state. The mechanical assembly 200 is in the initial position and the contact arm 228 is neither spliced ​​nor in contact with the sliding armature 156 or the tab 166, allowing free movement of the sliding armature 156 and free activation and deactivation of the electromagnetic actuator 150. The molded vacuum switch 100 can be opened or closed by activating or deactivating the electromagnetic actuator 150. Referring now to Figure 9B, the mechanical assembly 200 is in its final position, such that the contact arm 228 has fully advanced the sliding armature 156 to place the electromagnetic actuator 150 in the deactivated state, opening the vacuum switch circuit. Rotation of the deflection assembly 250 and the contact arm 228 from the initial position to the contact position and further by the trip distance advances the sliding armature 156 of the electromagnetic actuator 150, separating the plunger 154 from the permanent magnet 152 to deactivate the electromagnetic actuator 150. The first end 158 of the sliding armature 156 is coupled to the overtravel spring. Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi 121 such that the movable conducting contact 114 is also separated from the fixed conducting contact 112 by the stroke distance Sb. Therefore, the rotation of the mechanical assembly 200 from the initial position to the final position through the intermediate contact position and the alternating position deactivates the electromagnetic actuator 150 and opens the vacuum switch circuit 110. In operation, torque is applied in the first angular direction αi to the input crank 202, causing the first linkage 214 to rotate an input angular distance, such that the first linkage 214 is rotated in the first angular direction αi from the initial position to the final position. Through the deflection assembly 250, which connects the first linkage 214 and the second linkage 224, the contact arm 228 is rotated an input angular distance from the initial position to the final position. The input angular distance and the contact arm angular distance are defined in degrees, and the contact arm angular distance is set to fully advance the sliding armature 156 by the stroke distance Sb.The input angular distance and the contact arm angular distance are rotated in the first angular direction A1 when the mechanical assembly 200 is rotated between the initial and final positions to lock the molded vacuum switch 100. Likewise, to unlock the molded vacuum switch 100 and allow the actuator. Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi electromagnetic 150 return to the activated state, the input crank 202 is turned in the opposite direction by the first angular distance Al until the contact arm 228 returns from the final position to the initial position. Therefore, even if a control signal is sent to energize the electromagnetic coil 162, the electromagnetic actuator will not return to the activated state because the contact arm 228 blocks the advancement of the sliding armature 156 and tab 166. Service personnel performing maintenance on equipment or substations using the molded vacuum breaker 100 can mechanically lock the molded vacuum breaker 100 by rotating the mechanical assembly 200 to the end position, providing a mechanical lock for the molded vacuum breaker 100 by preventing accidental activation of the electromagnetic actuator 150.Even if the control system 300 were to inadvertently send a signal to electrically energize the electromagnetic coil 162 due to a static discharge or human error, the contact arm 228 will prevent the sliding armature 156 or the tab 166 from advancing the movable conductive contact 114 by the stroke distance Sb. In some configurations, the angular entry distance is equal to the angular distance of the contact arm. In some configurations, the angular entry distance is less. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi that the angular distance of the contact arm. In some embodiments, the input angular distance is greater than the angular distance of the contact arm. By way of example, but not limitation, the input angular distance can be configured to require an angular distance greater than the angular distance of the contact arm, so that the input crank 202 is not unintentionally rotated between the initial and final positions. In some modes, the angular input distance is 40 degrees between the initial and alternating positions. In some modes, the angular input distance is between 40 and 50 degrees between the initial and alternating positions. In some modes, the angular input distance is 82 degrees between the initial and final positions. In some modes, the angular input distance is between 80 and 90 degrees between the initial and final positions. Returning to Figure 6A, the ratio of the input angular distance to the contact arm angular distance can be increased or decreased by changing the relative distance of the first movable element 252 and second movable element 254 with respect to the fixed pin 268. In particular, the first movable element 252 and fixed pin 268 define a first moment arm having a distance DI, and the second movable element 254 and fixed pin 268 define a second moment arm having a distance D2. The distance DI of the first The moment arm's distance D2 and the second arm's distance D2 can be set to be equal, resulting in a 1:1 ratio of the input angular distance to the contact arm's angular distance. Alternatively, the DI distance of the first moment arm and the D2 distance of the second arm can be set to result in a larger or smaller input angular distance relative to the contact arm's angular distance. In some modes, the ratio is in the range of 1.1:1 to 1.3:1. In some embodiments, the potential spring energy released from the deflection element 256 after the alternating position is sufficient to fully advance the contact arm from the alternating position to the final position. In some embodiments, the potential spring energy released from the deflection element 256 after the alternating position is sufficient to prevent the deflection assembly 250 from returning to the initial position. In some embodiments, additional torque is required to fully advance the contact arm from the alternating position to the final position. A method for locking a molded vacuum breaker comprises the steps of rotating the input crank 202 in the first angular direction 1a, such that the contact arm 228 of the mechanical assembly 200 is rotated from the Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi initial position to the alternating position, in addition to rotating the input crank 202 in the first angular direction, such that the contact arm 228 of the mechanical assembly is rotated from the alternating position to the final position. In some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of rotating the input crank 202 in the first angular direction A1 such that the contact arm 228 of the mechanical assembly 200 is rotated from the initial position to the final position. A method for mechanically unlocking a molded vacuum switch comprises the steps of rotating the input crank 202 in a direction opposite to the first angular direction 1a such that the contact arm 228 of the mechanical assembly 200 is rotated from the end position to the toggle position. In some embodiments, the method comprises the steps of rotating the input crank 202 in a direction opposite to the first angular direction 1a such that the contact arm 228 of the mechanical assembly 200 is rotated from the end position to the initial position. Since several changes can be made to the above constructions without departing from the scope of the invention, it is intended that all the material contained in the above description and shown in the accompanying figures be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Rnbznn / cznz / e / YiAi This written description uses examples to make the invention known, including the best way, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including the manufacture and use of any device or system and to effect any incorporated method. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are claimed to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims. It is hereby stated that, as of this date, the best method known to the applicant for carrying out the aforementioned invention is the one that is clear from the present description of the invention.

Claims

1. An assembly for connecting an electromagnetic actuator characterized in that it comprises: a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link being rotatable about a first shaft in a first angular direction;a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and a contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and the contact arm rotating about a second shaft in the first angular direction, the contact arm configured to advance a sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator and a deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link and a deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin, the deflection assembly rotating about an axis of the deflection assembly in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position;wherein the rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the initial position and an alternating position causes the deflection element to rotate in the second angular direction and the first pin and the second pin compress the deflection element; wherein the rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the alternating position and the final position causes the deflection element to push the first pin and the second pin away from the deflection element.

2. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the deflection assembly comprises an elongated body, wherein the first movable element is moved within a first longitudinal groove of the elongated body and the second movable element is moved within a second longitudinal groove of the elongated body.

3. The assembly according to claim 2, characterized in that the deflection assembly further comprises a pivoting element disposed between the first longitudinal groove and the second longitudinal groove, the pivoting element positioned coaxially with the axis of the deflection assembly, the deflection assembly being rotatable about the pivoting element.

4. The assembly according to claim 3, characterized in that the deflection assembly further comprises a first deflection element disposed between the pivoting element and the first movable element and a second deflection element disposed between the pivoting element and the second movable element.

5. The assembly according to claim 4, characterized in that the first deflection element is configured to push against the first movable element and the second deflection element is configured to push against the second movable element.

6. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the deflection assembly applies a deflection force against the first link and the second link, such that the rotation of the first link between the initial position and the alternating position causes the first link to return to the initial position.

7. The assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the deflection force is released after the rotation of the first link beyond the alternating position.

8. The assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the deflection force is released after rotation of the first link beyond the alternating position, such that the deflection assembly keeps the contact arm removably locked in the final position.

9. The assembly according to claim 6, characterized in that the rotation of the first link between the initial position and a contact position causes the contact arm to engage with the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator, the contact position being between the initial position and the alternating position.

10. The assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that the contact arm has an inclined surface configured to contact and advance a tab of the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator after rotation of the first linkage between the contact position and the alternating position.

11. The assembly according to claim 9, characterized in that the rotation of the first link between the contact position and the alternating position causes the contact arm to advance the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator from an activated state to an deactivated state.

12. The assembly according to claim 11, characterized in that the contact arm in the final position prevents the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator from returning to the activated state.

13. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the contact arm is removably locked in the final position.

14. The assembly according to claim 1, Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi characterized in that the first link is returned to the initial position by rotating the first shaft in a second angular direction opposite to the first angular direction.

15. The assembly according to claim 1, characterized in that the input crank is selected from the group consisting of a motor and a manually operated handle.

16. A locking mechanism for a switch characterized in that it comprises: at least one vacuum switch assembly comprising a fixed conductive contact and a movable conductive contact, the movable conductive contact being connected to a push rod having an overtravel spring, the overtravel spring being configured to separate the fixed conductive contact from the movable conductive contact after the push rod has moved away from the fixed conductive contact; at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly comprising a fixed permanent magnet, a plunger, and a sliding armature having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to the overtravel spring of the at least one vacuum switch assembly and the second end being connected to the plunger, the at least one electromagnetic actuator having an on state and an off state.wherein the activated state is defined by the plunger making contact with the fixed permanent magnet and the deactivated state is defined by the plunger being separated from the fixed permanent magnet, the at least one electromagnetic actuator configured to conductively separate the movable conductive contact from the fixed conductive contact and an assembly comprising: a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link being rotatable about a first shaft in a first angular direction; a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and a contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and the contact arm being rotatable about a second shaft in the first angular direction,the contact arm configured to advance the sliding armature of at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly and a deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link, and a deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin,the deflection assembly rotates about an axis of the deflection assembly in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position; wherein the rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the initial position and an alternating position causes the deflection element to rotate in the second angular direction and the first pin and the second pin compress the deflection element; wherein the rotation of the first link in the first angular direction between the alternating position and the final position causes the deflection element to push the first pin and the second pin away from the deflection element.

17. The mechanism according to claim 16, characterized in that the deflection assembly applies a deflection force against the first link and the second link, such that rotation of the first link between the initial position and the alternating position causes the first link to return to the initial position and wherein the deflection force is released after rotation of the first link beyond the alternating position, such that the deflection assembly keeps the contact arm removably locked in the final position.

18. The mechanism according to claim 16, characterized in that the rotation of the first linkage between a contact position and the alternating position causes the contact arm to advance the sliding armature of the at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly from the activated state to the deactivated state, the contact position being between the initial position and the alternating position.

19. The mechanism according to claim 16, 45 characterized in that the advancement of the sliding armature of at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly from the activated state to the deactivated state releases potential energy stored in the overtravel spring and an actuator opening spring to separate the fixed conducting contact from the movable conducting contact.

20. The mechanism according to claim 16, characterized in that the contact arm in the end position prevents the sliding armature of the at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly from returning to the activated state and prevents the fixed conductive contact from making contact with the movable conductive contact of the at least one vacuum switch assembly.

21. A method for locking a switch characterized in that it comprises the steps of: rotating an input crank of a mechanical assembly in a first angular direction, such that a contact arm of the mechanical assembly is rotated from an initial position to a contact position; rotating the input crank in the first angular direction, such that the contact arm of the mechanical assembly is rotated from the contact position to an alternating position; rotating the input crank in the first angular direction, such that the contact arm of the mechanical assembly is rotated from the alternating position to a final position;wherein the mechanical assembly comprises: a first shaft having a first end connected to an input crank and a first link located along the first shaft, the first shaft and the first link rotating about a first shaft in the first angular direction;a second shaft having a second link located along the second shaft and the contact arm located along the second shaft, the second link and the contact arm rotating about a second shaft in the first angular direction, the contact arm configured to advance a sliding armature of at least one electromagnetic actuator assembly and a deflection assembly having a first movable element connected to the first link, a second movable element connected to the second link and a deflection element disposed between the first pin and the second pin, the deflection assembly rotating about an axis of the deflection assembly in a second angular direction between an initial position and a final position;wherein the electromagnetic actuator assembly comprises a fixed permanent magnet, a plunger, and a sliding armature having a first end and a second end, the first end being connected to an overtravel spring of at least one vacuum switch assembly and the second end being connected to the plunger, the at least one electromagnetic actuator having an activated state and an deactivated state, wherein the activated state is defined by the plunger making contact with the fixed permanent magnet and the deactivated state is defined by the plunger being separated from the fixed permanent magnet, the at least one electromagnetic actuator being configured to conductively separate the movable conductive contact from the fixed conductive contact.

22. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that the contact arm in the end position prevents a vacuum switch from closing and prevents the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator from returning to the activated state.

23. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that the deflection assembly applies a deflection force against the first link and the second link, such that rotation of the first link between the initial position and an alternating position causes the first link to return to the initial position and wherein the deflection force is released after rotation of the first link beyond the alternating position, such that the deflection assembly keeps the contact arm removably locked in the final position.

24. The method according to claim 21, Rnbznn / cznz / e / viAi characterized in that the rotation of the input crank in a second angular direction opposite to the first angular direction from the final position to the initial position allows the sliding armature of the electromagnetic actuator to pass 5 to the activated state.

25. The method according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of rotating the input crank in a second angular direction opposite to the first angular direction from the final position to the initial position.

26. The method according to claim 25, characterized in that it further comprises the steps of returning the electromagnetic actuator to the activated state.

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