Electric switching apparatus having a pyrotechnic trigger

Abstract

The invention relates to an electric switching apparatus (1) having a housing (2) with a pressure chamber (3) in which a pyrotechnic trigger (4) is received, and to a piston assembly (5) arranged opposite the pyrotechnic trigger (4). The pressure chamber (3) is delimited by a piston surface (6) of the piston assembly in the housing (2), wherein by means of an activation of the pyrotechnic trigger a pressure (P) acts on the piston surface (6) and therefore the piston assembly (5) is moved. The electric switching apparatus (1) furthermore comprises a contact element (7) which is supported in the housing (2) in a standby position (8) and when the pyrotechnic trigger (4) is activated can be transferred together with the piston assembly (5) from the standby position (8) into an active position (9). The piston assembly (5) has at least one projection (10) which extends from the piston surface (6) in the direction of the pyrotechnic trigger (4) and has an active surface (11) facing said pyrotechnic trigger, wherein the projection (10) is provided to receive a first pressure pulse (I) at the active surface (11) and to transfer the first pressure pulse (I) to the contact element (7).

Description

[0001] ELECTRIC SWITCHING DEVICE WITH PYROTECHNICAL TRIGGER

[0002] The invention relates to an electrical switching device with a housing, wherein a pressure chamber is formed in the housing, in which a pyrotechnic trigger is accommodated, and a piston assembly arranged opposite the pyrotechnic trigger. The pressure chamber is delimited by a piston surface of the piston assembly in the housing, wherein, upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger, an (impulsive) pressure in the pressure chamber acts on the piston surface, so that the piston assembly can be adjusted by means of the pressure. The electrical switching device further comprises a contact element, wherein the contact element is mounted in the housing in a standby position and, upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger, can be transferred together with the piston assembly from the standby position into an active position (or a switching state of the switching device).

[0003] EP 2034503 B1 discloses a switching device arrangement comprising a short-circuit device with a movable contact piece that can be adjusted to a fixed contact piece by means of a propellant charge. The movable contact piece is connected to a piston-cylinder arrangement that can be adjusted by means of a pressure generated by the propellant charge. A cover with a membrane is arranged between the fixed contact piece and the piston. The membrane has a predetermined breaking line and can be penetrated by the movable contact piece when pressure is applied.

[0004] EP2995822 B1 discloses a pyrotechnic actuator comprising a piston inside a housing, as well as a propulsion system with a pyrotechnic igniter mounted in the housing to drive the piston. The pyrotechnic igniter is mounted inside the body such that a circumferential gap is formed between the housing and the pyrotechnic igniter, and the propulsion system further comprises a sealing ring arranged inside the gap in such a way that the pyrotechnic igniter is held in position with respect to the housing. Furthermore, the document discloses individual webs formed on the piston, which bear against the propulsion system in the circumferential direction and block it in its initial position with respect to a longitudinal direction.

[0005] A disadvantage of such switching devices from the prior art is that, due to the longer storage times of the components with regard to the properties of the pyrotechnic triggers, as well as with regard to certain tolerance ranges and deviating material properties of the components, they have different pressure conditions with regard to the actuating movement initiated by the activation of the pyrotechnic trigger, as well as different resistances to this actuating movement, as a result of which the reliability of the switching devices is not always optimal.

[0006] The object of the present invention was to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide a switching device by means of which a user is able to ensure an improved, process-reliable actuating movement of the contact element which is adjustable together with the piston arrangement.

[0007] This object is achieved by an electrical switching device according to the claims.

[0008] The electrical switching device according to the invention is characterized in that the piston arrangement has at least one projection and the projection extends from the piston surface in the direction of the pyrotechnic trigger and has an active surface facing the pyrotechnic trigger, wherein the projection is provided for (directly) receiving a first pressure pulse at the active surface upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger, and for transmitting the first pressure pulse to the contact element.

[0009] The effective surface of the projection is positioned significantly closer to the trigger than to the piston surface. Furthermore, the piston surface is further away from the pyrotechnic trigger than the effective surface—preferably along a direction of travel of the piston assembly.

[0010] The total pressure buildup in the pressure chamber is limited by the projected surface area of ​​the piston assembly. Part of the projected surface area is formed by the effective area, which is intended to absorb the first pressure pulse, and another part of the projected surface area is formed by the piston surface located lower than the effective area.

[0011] By means of the design according to the invention, it is possible to transmit the first pressure pulse, which arises directly upon ignition of the pyrotechnic trigger, namely before the pressure within the pressure chamber acts on the piston surface, directly to the projection, via which projection this first pressure pulse is further transmitted (via the piston arrangement) to the contact element, so that the contact element can be placed in a first state of movement or undergoes a first actuation. Preferably, this first state of movement or actuation is oriented according to the actuating movement, namely in the direction of the active position. In other words, by means of the measure according to the invention, a (temporary) intermediate position between the standby position and the active position can preferably be enabled, starting from the activation of the trigger.

[0012] As can be further seen, the effective surface is thus dimensioned such that it provides an engagement surface (for the first pressure pulse) which has a geometry transverse to the pressure direction; in particular, the effective surface can be designed perpendicular to the pressure direction (and / or to the direction of the actuating movement of the piston).

[0013] In particular, the active surface can be arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal central axis of the pyrotechnic trigger and / or perpendicular to a longitudinal central axis of the piston arrangement.

[0014] In this regard, it should be noted that the effective surface is geometrically shaped in such a way that it fulfills the operating principle of the invention (regarding the absorption of the first pressure pulse). Preferably, the effective surface can be arranged centrally opposite the pyrotechnic trigger. This ensures that this effective surface absorbs the first pressure pulse and that it cannot be dissipated via other geometries and areas.

[0015] A central arrangement means that the effective area is arranged approximately in the center of the trigger and below it, or along a propagation of the first pressure pulse in the direction of the piston arrangement.

[0016] Furthermore, the effective surface can preferably be circular or similar to a circle, e.g., elliptical. A circular shape allows for the propagation of a pressure pulse to be absorbed particularly easily. Other geometries have the disadvantage that they include edges or corners, through which the pressure pulse can be diverted and thus cannot be adequately utilized.

[0017] By means of the function according to the invention, a type of “breakaway force” of the contact element (and optionally of the piston arrangement) can be realized, so that the entire system subsequently reacts significantly less sluggishly to the pressure acting on the piston surface and the actuating movement caused thereby, or has a significantly lower resistance in this regard.

[0018] In particular, if the contact element and / or the piston arrangement are secured against unintentional release by means of additional securing elements, e.g. in the form of webs or the like, and these securing elements are intended to be destroyed, deformed or pushed away upon an intentional transfer of the contact element into the operative position, an embodiment according to the invention is particularly advantageous in that the first pressure pulse is used to actuate these securing elements. Instead of such a securing element, however, it can also be provided that the piston arrangement and / or the contact element is held in the standby position with a high static friction resistance or the like. For example, a partial layer with higher static friction can be provided on the inner housing wall opposite the piston arrangement (or the contact element) with respect to the standby position.

[0019] Furthermore, the contact element can be formed integrally with the piston arrangement, so that a respective adjustment of the contact element or the piston arrangement corresponds to an adjustment of the respective other element.

[0020] A further advantage of the design according to the invention is that the pressure force required to adjust the piston arrangement itself can be "dimensioned" to a lesser extent, since the first adjustment or actuation is carried out by means of the pressure pulse, and thus less pressure is required for the further adjustment movement, or a greater scope for selecting the pressure force is possible.

[0021] A switching device according to the invention can be used to establish a connection in the form of an electrical circuit or a short circuit or the like, but also to separate electrical connections or interrupt electrical circuits. The design according to the invention can, for example, also be provided for applying a first, pulse-like separating force to the elements to be separated during a separation, and the further pressure can be used to deform / displace the elements to be separated.

[0022] In one possible embodiment, the projection (in the ready position) can be provided to contact the pyrotechnic trigger via its active surface, so that the projection rests directly against the pyrotechnic trigger. This design enables a particularly reliable, direct transmission of the pressure pulse.

[0023] Alternatively, it can also be provided that the effective surface of the projection (in the ready position) is (at least slightly) spaced from the pyrotechnic trigger. The advantage of this design is that the trigger can spread more effectively with respect to its destruction and has no structural resistance (due to the projection) in this area. Thus, at least an air gap can be provided between the trigger and the effective surface, but a larger gap can also be provided.

[0024] Furthermore, it can be provided that a minimum distance between the pyrotechnic trigger and the effective surface is between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, in particular 0.2 to 5 mm.

[0025] With regard to the arrangement of the projection, it can preferably be provided that the pyrotechnic trigger and the active surface of the projection are arranged superimposed on one another along an adjustment direction of the piston arrangement, with regard to the adjustment from the standby position to the active position, in order to ensure a particularly process-reliable transmission of the first pressure pulse.

[0026] Preferably, a longitudinal center axis of the projection and a longitudinal center axis of the piston assembly can be arranged concentrically with each other. This allows for a particularly uniform introduction of force with respect to the first pressure pulse on the projection in the piston assembly. Preferably, the pyrotechnic trigger can also be designed / arranged concentrically with respect to the respective longitudinal center axes.

[0027] In an advantageous embodiment, the projection can be formed integrally with the piston assembly. Such a design enables particularly reliable transmission of the first pressure pulse and mounting of the projection.

[0028] According to one possible design, the effective area of ​​the projection can be smaller than or equal to the cross-section of the pyrotechnic trigger. This allows the first pressure pulse to be transmitted in a targeted, compact area or section.

[0029] With regard to the geometric conditions, it may further be the case that the effective area has at least 50% of a projected cross-sectional area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger. Preferably, the area of ​​the effective area may be in a range of 70% to 100% of the projected cross-sectional area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger.

[0030] A possible further development provides for the projection to be in the shape of a truncated cone, with a cover surface of the truncated cone being formed by the active surface. A truncated cone-shaped configuration has the advantage that, on the one hand, the first pressure pulse can be transmitted compactly and precisely to the active surface, can be transmitted largely linearly along the axis of the cone shape, and, due to an increasing cross-section caused by the truncated cone shape, has optimized stability for absorbing and transmitting the pressure pulse. Preferably, a base surface of the truncated cone can lie in the region of the piston surface or form the connection area to the piston arrangement.

[0031] An advantageous embodiment provides that the contact element is releasably fixed in the standby position by means of at least one securing element in the housing, wherein the at least one securing element is destroyed, deformed, or displaced by the transmission of the first pressure pulse (preferably by the contact element), so that an adjusting movement into the active position is released. As mentioned at the beginning, such a securing element can be released particularly reliably by means of the measure according to the invention. Such a securing element can be designed in the form of webs or partial holding elements. In one possible embodiment, the securing element can be designed in the form of a supporting (continuous) layer within the housing, which is pierced or severed upon activation.

[0032] According to a possible refinement, the projection can be mounted relative to the piston assembly so that it can be adjusted from a rest position to an actuated position, and the projection can be adjusted into the actuated position by means of the first pressure pulse. Upon adjustment to the actuated position, the first pressure pulse is transmitted from the projection to the contact element. Such a configuration makes it possible to transmit the first pressure pulse only to the contact element without having to overcome the resistance of the piston assembly relative to the housing.

[0033] Preferably, with regard to the application of an electrical switching device according to the invention, it can be provided that the contact element is provided for establishing an electrically conductive connection between at least two electrically conductive elements, wherein the electrically conductive elements are connected to one another by means of the contact element in the operative position.

[0034] Copper, stainless steel, aluminum, coated electrically conductive materials or combinations thereof can preferably be used as the material for the electrically conductive elements.

[0035] The housing parts can preferably be made of insulating material, preferably fiber-reinforced plastic with a high CTI value, for example, polyamide (PA), PPT(A), or PPT. In particular, glass-fiber-reinforced plastic can be used.

[0036] According to a possible refinement, a depression can be formed in the center of the active surface. This depression serves to guide the pressure pulse along the active surface, allowing it to be transmitted or introduced more effectively. The depression can preferably be conical.

[0037] For a better understanding of the invention, it is explained in more detail using the following figures.

[0038] They show in a highly simplified, schematic representation:

[0039] Fig. 1 shows an electrical switching device in perspective view;

[0040] Fig. 2 shows the switching device according to Fig. 1 in an exploded view;

[0041] Fig. 3 shows the switching device according to Fig. 1 in longitudinal section;

[0042] Fig. 4 a) and b) operating states of an electrical switching device according to the invention;

[0043] Fig. 5 a) to c) show an electrical switching device in the form of a separating device; Fig. 6 a) and b) show a possible embodiment of the projection;

[0044] Fig. 7 shows a further embodiment of the piston arrangement;

[0045] Fig. 8 shows a possible design of a safety element of the switching device.

[0046] By way of introduction, it should be noted that in the variously described embodiments, identical parts are provided with identical reference symbols or component designations. The disclosures contained throughout the description can be applied analogously to identical parts with identical reference symbols or component designations. Furthermore, the positional information chosen in the description, such as top, bottom, side, etc., refers to the directly described and illustrated figure, and these positional information must be applied analogously to the new position in the event of a change in position.

[0047] In Fig. 1 and 2 a possible embodiment of an electrical switching device 1 is shown, which, as shown, can be designed in the form of an emergency switching device and already has the features according to the invention.

[0048] Such electrical switching devices 1 preferably have a dust- and liquid-tight housing 2, which may consist of an upper housing part 2a and a lower housing part 2b. The housing parts are preferably made of insulating material, preferably fiber-reinforced plastic with a high CTL value, for example, polyamide (PA), PPT(A), or PPT. In particular, glass-fiber-reinforced plastic can be used.

[0049] Furthermore, at least two electrically conductive elements 15 can be provided, which can be designed, for example, in the form of contact lugs and can be arranged opposite one another. These electrically conductive elements 15 can, as also shown, protrude from the housing 2 by means of contact sections and serve to provide an electrical connection to a circuit to be short-circuited or grounded.

[0050] Consumer.

[0051] The (electrical or signaling) control for triggering the switching device (or the pyrotechnic trigger 4) is preferably carried out via control lines 18, which are sealed and guided into the upper housing part 2a. The housing parts 2a, 2b can be connected by screws as shown. The exploded view in Fig. 2 also shows a seal 20, which can be arranged between the upper housing part 2a and the lower housing part 2b. The contacting sections located outside the lower housing part 2b continue inside the lower housing part 2b in contacting surfaces 19, which are preferably oriented parallel to the longitudinal axis of the housing 2 and which, together with the external contacting sections, form the electrically conductive elements 15. The contacting surfaces 19 are fixed at a distance from one another inside the lower housing part 2b, so that no continuous circuit is formed.Copper, stainless steel, aluminum, coated electrically conductive materials, or combinations thereof can preferably be used as material for the electrically conductive elements 15.

[0052] The closing of the circuit between the contacting surfaces 19 is accomplished, when necessary, by an electrically conductive contact element 7 accommodated in the upper housing part 2a, which can be made, for example, from a copper material of extremely high conductivity, e.g., but not limited to, from Cu-ETP. During normal operation of the circuit or consumer, the contact element 7 is in a standby position 8 without contact with the contacting surfaces 19, which approximately corresponds to the position shown in Fig. 3 and in which the electrically conductive elements 15 are insulated from one another. If necessary (or in an emergency), the contact element 7 is moved into an operative position 9 and is preferably held in this position in a self-locking manner, in which it contacts the contacting surfaces 19 of both electrically conductive elements 15 and thus establishes an electrically conductive connection between these elements 15.

[0053] The displacement of the contact element 7 from the standby position 8 to the active position 9 is effected by the pyrotechnic trigger 4, which can be triggered via the control lines 18 and acts on the contact element 7 via the piston assembly 5. The piston assembly 5 is slidably or adjustably received in a recess of the housing 2, in which the pressure chamber 3 is formed and is delimited by the piston surface 6 within the recess of the housing. The piston assembly 5 preferably comprises a sealing ring, as shown.

[0054] Due to the gas pressure when a propellant charge is ignited in the pressure chamber 3 of the housing 2, the piston assembly 5 is pressed onto the contact element 7 and, together with the contact element, is moved further toward the electrically conductive elements 15, preferably toward the contact surfaces. The propellant charge of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 can be fixed in the housing 2 by casting it into its material, by gluing it in, or the like. Preferably, the propellant charge, including the connection of the control lines 18, is advantageously cast therein using a different material than that of the housing 2. Furthermore, the contact element 7 (regardless of the embodiment shown) can form a component of the piston assembly 5 or be designed as a piston itself, at least at its end facing the pyrotechnic trigger 4, and the propellant charge acts directly thereon.

[0055] To prevent unintentional contact of the electrically conductive elements 15 by the contact element 7, at least one securing element 14 in the form of a retaining part or the like can be arranged inside the housing 2 to inhibit the contact element 7 during its movement from the standby position 8 to the active position 9, preferably oriented counter to a positioning direction 28 of the contact element. The dimensions of the contact element 7 and the securing element 14 are preferably selected such that the contact element 7 remains reliably insulated from the conductive elements 15.

[0056] Until the described displacement of the contact element 7 from the standby position to the operative position, the securing element 14 holds the contact element 7 fixed in the standby position. By means of a projection 10 according to the invention, this fixation can also be released by transmitting the first pressure pulse (I) by destroying, deforming, or displacing the securing element 14, so that the further adjustment of the contact element 7 into the operative position by means of the piston arrangement 5 can take place unhindered by the pressure (P) acting on the piston surface 6.

[0057] The fuse element 14 is preferably made of insulating material, preferably made of plastic with a high CTI value, polyamide (PA), PPT(A), or PTT, with or without fiber reinforcement, to ensure sufficient mechanical strength for securing the contact element 7. The at least one fuse element 14 can be designed as a separate component or as a web or the like formed in the housing 2.

[0058] In the longitudinal section of Fig. 3 through the embodiment of the electrical switching device 1 already shown by way of example in Figs. 1 and 2 and described above, the arrangement of the mentioned components and assemblies is shown in the assembled, operational state, specifically with the contact element 7 in the standby position 8, and according to a preferred embodiment releasably fixed with a securing element 14, wherein by releasing this fixing an adjusting movement into the active position is released.

[0059] It can also be seen here that the contact element 7 can preferably be displaced along a straight path, preferably along the longitudinal axis H of the housing 2, which is vertical here. If necessary, this movement can also include an additional rotation around this axis, so that a helical movement is realized.

[0060] It is also possible to rotate or pivot the contact element 7 about an axis lying transversely to a connecting line of the conductive elements 15 or to guide it on a curved path to the contacting surfaces. For this purpose, the contact element 7 can be attached or formed at one end of a tongue or a lever firmly connected to the housing 2. During the pivoting or any other movement from the standby position into the operative position. According to one possible embodiment, it can be provided that the at least one further electrically conductive element 15 is arranged downstream of the contacting surface 6 of the first electrically conductive element 15 in the standby position at at least a predeterminable angular distance in the direction of rotation.

[0061] Figs. 2 and 3 also show a preferred embodiment of the contact element 7 as a sleeve-shaped component, i.e., as a hollow cylinder with an end face facing the piston assembly 5. Alternatively, the contact element 7 could also be designed as a solid cylinder. The piston assembly 5 can be connected to the contact element 7 via a pin that is inserted into a bore in the end face of the contact element 7 and fixed there.

[0062] A securing element 14 can preferably be inserted into a housing pin extending in the direction of the contact element 7, whereby this can be done by inserting, gluing or pressing into a bore of the housing pin or by casting or molding.

[0063] As shown, the contact element 7 can preferably have recesses 21, by means of which recesses 21 the contact element 7, in its operative position 9, engages the inner sections of the electrically conductive elements 15, preferably on both sides, and thus establishes the electrically conductive connection between the electrically conductive elements 15. The clear width of the recesses 21 is preferably smaller than the thickness of the conductive elements 15 in the region of the contact surfaces 19. The resulting engagement of the contact element 7 with the contact surfaces of the conductive elements 15 also achieves a holding effect that securely fixes the contact element 7 in the operative position.

[0064] As can also be seen, the securing element 14 can be designed as a pin-shaped element with a widened end, with which it rests against the contact element 7. Preferably, the securing element 14 is arranged, at least in the standby position 8, in the region between the electrically conductive elements 15 and the contact element 7.

[0065] The fixation by the securing element 14, which is to be released upon activation, is preferably formed by webs arranged perpendicular to a direction of movement of the contact element 7. The webs preferably form direct support surfaces for the contact element 7. Furthermore, the webs are preferably arranged such that they are not located in the areas of the recesses of the contact element 7 or above the conductive elements 15.

[0066] During the displacement of the contact element 7 into the active position 9 after activation of the pyrotechnic trigger 4, depending on the specific elasticity of the webs and the mechanical strength of the safety element 14, the webs can be elastically deformed. They then rest against the inside of a hollow contact element 7 and, due to the frictional forces, create a holding effect that holds the contact element 7 in the active position. However, it can also be provided that the safety element 14 is destroyed, either by breaking it completely or by breaking off the webs.

[0067] To ensure correct alignment of the contact element 7 (and, if applicable, the securing element 14), an anti-rotation device can preferably be provided between the piston assembly 5 or contact element 7 and the housing, for example, through guide grooves and ridges. For example, the piston assembly 5 can have axial guide elements, as can be seen in Fig. 2.

[0068] Furthermore, according to one possible embodiment, it can be provided that a resistor is integrated in order to prevent excessively rapid discharging or excessive current and / or voltage peaks and the resulting secondary damage when the connection between the conductive elements 15 is closed by the contact element 7. As can also be seen from Fig. 3, it can preferably be provided that the projection 10 is designed in the shape of a truncated cone 13, wherein a cover surface of the truncated cone 13 is formed by the active surface 11. By means of the base surface of the truncated cone, a transition of the truncated cone into the piston arrangement can preferably be formed, or the truncated cone can be formed integrally with the piston arrangement.

[0069] Furthermore, regardless of the illustrated embodiment, it can be provided that a longitudinal center axis VL of the projection 10 (and the active surface) and a longitudinal center axis K of the piston assembly 5 are arranged concentrically to one another. Furthermore, the longitudinal center axis H of the housing, as well as the axis AL of the pyrotechnic trigger 4, can also preferably be arranged concentrically. Furthermore, it can preferably be provided that the pyrotechnic trigger 4 and the active surface 11 of the projection 10 are arranged superimposed along an adjustment direction 28 of the piston assembly 5, with respect to the adjustment from the standby position 8 to the active position 9.

[0070] As mentioned at the beginning, it can be provided that the projection 10, in the ready position 8, touches the pyrotechnic trigger 4 by means of the active surface 11, and thus there is a distance 0 between the pyrotechnic trigger 4 and the active surface 11. Alternatively, it can also be provided that the active surface 11 of the projection 10 (in the ready position 8) is slightly spaced from the pyrotechnic trigger 4, as indicated in Fig. 3. In this case, a minimum distance 12 between the pyrotechnic trigger 4 and the active surface 11 can preferably be between 0.1 mm and 10 mm, in particular 0.2 and 5 mm, e.g., approximately 1 mm. As can also be seen, in both cases the active surface is thus significantly closer to the trigger than to the piston surface 6.

[0071] At this point it should also be mentioned that, regardless of the embodiment shown, the projection or the active surface 11 is preferably designed to be significantly smaller than the remaining piston surface (in cross-section), so that the respective actuating functions are guaranteed. As can be seen from the figures, the active surface 11 can form a circular (or circle-like) surface which, in plan view, is surrounded by an (at least projected) circular piston surface 6, which can also preferably be designed concentrically to one another. Furthermore, a (cross-sectional) surface of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 which is opposite in this regard can also be circular. As can also be seen from the figures as a whole, the active surface 11 can preferably be designed perpendicular to a pressure direction of the first pressure pulse. Furthermore, this can preferably be designed perpendicular to the longitudinal center axis of the piston K orthe longitudinal center axis VL of the projection 10 (as well as the longitudinal center axis of the trigger AL).

[0072] As can also be seen from the figures, the effective surface is preferably arranged in the middle of the trigger or is centered to it.

[0073] With regard to the geometric shape of the active surface 11, this can also have a recess in the center of the projection, by means of which absorption of the first pressure pulse can be promoted.

[0074] For example, an inclination of the effective surface directed towards an edge area of ​​the projection and away from the trigger can be disadvantageous because this would divert the first pressure pulse towards the edge area instead of absorbing it.

[0075] Furthermore, regardless of the embodiment, as can be seen from the figures, along the direction of adjustment (or along the longitudinal center axis), a distance of the active surface 11 relative to the pyrotechnic trigger 4 can be smaller than a distance between the piston surface 6 and the pyrotechnic trigger 4.

[0076] In Fig. 3, regardless of the embodiment shown, a possible recess 29 is indicated, which can be formed on the projection or in the active surface 11. The recess 29 serves to center the first pressure pulse on the active surface. The recess 29 is preferably conical.

[0077] In Fig. 4 a) and b), the respective operating states of an electrical switching device 1 according to the invention upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 are shown with regard to the actuation of the contact element 7, wherein it should be mentioned at this point that this process is shown to illustrate the operating principle according to the invention by means of the switching device according to Fig. 3, but is not limited solely to the other components of the switching device shown.

[0078] In Fig. 4a), the activation or ignition of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 takes place. By means of the detonation, a pulse-like pressure increase occurs, whereby the first pressure pulse I acts directly on the active surface 11 of the projection 10. This is transmitted via the projection 10 directly to the contact element 7 (or also to the piston arrangement 5 in the case of an integral design shown) and causes a first shock-like actuation or movement, preferably in the direction of the active position 9. In addition, by means of this actuation or movement by the first pressure pulse I, the fixation of the contact element 7 provided by the securing element 14 is released, for example by breaking off the webs 14a of the securing element 14.

[0079] In Fig. 4b), the adjustment of the contact element 7, together with the piston arrangement 5, into the active position 9, whereby an electrically conductive connection of the at least two electrically conductive elements 15 is established and the electrically conductive elements 15 are connected to one another by means of the contact element 7 in the active position 9. As schematically indicated, to adjust the piston arrangement 5, the pressure P generated by the activation of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 also presses on the piston surface 6 of the piston arrangement 5, so that the contact element 7 is moved into the active position 9. As further shown in Fig.4b) is indicated by dashed lines, the webs 14a of the securing element 14 can also be designed to be elastically deformable, so that in the active position 9 they exert an inhibiting effect on the contact element 7, such that the contact element 7 is held with respect to its setting direction in the active position 9 against a return to the standby position 8.

[0080] As can be further seen from Fig. 4a) and b), the projection 10 is acted upon by means of the first pressure pulse I before the pressure P acts on the piston surface 6 of the piston arrangement 5.

[0081] In Fig. 5a to c, a possible embodiment of an electrical switching device 1 according to the invention in the form of a separating device is shown roughly schematically, in which the contact element 7 is provided for separating at least one existing electrically conductive connection when it is transferred from the standby position 8 into the active position 9.

[0082] The separating device also comprises a housing 2 with a pressure chamber 3 formed therein, in which a pyrotechnic trigger 4 is accommodated, as well as a piston arrangement 5 arranged opposite, wherein the pressure chamber 3 is delimited by the piston surface 6 of the piston arrangement 5 in the housing 2. The contact element 7 is designed in the form of a separating element which, when moved into the active position 9, severs at least one electrical conductor 22. As shown, the piston arrangement 5 can also comprise an insulator 23 which, when the piston arrangement 5 is adjusted to the original position of the separating section 22a of the electrical conductor 22, is adjusted and insulates the separated conductor sections 22b of the electrical conductor 22 from one another in this position.

[0083] In this case, a first pressure pulse I can again be transmitted to the contact element 7 by means of the projection 10 upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger 4, so that a first shock-like actuation occurs and the pressure subsequently acts on the piston surface 6 of the piston arrangement 5. Thus, at least one securing element 14 can again be provided which is destroyed, deformed or displaced. As indicated by the dashed lines, a plurality of securing elements 14 can be formed or molded onto the inner wall of the housing, for example, which can be destroyed by the first pressure pulse I, as in the example shown. Furthermore, it can also be provided that the actuation by the first pressure pulse I already cuts into or weakens the electrical conductor 22.

[0084] In Fig. 5a, among other things, for general illustration purposes, a contact 10 of the pyrotechnic trigger 4 by means of the active surface 11 of the projection in the ready position 8 is shown.

[0085] As further shown in Figs. 3 to 5, it can be provided that the effective surface 11 of the projection 10 is smaller than or equal to a cross-sectional area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger 4 arranged parallel to the effective surface 11.

[0086] As can also be seen, the effective area 11 can be at least 50% of a projected area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger 4 (or its cross-sectional area transverse to the longitudinal center axis AL), preferably an amount of the effective area is 70% to 100% of the projected area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger.

[0087] In Fig. 5a, as an optional development, a possible inhibiting layer 25 on the inner wall of the housing 2 is indicated by dashed lines. This layer can be used to hold the piston assembly 5 (and / or the contact element 7) in the standby position 8. This layer has a higher static friction resistance than the remaining inner wall of the housing. Such a layer can also be provided, for example, instead of a securing element.

[0088] Fig. 6 shows an electrical switching device 1 with a possible design of a projection 10, in which the projection 10 is adjustably mounted relative to the piston arrangement 5 from a rest position 16 into an actuating position 17.

[0089] The projection 10 can be adjusted into the actuating position 17 by means of the first pressure pulse I, such that upon adjustment to the actuating position 17, the first pressure pulse I is transmitted from the projection 10 to the contact element 7 and the contact element 7 can thus be placed directly into a first actuating state without actuating or displacing the rest of the piston arrangement 5. As shown, the projection 10 can be preloaded into its rest position 16 and, for example, have a retaining ring in the region of the piston surface 6 so that it can be adjusted within a limited range relative to the piston arrangement 5. For the sake of completeness, it should be mentioned that in the standby position 8 of the electrical switching device 1, before the pyrotechnic trigger 4 is activated, the projection 10 is always in the rest position 16.For the sake of completeness, it should also be mentioned that the adjustable projection 10 still fulfills a sealing function with respect to the piston assembly 5, so that the latter does not experience any pressure loss due to the separate adjustment movement. For example, a deformable diaphragm or the like can be provided.

[0090] In a further possible embodiment, the projection 10 can be adjustably mounted relative to the piston arrangement 5 from the rest position 16 into the actuated position 17 and can be formed integrally with the piston arrangement 5, as indicated in Fig. 7. In this regard, the projection 10 (or the piston arrangement 5) can, for example, have individual elastic (deformable) webs 24 or the like, by means of which the projection 10 is formed onto the piston arrangement 5 and can be prestressed or mounted in the direction of its rest position 16. As also indicated, the projection 10 or the piston arrangement 5 can in turn have a limiting means in order to form an end stop or the like for an adjustment range of the projection 10 relative to the piston arrangement 5 (with regard to the adjustment from the rest position 16 into the actuated position 17).

[0091] Furthermore, Fig. 7 shows a possible embodiment of the projection 10 in the form of a cylinder. Fig. 8 shows a roughly schematic representation of another possible embodiment of an electrical switching device 1, in particular an emergency switching device. In the illustrated embodiment, a safety element 14 is designed in the form of an insulating layer 26, by means of which insulating layer the (conductive) contact element 7 is kept spaced and insulated from the electrically conductive elements 15 (in the standby position 8).

[0092] Upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger, the insulation layer 26 is severed and subsequently a connection is established with the electrically conductive elements 15 (at least in the active position), wherein a first actuation for the severing of the insulation layer takes place by means of the action of the first pressure pulse.

[0093] The contact element 7 or at least one further line section 27 attached to the contact element can also be embedded in the insulation layer 26, and thus form an integral unit with it in the standby position, and optionally also with the piston arrangement 5. The insulation layer is preferably embedded in the housing (not shown).

[0094] The line section 27 can also be connected to a further electrical contact arranged outside the housing or to a further electrically conductive element (e.g. via lines not shown), so that, for example, the two electrically conductive elements 15 shown are applied (and connected) to the same potential, and the line section 27 or the contact element 7 connected thereto is provided for contacting the two electrically conductive elements 15 with the further electrically conductive element in the active position.

[0095] Figures 5 to 8 show further and possibly independent embodiments of the electrical switching device, wherein the same reference numerals or component designations are used for the same parts as in the preceding figures 3 and 4. To avoid unnecessary repetition, reference is made to the detailed description in the preceding figures.

[0096] The embodiments show possible embodiments, whereby it should be noted at this point that the invention is not limited to the specifically illustrated embodiments thereof, but rather various combinations of the individual embodiments with each other are also possible and this possibility of variation lies within the skill of the person skilled in the art in this technical field due to the teaching of technical action by means of the objective invention.

[0097] All information on value ranges in this description is to be understood as including any and all sub-ranges thereof, e.g. the information 1 to 10 is to be understood as including all sub-ranges starting from the lower limit of 1 and the upper limit of 10, ie all sub-ranges begin with a lower limit of 1 or greater and end with an upper limit of 10 or less, e.g. 1 to 1.7, or 3.2 to 8.1, or 5.5 to 10.

[0098] For the sake of clarity, it should finally be pointed out that, in order to better understand the structure, some elements have been shown out of scale and / or enlarged and / or reduced in size.

[0099] Reference symbol list

[0100] 1 Electrical switching device H Longitudinal center axis of the housing

[0101] 2 Housing K Longitudinal center axis of the piston

[0102] 3 Pressure chamber AL Longitudinal center axis of the trigger

[0103] 4 pyrotechnic trigger VL longitudinal center axis of the projection

[0104] 5 Piston arrangement

[0105] 6 Piston area

[0106] 7 Contact element

[0107] 8 Standby position

[0108] 9 Effective position

[0109] 10 lead

[0110] 11 Effective area

[0111] 12 smallest distance

[0112] 13 truncated cone

[0113] 14 Fuse element

[0114] 15 electrically conductive elements

[0115] 16 Resting position

[0116] 17 Actuation position

[0117] 18 control lines

[0118] 19 contact surfaces

[0119] 20 Seal

[0120] 21 Recess

[0121] 22 electrical conductors

[0122] 23 Insulator

[0123] 24 elastic bars

[0124] 25 inhibitory layer

[0125] 26 Insulation layer

[0126] 27 Line s section

[0127] 28 Setting direction

[0128] 29 Deepening

[0129] P pressure

[0130] I first printing impulse

Claims

Patent claims 1. Electrical switching device (1), comprising - a housing (2), wherein a pressure chamber (3) is formed in the housing (2) and a pyrotechnic trigger (4) is accommodated in the pressure chamber (3), and a piston arrangement (5) arranged opposite the pyrotechnic trigger (4), wherein the pressure chamber (3) is delimited by a piston surface (6) of the piston arrangement (5) in the housing (2); and wherein, by means of activation of the pyrotechnic trigger (4), a pressure (P) in the pressure chamber (3) acts on the piston surface (6), so that the piston arrangement (5) can be adjusted by means of the pressure (P), - a contact element (7), wherein the contact element (7) is mounted in the housing (2) in a standby position (8) and, upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger (4), can be transferred together with the piston arrangement (5) from the standby position (8) into an active position (9); characterized in that the piston arrangement (5) has at least one projection (10), wherein the projection (10) extends from the piston surface (6) in the direction of the pyrotechnic trigger (4) and has an active surface (11) facing the pyrotechnic trigger (4), and wherein the projection (10) is provided for receiving a first pressure pulse (I) at the active surface (11) upon activation of the pyrotechnic trigger (4), and for transmitting the first pressure pulse (I) to the contact element (7).

2. Electrical switching device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the active surface (11) is circular.

3. Electrical switching device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the projection (10) in the standby position (8) contacts the pyrotechnic trigger (4) by means of the active surface (11).

4. Electrical switching device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the active surface (11) of the projection (10) is spaced from the pyrotechnic trigger (4) in the standby position (8).

5. Electrical switching device (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that a minimum distance (12) between the pyrotechnic trigger (4) and the active surface (11) is between 0.1 mm and 10 mm.

6. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the active surface (11) is arranged perpendicular to a longitudinal central axis (AL) of the pyrotechnic trigger (4) and / or perpendicular to a longitudinal central axis (K) of the piston arrangement.

7. Electrical switching device according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the pyrotechnic trigger (4) and the active surface (11) of the projection (10) are arranged superimposed on one another along an adjustment direction of the piston arrangement (5), with respect to the adjustment from the standby position (8) to the active position (9).

8. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that the active surface (11) is arranged in a center of the pyrotechnic trigger (4).

9. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that a longitudinal center axis (VL) of the projection (10) and a longitudinal center axis (K) of the piston arrangement (5) are arranged concentrically to one another.

10. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that the projection (10) is formed integrally with the piston arrangement (5).

11. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the effective surface (11) of the projection (10) is smaller than or equal to a cross-sectional area of ​​the pyrotechnic trigger (4) arranged parallel to the effective surface (11).

12. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the projection (10) is designed in the shape of a truncated cone (13), wherein a cover surface of the truncated cone (13) is formed by means of the active surface (11).

13. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that the contact element (7) is releasably fixed in the standby position (8) by means of at least one securing element (14) in the housing (2), wherein the at least one securing element (14) is destroyed, deformed or displaced by means of the transmission of the first pressure pulse (I).

14. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 13, characterized in that the projection (10) is mounted adjustably relative to the piston arrangement (5) from a rest position (16) into an actuating position (17) and the projection (10) is adjustable into the actuating position (17) by means of the first pressure pulse, wherein during the adjustment into the actuating position (17) the first pressure pulse (I) is transmitted from the projection (10) to the contact element (7).

15. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the contact element (7) is provided for establishing an electrically conductive connection between at least two electrically conductive elements (15), the electrically conductive elements being connected to one another by means of the contact element (7) in the operative position (9).

16. Electrical switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that a recess (29) is formed in a center of the active surface (11).

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