Circuit breaker

Abstract

A circuit breaker is disclosed. The circuit breaker according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a circuit breaker body in which a space is formed; a terminal, which is coupled to the circuit breaker body, is electrically connected to the outside, and is at least partially exposed to the outside of the circuit breaker body in one direction; and a cooling device which is coupled to the circuit breaker body so as to be adjacent to the terminal, and which receive heats generated from the terminal, wherein the cooling device includes: a cooling frame which surrounds the terminal from the outside, and in which a cooling fluid flow space is formed; and a coupling through-hole which penetrates the inside of the cooling frame in the one direction and which accommodates the terminal; and a connection member which is coupled to the cooling frame, and which communicates with each of the outside and the cooling fluid flow space so as to form an inlet flow path and an outlet flow path of the cooling fluid.

Description

crossing gate

[0001] The present invention relates to a circuit breaker, and more particularly, to a circuit breaker having a structure capable of effectively cooling generated heat.

[0002] A circuit breaker is a device that allows or blocks external current flow through the contact and separation of fixed and movable contacts. The fixed and movable contacts provided in the circuit breaker are each connected to an external power source or load so that current can flow through them.

[0003] The movable contact is provided in the circuit breaker so that it can move toward or away from the fixed contact. When the movable contact and the fixed contact are in contact, the circuit breaker can be connected to an external power source or load.

[0004] At this time, the fixed or movable contact is electrically connected to an external power source or load via a terminal provided in the circuit breaker. In other words, the terminal mediates the connection between the fixed or movable contact and the external power source or load. While the circuit breaker electrically connects the external power source and load, heat is generated in the terminal.

[0005] If the heat generated in the terminal is not dissipated, it will remain in the circuit breaker. If the heat remains in the circuit breaker for an extended period of time, the heat could damage the circuit breaker's components. In particular, since the terminal is made of a current-conducting material and is relatively vulnerable to heat, there is a risk of thermal damage to the terminal.

[0006] In this case, there is a risk that the electrical connection reliability between the terminal and the external power source or load may be reduced. Furthermore, the connection reliability between the terminal and the fixed or movable contact may also be reduced, potentially reducing the circuit breaker's operational reliability.

[0007] Therefore, technologies are required to quickly and effectively dissipate heat generated in circuit breakers, especially terminals.

[0008] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-178483 discloses a blocking device. Specifically, the device can cool an arc generated in an internal space using a cooling body positioned within the internal space. The prior art discloses that the arc is quickly cooled by the cooling body, thereby preventing damage to the internal components of the blocking device.

[0009] However, the blocking device disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art merely provides a method for cooling the heat of the arc. The above-mentioned prior art fails to provide a method for cooling a configuration in which the blocking device is electrically connected to an external power source or load.

[0010] Korean Patent Document No. 10-2599372 discloses a distribution panel equipped with a cooling unit. Specifically, the distribution panel includes a cooling unit positioned at an air outlet connecting the interior space and the exterior, thereby discharging air from the interior space to the exterior of the housing.

[0011] However, the distribution board equipped with a cooling unit disclosed in the above-mentioned prior art document only provides a method for cooling components located within the internal space. The above-mentioned prior art document does not provide a method for cooling components exposed to the outside of the housing, such as terminals.

[0012] Japanese Patent Publication No. 2023-178483 (December 14, 2023)

[0013] Korean Patent No. 10-2599372 (November 2, 2023)

[0014] The present invention is intended to solve the above-mentioned problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker having a structure capable of effectively cooling a configuration that is electrically connected to the outside.

[0015] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker having a structure in which a plurality of components that are electrically connected to the outside can each be cooled.

[0016] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker having a structure in which a plurality of components that are electrically connected to the outside can be independently cooled.

[0017] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker having a structure capable of arranging a configuration provided for cooling while minimizing structural changes to other configurations.

[0018] Another object of the present invention is to provide a circuit breaker having a structure in which a fluid for cooling a component electrically connected to the outside is circulated and capable of cooling the component.

[0019] The tasks of the present invention are not limited to the tasks mentioned above, and other tasks not mentioned will be clearly understood by those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains from the description below.

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, a circuit breaker is provided, comprising: a circuit breaker body having a space formed therein; a terminal coupled to the circuit breaker body, electrically connected to the outside, and at least partially exposed to the outside of the circuit breaker body along one direction; and a cooling device coupled to the circuit breaker body adjacent to the terminal and configured to receive heat generated from the terminal, wherein the cooling device includes: a cooling frame surrounding the terminal from the outside and having a cooling fluid flow space formed therein; a coupling through-hole formed through the inside of the cooling frame along the one direction and accommodating the terminal; and a communication member coupled to the cooling frame and communicating with the outside and the cooling fluid flow space, respectively, to form an inlet channel and an outlet channel for cooling fluid.

[0021] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided, wherein the cooling frame comprises a first cooling frame constituting one side of the one direction and surrounding the one side of the one direction among the parts of the terminal; and a second cooling frame constituting the other side of the one direction and surrounding the other side of the one direction among the parts of the terminal.

[0022] In addition, the first cooling frame may be provided with a circuit breaker that is positioned on one side in the height direction, has a connecting opening formed through the one direction to communicate with the cooling fluid flow space and the outside, and is coupled with the connecting member.

[0023] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided in the above-mentioned coupling opening, which is located on the upper side of the first cooling frame.

[0024] In addition, a circuit breaker may be provided in which the cooling frame includes a cooling frame outer periphery that surrounds the cooling fluid flow space on the outside in the width direction and the height direction; and a cooling frame inner periphery that is positioned inwardly spaced from the cooling frame outer periphery and surrounds the cooling fluid flow space on the inside in the width direction and the height direction.

[0025] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided that surrounds the coupling through hole from the outside in the width direction and height direction within the cooling frame.

[0026] In addition, a circuit breaker may be provided in which a plurality of the above-described communication members are provided, one of the plurality of the above-described communication members forming the inlet path of the cooling fluid, and another of the plurality of the above-described communication members forming the outlet path of the cooling fluid.

[0027] Additionally, a circuit breaker may be provided, which includes a partition member positioned between the plurality of communicating members and dividing the cooling fluid flow space into a plurality of spaces each communicating with the plurality of communicating members.

[0028] At this time, the cooling frame includes a cooling frame outer periphery that surrounds the cooling fluid flow space from the outside in the width direction and the height direction; and a cooling frame inner periphery that is positioned spaced inwardly from the cooling frame outer periphery and surrounds the cooling fluid flow space from the inside in the width direction and the height direction, and the partition member may be provided as a circuit breaker that extends between one inner side of the cooling frame outer periphery and one inner side of the cooling frame inner periphery.

[0029] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided in which a plurality of the above-mentioned connecting members are arranged at the same position along the height direction.

[0030] In addition, a circuit breaker may be provided in which a plurality of terminals are provided, the plurality of terminals are spaced apart from each other in different directions, and the plurality of cooling devices are provided, the circuit breaker being positioned adjacent to each of the plurality of terminals.

[0031] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided in which a plurality of the cooling devices are each fluidly connected to the outside to receive the cooling fluid, and the flow rate and flow velocity of the cooling fluid provided to the plurality of the cooling devices are independently controlled.

[0032] In addition, the terminal may be provided in multiple numbers, the multiple terminals may be spaced apart in the height direction, and the cooling device may be provided with a circuit breaker positioned adjacent to the terminal positioned at the lower side among the multiple terminals.

[0033] At this time, a circuit breaker may be provided in which one part of the cooling device is formed of an electrically insulating material, and another part of the cooling device is formed of a thermally conductive material, and the area or volume of the one part of the cooling device is larger than the area or volume of the other part of the cooling device.

[0034] According to the above configuration, the circuit breaker according to the embodiment of the present invention can effectively cool a configuration that is electrically connected to the outside.

[0035] In addition, according to the above configuration, the circuit breaker according to the embodiment of the present invention can cool a plurality of components that are electrically connected to the outside.

[0036] In addition, according to the above configuration, the circuit breaker according to the embodiment of the present invention can have a plurality of components that are electrically connected to the outside and can be cooled independently.

[0037] In addition, according to the above configuration, the circuit breaker according to the embodiment of the present invention can be configured to provide cooling while minimizing structural changes to other configurations.

[0038] In addition, according to the above configuration, the circuit breaker according to the embodiment of the present invention can cool the configuration by circulating a fluid for cooling the configuration that is electrically connected to the outside.

[0039] The effects of the present invention are not limited to the effects described above, and should be understood to include all effects that can be inferred from the detailed description of the present invention or the composition of the invention described in the claims.

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the circuit breaker of Figure 1.

[0042] Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the circuit breaker body and terminal provided in the circuit breaker of Figure 1.

[0043] Figure 4 is a front view showing the circuit breaker body and terminal of Figure 3.

[0044] Fig. 5 is a perspective view showing a cooling device provided in the circuit breaker of Fig. 1.

[0045] Figure 6 is a front view showing the cooling device of Figure 5.

[0046] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view showing the configuration of the cooling device of Figure 5.

[0047] Fig. 8 is a perspective view showing a part of the configuration of the cooling device of Fig. 5.

[0048] Fig. 9 is an exploded perspective view showing a part of the cooling device of Fig. 5.

[0049] Fig. 10 is a front view showing a second cooling frame provided in the cooling device of Fig. 5.

[0050] Fig. 11 is a BB cross-sectional view (a) and a CC cross-sectional view (b) illustrating the flow of cooling fluid formed in the cooling device of Fig. 5.

[0051] Fig. 12 is a DD cross-sectional view illustrating the flow of cooling fluid formed in the cooling device of Fig. 5.

[0052] Fig. 13 is a cross-sectional view taken along the line AA illustrating the flow of cooling fluid formed in the circuit breaker of Fig. 1.

[0053] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily practice the present invention. The present invention may be implemented in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. To clearly explain the present invention, parts irrelevant to the description are omitted in the drawings, and the same reference numerals designate identical or similar components throughout the specification.

[0054] The words and terms used in this specification and claims should not be construed as limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a way that is consistent with the technical idea of ​​the present invention, in accordance with the principles by which the inventor can define terms and concepts in order to best explain his or her invention.

[0055] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, and do not represent all of the technical ideas of the present invention, so there may be various equivalents and modified examples that can replace the configuration at the time of filing of the present invention.

[0056] In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0057]

[0058] The term "fluid communication" as used herein refers to one or more elements being fluidly connected to one another. In one embodiment, the fluid communication may be formed by elements such as conduits, pipes, or piping. In the following description, the fluid communication may be used in the same sense as one or more elements being "fluidly connected" to one another.

[0059] The term "conduction" as used herein refers to the connection of one or more elements to enable the transmission of current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, the conduction may be formed in a wired form, such as by a conductor element, or in a wireless form, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID. In one embodiment, the conduction may also include the meaning of "communication."

[0060] The term "fluid" used in the following description refers to any form of material that can flow and change shape or volume, etc., due to an external force. In one embodiment, the fluid may be a liquid such as water or a gas such as air.

[0061] The terms “upper side,” “lower side,” “left side,” “right side,” “front side,” and “rear side” used in the following description are to be understood with reference to the coordinate system depicted throughout the attached drawings.

[0062]

[0063] Referring to FIGS. 1 and 2, a circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is electrically connected to an external power source and a load. The circuit breaker (10) can allow or block electrical current between the external power source and the load.

[0064] To this end, the circuit breaker (10) may include a fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown) that are constantly electrically connected to the outside. When the fixed contact (not shown) and the movable contact (not shown) are electrically connected, an external power source and load can be electrically connected. When the movable contact (not shown) moves and is electrically disconnected from the fixed contact (not shown), the electrical current to the external power source and load can be cut off.

[0065] At this time, the circuit breaker (10) can be electrically connected to an external power source or load by a specific configuration (i.e., a terminal (200) to be described later). As the operation of the circuit breaker (10) continues, a large amount of heat may be generated in the configuration.

[0066] If the generated heat is not sufficiently cooled, there is a risk that the above configuration or other configurations of the circuit breaker (10) may be thermally damaged. In this case, there is a risk that the circuit breaker (10) may malfunction, thereby reducing the reliability of performing its original role, i.e., allowing or blocking the flow of external power and load.

[0067] Accordingly, by providing a cooling device (300) adjacent to the above-described configuration according to an embodiment of the present invention, the generated heat can be quickly and effectively cooled. Accordingly, the above-described configuration can be quickly cooled, preventing thermal damage. Consequently, damage to the circuit breaker (10) can be prevented, and operational reliability can be improved.

[0068] At this time, the cooling device (300) is located outside the circuit breaker (10). Therefore, even when the cooling device (300) is provided, no design or layout change of other components of the circuit breaker (10) is required.

[0069] In addition, the circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may include the above configuration, i.e., a plurality of terminals (200). In this case, the plurality of terminals (200) may be independently cooled by a cooling device (300).

[0070] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, the circuit breaker (10) includes a circuit breaker body (100), a terminal (200), and a cooling device (300).

[0071] The circuit breaker body (100) constitutes the outer appearance of the circuit breaker (10). The circuit breaker body (100) is coupled with other components of the circuit breaker (10), in the illustrated embodiment, a terminal (200) and a cooling device (300). The circuit breaker body (100) supports the terminal (200) and the cooling device (300).

[0072] The circuit breaker body (100) can accommodate different configurations of the circuit breaker (10). For example, the circuit breaker body (100) can accommodate the fixed contacts (not shown) and movable contacts (not shown) described above. Therefore, the circuit breaker body (100) can be said to function as a housing for the circuit breaker (10).

[0073] Although not shown, the circuit breaker body (100) can be accommodated in an external cradle (not shown) in a retractable manner. The circuit breaker body (100) can be connected to an external power source and load in a current-carrying manner while accommodated in the cradle (not shown).

[0074] The circuit breaker body (100) is coupled with a terminal (200). The circuit breaker body (100) is coupled with the terminal (200) on one side in the longitudinal direction, the front side in the illustrated embodiment. The circuit breaker body (100) can support the terminal (200) so that it is at least partially exposed to the outside.

[0075] The circuit breaker body (100) is coupled with a cooling device (300). The circuit breaker body (100) is coupled with the cooling device (300) on one side in the longitudinal direction, the front side in the illustrated embodiment. At this time, the cooling device (300) may be coupled to the outer side of the circuit breaker body (100).

[0076] In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the circuit breaker body (100) includes a main frame (110) and an arc extinguishing member (120).

[0077] The main frame (110) constitutes the outer shape of the circuit breaker body (100). A space is formed inside the main frame (110) to accommodate other components provided in the circuit breaker (10).

[0078] An arc extinguishing member (120) is coupled to the main frame (110). In the illustrated embodiment, it is coupled to the upper side of the main frame (110) in the height direction. The main frame (110) supports the arc extinguishing member (120) so that the arc extinguishing member (120) is at least partially exposed to the outside.

[0079] The main frame (110) is coupled to the terminal (200). The main frame (110) can support the terminal (200) such that at least a portion thereof is accommodated therein, and the other portion thereof is exposed to the outside of the main frame (110).

[0080] The main frame (110) is coupled to a cooling device (300). The main frame (110) can support the cooling device (300) so that the cooling device (300) is exposed to the outside and positioned adjacent to the terminal (200).

[0081] The main frame (110) constitutes the outer shape of the circuit breaker body (100) and may have any shape that can be combined with other components to support them. In the illustrated embodiment, the main frame (110) has a polygonal column shape having a length in the front-back direction, a width in the left-right direction, and a height in the up-down direction.

[0082] The arc extinguishing member (120) is configured to extinguish an arc formed by a fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown) housed inside the main frame (110) being spaced apart from each other.

[0083] The arc extinguishing member (120) is positioned adjacent to the fixed contact (not shown) and the movable contact (not shown) to form a path for extinguishing and discharging the generated arc. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing member (120) is positioned on one side of the main frame (110) in the longitudinal direction, i.e., on the upper side of the front.

[0084] A plurality of arc extinguishing members (120) may be provided. A plurality of arc extinguishing members (120) may be arranged adjacent to a plurality of fixed contacts (not shown) or a plurality of movable contacts (not shown), respectively, to form a path for extinguishing and discharging the generated arc.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, four arc extinguishing members (120) are provided, including a first arc extinguishing member (121), a second arc extinguishing member (122), a third arc extinguishing member (123), and a fourth arc extinguishing member (124). The first to fourth arc extinguishing members (121, 122, 123, 124) are arranged in parallel along the width direction of the main frame (110), i.e., the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0086] At this time, the first to fourth arc extinguishing members (121, 122, 123, 124) may be positioned on the upper side of the plurality of terminals (200). That is, in the illustrated embodiment, the first to fourth arc extinguishing members (121, 122, 123, 124) are positioned on the upper side of the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d), respectively. This is because, as will be described later, the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) are energized and connected to a plurality of fixed contacts (not shown) and movable contacts (not shown), respectively.

[0087] That is, the number and arrangement of the arc-protection member (120) can be changed corresponding to the number and arrangement of the terminal (200).

[0088] The terminal (200) is a configuration in which the circuit breaker (10) is electrically connected to an external power source and a load. One part of the terminal (200) can be electrically connected to an external power source, and the other part of the terminal (200) can be electrically connected to a load. The one part of the terminal (200) is electrically connected to one of a fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown). The other part of the terminal (200) is electrically connected to the other of the fixed contact (not shown) and the movable contact (not shown).

[0089] Therefore, when a fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown) are brought into contact with each other so as to be electrically conductive, the one part and the other part of the terminal (200) can be electrically conductive with each other. Consequently, an external power source and a load can be electrically connected to each other.

[0090] The terminal (200) is coupled to the circuit breaker body (100). Specifically, the terminal (200) is coupled to the main frame (110), but may be at least partially exposed to the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal (200) is located on one side of the main frame (110) in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the front side.

[0091] As the terminal (200) is electrically connected to an external power source (not shown) or load (not shown), a large amount of heat is generated in the terminal (200). If the heat is left unattended, other components of the terminal (200) and the circuit breaker (10) may be damaged by the heat, which may lower the operational reliability of the circuit breaker (10).

[0092] Accordingly, the circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes an additional component, i.e., a cooling device (300), for effectively cooling the heat generated at the terminal (200). The cooling device (300) is configured to receive the heat generated at the terminal (200) and discharge it to the outside. Accordingly, the terminal (200) is effectively cooled, and the operational reliability of the circuit breaker (10) can be improved.

[0093] The terminal (200) may be formed of a material having high electrical conductivity and rigidity. In one embodiment, the terminal (200) may be formed of copper (Cu) or an alloy material containing copper (Cu).

[0094] A plurality of terminals (200) may be provided. The plurality of terminals (200) may be electrically connected to an external power source and load, as well as a fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown). The plurality of terminals (200) may be spaced apart from each other along the width or height direction of the main frame (110).

[0095] In the illustrated embodiment, four terminals (200) are provided, including a first terminal (200a), a second terminal (200b), a third terminal (200c), and a fourth terminal (200d). The first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) are provided as a pair and are spaced apart from each other in the height direction of the main frame (110), i.e., in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment. The first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the main frame (110), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0096] At this time, first to fourth arc extinguishing members (121, 122, 123, 124) may be arranged on the upper sides of the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d). In addition, first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d), which will be described later, may be arranged on each of the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d).

[0097] Accordingly, the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) can be independently cooled by the first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d). Accordingly, the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) that emit different amounts of heat can be effectively cooled.

[0098] Terminals 1 to 4 (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) differ in their placement, but their structures and functions are identical. Accordingly, in the following description, common parts of terminals 1 to 4 (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) are collectively referred to as terminals (200).

[0099] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, the terminal (200) includes a terminal body (210) and a terminal opening (220).

[0100] The terminal body (210) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the terminal (200). The terminal body (210) is a portion where the terminal (200) is exposed to the outside of the circuit breaker body (100). The terminal body (210) is electrically connected to an external power source or load.

[0101] The terminal body (210) may have any shape that can be electrically connected to an external power source or load. In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal body (210) has a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height, and is a polygonal columnar shape with a terminal opening (220) formed therein.

[0102] At this time, the height of the terminal body (210) may be defined as a first height (H1). In addition, the width of the terminal body (210) may be defined as a first width (W1). The first height (H1) may be formed to be less than or equal to a second height (H2), which is the height of the coupling through-hole (350) of the cooling device (300) to be described later. In addition, the first width (W1) may be formed to be less than or equal to a second width (W2), which is the width of the coupling through-hole (350) of the cooling device (300).

[0103] Accordingly, the terminal body (210) can be penetrated or accommodated in the coupling through hole (350) of the cooling device (300). A detailed description thereof will be provided later.

[0104] In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal body (210) includes a first terminal extension (211), a second terminal extension (212), and a third terminal extension (213).

[0105] The first terminal extension (211) constitutes a portion of the terminal body (210). The first terminal extension (211) is a portion of the terminal body (210) that protrudes outward. In the illustrated embodiment, the first terminal extension (211) is located on the left side of the terminal body (210) and protrudes in the longitudinal direction of the main frame (110), i.e., toward the front. The first terminal extension (211) extends in the height direction of the main frame (110), i.e., in the vertical direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0106] The second terminal extension (212) constitutes another part of the terminal body (210). The second terminal extension (212) is the part where the terminal body (210) is coupled to the circuit breaker body (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the second terminal extension (212) constitutes one longitudinal side of the terminal body (210), i.e., the rear side. The second terminal extension (212) extends in the width direction of the main frame (110), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0107] The second terminal extension (212) is continuous with the first terminal extension (211) and the third terminal extension (213), respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, one longitudinal side of the second terminal extension (212), the left end in the illustrated embodiment, is continuous with the first terminal extension (211). The other longitudinal side of the second terminal extension (212), the right end in the illustrated embodiment, is continuous with the third terminal extension (213).

[0108] At this time, the second terminal extension (212) may be continuous with the first terminal extension (211) and the third terminal extension (213) at a predetermined angle. In one embodiment, the predetermined angle may be a right angle.

[0109] The third terminal extension (213) constitutes the remaining portion of the terminal body (210). The third terminal extension (213) is another portion of the terminal body (210) that protrudes outward. In the illustrated embodiment, the third terminal extension (213) is located on the right side of the terminal body (210) and protrudes in the longitudinal direction of the main frame (110), i.e., toward the front. The third terminal extension (213) extends in the height direction of the main frame (110), i.e., in the vertical direction.

[0110] The first terminal extension (211) and the third terminal extension (213) are arranged facing each other with the terminal opening (220) between them.

[0111] The terminal opening (220) is a space that accommodates any configuration that can electrically connect the terminal (200) to an external power source or load, such as a connector member. The terminal opening (220) can accommodate any configuration in a withdrawable manner.

[0112] A terminal opening (220) is defined by being surrounded by a terminal body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, each widthwise side of the terminal opening (220) is surrounded by a first terminal extension (211) and a third terminal extension (213), respectively. One longitudinal side of the terminal opening (220), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, is surrounded by a second terminal extension (212). The other longitudinal side of the terminal opening (220), the front side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open to form a passage through which any of the above-described configurations are introduced and withdrawn.

[0113] The terminal opening (220) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the terminal body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the terminal opening (220) is formed as a polygonal prism-shaped space having a rectangular cross-section and a vertical height.

[0114] Referring again to FIGS. 1 and 2, a circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a cooling device (300).

[0115] The cooling device (300) is positioned adjacent to the terminal (200) and configured to receive heat generated from the terminal (200). The cooling device (300) can discharge the received heat to the outside of the circuit breaker (10). Accordingly, the terminal (200) can be cooled and overheating can be prevented.

[0116] The cooling device (300) is coupled to the circuit breaker body (100). At this time, the cooling device (300) may be positioned adjacent to the terminal (200) coupled to the circuit breaker body (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the cooling device (300) is positioned adjacent to the terminal (200) on one side of the main frame (110) in the longitudinal direction, i.e., on the lower side of the front.

[0117] A cooling device (300) is positioned adjacent to the terminal (200). The cooling device (300) may be coupled to the terminal (200). In this case, the cooling device (300) may be coupled to the terminal (200) by at least partially surrounding the terminal (200). In one embodiment, the cooling device (300) may be coupled to the terminal (200) by surrounding the terminal (200) in the height direction and the width direction.

[0118] As described above, the terminals (200) may be provided in pairs and spaced apart in the height direction, i.e., in the vertical direction. In this case, the cooling device (300) may be coupled with the terminal (200) located at the lower side. Considering that heat moves from the lower side to the upper side, by coupling the cooling device (300) with the terminal (200) located at the lower side, the amount of heat transferred to the terminal (200) located at the upper side can be minimized.

[0119] The cooling device (300) may be formed at least partially of a material having high thermal conductivity. In one embodiment, the cooling device (300) may be formed at least partially of a material including aluminum (Al), copper, or an alloy thereof. The remaining portion of the cooling device (300) may be formed of an electrically insulating material. In one embodiment, the remaining portion of the cooling device (300) may be formed of a material such as an electrically insulating synthetic resin.

[0120] Accordingly, each part of the cooling device (300) can be formed of different materials.

[0121] That is, among the parts of the cooling device (300), the part positioned adjacent to the terminal (200) and surrounding the terminal (200), the cooling frame inner periphery (313, 323) to be described later, can be formed of a material having high thermal conductivity. Accordingly, the heat generated in the terminal (200) can be effectively transferred to the cooling fluid flowing in the cooling fluid flow space (330) through the cooling frame inner periphery (313, 323).

[0122] Additionally, the remaining portions of the cooling device (300), such as the cooling frame body (311, 321) and the cooling frame outer periphery (312, 322) described later, may be formed of an electrically insulating material. This is because, in general, materials with high thermal conductivity also have high electrical conductivity.

[0123] That is, even if the current flowing through the terminal (200) is partially transmitted to the inner periphery (313, 323) of the cooling frame, random current flow between adjacent terminals (200) can be prevented by the cooling frame body (311, 321) and the cooling frame outer periphery (312, 322) formed of an electrically insulating material.

[0124] In the above embodiment, the cooling device (300) can effectively transfer heat generated at the terminal (200) while blocking current flowing through the terminal (200). As a result, random current flow between adjacent terminals (200) is prevented, thereby improving the operational reliability of the circuit breaker (10).

[0125] At this time, the proportion of the portions of each part of the cooling device (300) formed of electrically insulating material may be higher than the proportion of the portions formed of thermally conductive material. That is, the area or volume of the inner periphery (313, 323) of the cooling frame may be smaller than the sum of the areas or volumes of the cooling frame body (311, 321) and the outer periphery (321, 322) of the cooling frame.

[0126]

[0127] A space in which a cooling fluid flows (i.e., a cooling fluid flow space (330) to be described later) may be formed inside the cooling device (300). The space may be fluidly connected to an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown), respectively.

[0128] Cooling fluid supplied from an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) may be introduced into the cooling device (300). The cooling fluid flows through the space of the cooling device (300) and receives heat generated at the terminal (200). The cooling fluid that has received heat may be discharged to a recovery device (not shown).

[0129] In one embodiment, the cooling fluid may be configured to circulate through an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown), a cooling device (300), and a recovery device (not shown). In the above embodiment, low-temperature cooling fluid may be continuously supplied to the cooling device (300), thereby improving the cooling effect of the terminal (200).

[0130] A plurality of cooling devices (300) may be provided. The plurality of cooling devices (300) may be positioned adjacent to the plurality of terminals (200), respectively, and configured to cool the plurality of terminals (200).

[0131] In the illustrated embodiment, the cooling device (300) includes a first cooling device (300a), a second cooling device (300b), a third cooling device (300c), and a fourth cooling device (300d). The first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) may be spaced apart from each other so as to be parallel in the arrangement direction of the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d), i.e., in the left-right direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0132] The first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) can cool the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d), respectively. At this time, the flow of cooling fluid flowing in each of the first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) can be independently controlled.

[0133] As a result, it will be understood that the first to fourth terminals (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d) can be cooled independently of each other.

[0134] The first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) differ in their placement locations, but their structures and functions are identical. Accordingly, in the following description, the first to fourth cooling devices (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) will be collectively referred to as the cooling device (300) for common elements.

[0135] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 5 to 10, the cooling device (300) includes a first cooling frame (310), a second cooling frame (320), a cooling fluid flow space (330), a communication member (340), and a coupling through hole (350).

[0136] The first cooling frame (310) constitutes a portion of the outer shape of the cooling device (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame (310) constitutes a portion of the front side of the cooling device (300). The first cooling frame (310) partially surrounds the terminal body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame (310) surrounds each side in the width direction and each side in the height direction of the terminal body (210), i.e., the left side, the right side, the upper side, and the lower side.

[0137] The first cooling frame (310) is coupled to the second cooling frame (320). In the illustrated embodiment, one side in the thickness direction of the first cooling frame (310), i.e., the rear side, is coupled to the second cooling frame (320).

[0138] A cooling fluid flow space (330) is partially formed inside the first cooling frame (310). Specifically, a first cooling fluid flow space (331) is formed inside the first cooling frame (310). When the first cooling frame (310) is coupled to the second cooling frame (320), the first cooling fluid flow space (331) can be communicated with the second cooling fluid flow space (332) formed inside the second cooling frame (320).

[0139] The first cooling frame (310) is coupled to a communication member (340). The first cooling fluid flow space (331) formed inside the first cooling frame (310) can be fluidly connected to an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown) by the communication member (340).

[0140] A first cooling frame (310) is partially formed with a coupling through hole (350). Inside the first cooling frame (310), a first coupling through hole (351) is formed penetrating in the thickness direction, in the front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0141] In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame (310) includes a first cooling frame body (311), a first cooling frame outer circumference (312), a first cooling frame inner circumference (313), a coupling opening (314), and a support protrusion (315).

[0142] The first cooling frame body (311) forms the outer shape of the first cooling frame (310). The first cooling frame body (311) is coupled with the second cooling frame body (321). For this purpose, the first cooling frame body (311) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second cooling frame body (321).

[0143] The first cooling frame body (311) partially surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) formed therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame body (311) surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) on the front side.

[0144] A coupling opening (314) is formed through one side in the height direction of the first cooling frame body (311), in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper side. A first coupling through hole (351) is formed through the inside of the first cooling frame body (311).

[0145] The first cooling frame body (311) is coupled with the second cooling frame body (321) and may have any shape that can surround the first cooling fluid flow space (331). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame body (311) has a rectangular cross-section and a height in the front-rear direction, and is a three-dimensional shape with a first coupling through hole (351) formed therein.

[0146] A portion that surrounds the first cooling frame body (311) from the outside in the width and height directions is defined as the first cooling frame outer periphery (312). Another portion that surrounds the first cooling frame body (311) from the inside in the width and height directions is defined as the first cooling frame inner periphery (313).

[0147] The first cooling frame outer periphery (312) is defined as the outer periphery of the first cooling frame body (311). The first cooling frame outer periphery (312) is defined as the outer side in the width direction and height direction of the first cooling frame body (311), i.e., the left, right, upper, and lower outer peripheries in the illustrated embodiment.

[0148] The first cooling frame outer periphery (312) surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame outer periphery (312) surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides.

[0149] The first cooling frame outer periphery (312) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first cooling frame body (311). In addition, the first cooling frame outer periphery (312) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second cooling frame outer periphery (322). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame outer periphery (312) has a height in the front-back direction, and is formed by a plurality of plate-shaped members extending left-right or up-down in a continuous manner.

[0150] A first cooling frame inner periphery (313) is positioned on the inner side in the width and height directions of the first cooling frame outer periphery (312).

[0151] The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) is defined as the inner circumference of the first cooling frame body (311). The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) is defined as the inner side in the width direction and height direction of the first cooling frame body (311), i.e., the left, right, upper, and lower inner circumferences in the illustrated embodiment.

[0152] The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) from the inside. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame inner circumference (313) surrounds the first cooling fluid flow space (331) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides.

[0153] The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) surrounds the first coupling through-hole (351) from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame inner circumference (313) surrounds the first coupling through-hole (351) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides. The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) can surround the terminal (200) accommodated in the first coupling through-hole (351) in the width direction and the height direction.

[0154] Accordingly, it will be understood that the heat generated at the terminal (200) can be transferred to the cooling fluid flowing in the cooling fluid flow space (330) through the first cooling frame inner circumference (313).

[0155] The first cooling frame inner circumference (313) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first coupling through hole (351) or the terminal (200). In addition, the first cooling frame inner circumference (313) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second cooling frame inner circumference (323). In the illustrated embodiment, the first cooling frame inner circumference (313) has a height in the front-back direction, and is formed by a plurality of plate-shaped members extending left-right or up-down in a continuous manner.

[0156] The coupling opening (314) is a portion where the first cooling frame (310) is coupled to the communication member (340). The coupling opening (314) is formed to penetrate the first cooling frame body (311) in the thickness direction, i.e., in the front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment. The communication member (340) can be coupled to the coupling opening (314) by penetrating therethrough. Accordingly, the communication member (340) can be in communication with the first cooling fluid flow space (331).

[0157] The coupling opening (314) can be formed at any position where the communication member (340) can be coupled. In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling opening (314) is located on one side, i.e., the upper side, in the height direction of the first cooling frame body (311).

[0158] As the coupling opening (314) is located on the upper side of the first cooling frame body (311), the cooling fluid can effectively flow in the cooling fluid flow space (330). That is, the cooling fluid provided from an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) will be relatively low temperature.

[0159] Accordingly, the cooling fluid flowing upward can flow downward due to the density difference and self-weight and receive heat generated at the terminal (200). In addition, the cooling fluid flowing downward and receiving heat will have a relatively high temperature. Therefore, the cooling fluid receiving heat can flow upward due to the density difference and be discharged to a recovery device (not shown).

[0160] The coupling opening (314) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the flue member (340). In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling opening (314) is formed as a space in the shape of a disk having a circular cross-section and a thickness in the front-back direction.

[0161] A plurality of coupling openings (314) may be provided. The plurality of coupling openings (314) may be respectively coupled to a plurality of communication members (340). In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling opening (314) includes a first coupling opening (314a) and a second coupling opening (314b). The first coupling opening (314a) and the second coupling opening (314b) are spaced apart from each other in the width direction of the first cooling frame body (311), i.e., in the left-right direction.

[0162] A first communication member (341) is penetrated and connected to the first coupling opening (314a). A second communication member (342) is penetrated and connected to the second coupling opening (314b).

[0163] The support protrusion (315) is coupled with the coupling protrusion (324) provided on the second cooling frame (320). By coupling the support protrusion (315) and the coupling protrusion (324), the coupling distance between the first cooling frame (310) and the second cooling frame (320) can be adjusted. In addition, by the coupling, the coupling between the first cooling frame (310) and the second cooling frame (320) can be stably maintained.

[0164] The support protrusion (315) is located on the inner side of the first cooling frame body (311). In the illustrated embodiment, the support protrusion (315) is formed to protrude from the inner side of the front side of the first cooling frame body (311) toward the rear side. In one embodiment, the protruding length of the support protrusion (315) may be equal to the height of the outer circumference (312) of the first cooling frame or the inner circumference (313) of the first cooling frame.

[0165] Meanwhile, although not shown, the first cooling frame (310) may further include a partition member (not shown) positioned between the first coupling opening (314a) and the second coupling opening (314b). The partition member (not shown) may extend between the first cooling frame outer circumference (312) and the first cooling frame inner circumference (313).

[0166] At this time, the bulkhead member (not shown) may be provided in the form of a plate having a height in the height direction of the first cooling frame (310), that is, a height in the up-down direction, a width in the length direction of the first cooling frame (310), that is, a front-back direction, and a thickness in the width direction of the first cooling frame (310), that is, a left-right direction.

[0167] In the above embodiment, one side in the width direction of the bulkhead member (not shown), i.e., the front side end, may be continuous with the front side inner surface of the first cooling frame body (311). The other side in the width direction of the bulkhead member (not shown), i.e., the rear side end, may be continuous with the rear side inner surface of the second cooling frame body (321).

[0168] In addition, one side in the height direction of the bulkhead member (not shown), i.e., the upper end, may be continuous with the upper inner surface of the first cooling frame outer periphery (312). Accordingly, the bulkhead member (not shown) may physically partition one side, i.e., the left side, where the first coupling opening (314a) is located, and the other side, i.e., the right side, where the second coupling opening (314b) is located, among the parts of the cooling fluid flow space (330).

[0169] In the above embodiment, the cooling fluid introduced through the first communication member (341) coupled with the first coupling opening (314a) may flow through the inner periphery (313, 323) of the cooling frame, rather than directly into the second coupling opening (314b). Accordingly, the amount of heat transferred from the terminal (200) may increase, thereby improving the cooling efficiency of the terminal (200).

[0170] In one embodiment, the other side in the height direction of the bulkhead member (not shown), i.e., the lower end, may be continuous with the upper side of the inner circumference of the first cooling frame (313). In the above embodiment, the upper side of the cooling fluid flow space (330) is physically divided into a plurality of parts each communicating with the first and second coupling openings (314a, 314b). In the above embodiment, all of the introduced cooling fluid may be discharged after circulating through the cooling fluid flow space (330) at least once.

[0171] In another embodiment, the other side in the height direction of the bulkhead member (not shown), i.e., the lower end, may be spaced apart from the upper side of the first cooling frame inner periphery (313) by a predetermined distance. In the above embodiment, the upper side of the cooling fluid flow space (330) is physically divided into a plurality of portions that are mostly in communication with the first and second coupling openings (314a, 314b), respectively. In addition, in one portion of the upper side of the cooling fluid flow space (330) adjacent to the first cooling frame inner periphery (313), the plurality of portions are in communication with each other.

[0172] Accordingly, most of the introduced cooling fluid can be discharged after circulating through the cooling fluid flow space (330) at least once. In addition, the remainder of the introduced cooling fluid can continue to circulate and flow in the cooling fluid flow space (330) through the space formed between the lower end of the bulkhead member (not shown) and the inner circumference of the first cooling frame (313).

[0173] In any case, it is sufficient if the introduced cooling fluid does not flow out immediately, but flows in the cooling fluid flow space (330) and receives heat from the terminal (200).

[0174] The second cooling frame (320) constitutes another portion of the exterior of the cooling device (300). In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame (320) constitutes a rear portion of the cooling device (300). The second cooling frame (320) partially surrounds the terminal body (210). In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame (320) surrounds each side in the width direction and each side in the height direction of the terminal body (210), i.e., the left side, the right side, the upper side, and the lower side.

[0175] The second cooling frame (320) is coupled with the first cooling frame (310). In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the second cooling frame (320) in the thickness direction, i.e., the front side, is coupled with the first cooling frame (310).

[0176] A cooling fluid flow space (330) is partially formed inside the second cooling frame (320). In the illustrated embodiment, a second cooling fluid flow space (332) is formed inside the second cooling frame (320). When the second cooling frame (320) is coupled to the first cooling frame (310), the second cooling fluid flow space (332) can be communicated with the first cooling fluid flow space (331).

[0177] A joining through hole (350) is partially formed in the second cooling frame (320). A second joining through hole (352) is formed in the interior of the second cooling frame (320) in the thickness direction, i.e., in the front-back direction in the illustrated embodiment.

[0178] In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame (320) includes a second cooling frame body (321), a second cooling frame outer circumference (322), a second cooling frame inner circumference (323), and a coupling protrusion (324).

[0179] The second cooling frame body (321) forms the outer shape of the second cooling frame (320). The second cooling frame body (321) is coupled to the first cooling frame body (311). For this purpose, the second cooling frame body (321) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first cooling frame body (311).

[0180] The second cooling frame body (321) partially surrounds a second cooling fluid flow space (332) formed therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame body (321) surrounds the second cooling fluid flow space (332) on the rear side. A second coupling through hole (352) is formed through the interior of the second cooling frame body (321).

[0181] The second cooling frame body (321) is coupled with the first cooling frame body (311) and may have any shape that can surround the second cooling fluid flow space (332). In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame body (321) has a rectangular cross-section and a thickness in the front-rear direction, and is a three-dimensional shape with a second coupling through hole (352) formed therein.

[0182] A portion that surrounds the second cooling frame body (321) from the outside in the width and height directions is defined as the second cooling frame outer periphery (322). Another portion that surrounds the second cooling frame body (321) from the inside in the width and height directions is defined as the second cooling frame inner periphery (323).

[0183] The second cooling frame outer periphery (322) is defined as the outer periphery of the second cooling frame body (321). The second cooling frame outer periphery (322) is defined as the outer side in the width direction and height direction of the second cooling frame body (321), that is, the left, right, upper, and lower outer peripheries in the illustrated embodiment.

[0184] The second cooling frame outer periphery (322) surrounds the second cooling fluid flow space (332) from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame outer periphery (322) surrounds the second cooling fluid flow space (332) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides.

[0185] The second cooling frame outer periphery (322) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second cooling frame body (321). In addition, the second cooling frame outer periphery (322) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first cooling frame outer periphery (312). In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame outer periphery (322) has a height in the front-back direction, and a plurality of rib members extending left-right or up-down are formed continuously with each other.

[0186] A second cooling frame inner periphery (323) is positioned on the inner side in the width and height directions of the second cooling frame outer periphery (322).

[0187] The inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) is defined as the inner circumference of the second cooling frame body (321). The inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) is defined as the inner circumference of the second cooling frame body (321) in the width direction and height direction, that is, the left, right, upper, and lower inner circumferences in the illustrated embodiment.

[0188] The second cooling frame inner circumference (323) surrounds the second cooling fluid flow space (332) from the inside. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cooling frame inner circumference (323) surrounds the second cooling fluid flow space (332) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides.

[0189] The inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) surrounds the second coupling through-hole (352) from the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) surrounds the second coupling through-hole (352) from the left, right, upper, and lower sides. The inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) can surround the terminal (200) accommodated in the second coupling through-hole (352) in the width direction and the height direction.

[0190] Accordingly, it will be understood that the heat generated at the terminal (200) can be transferred to the cooling fluid flowing in the cooling fluid flow space (330) through the inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323).

[0191] The inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the second coupling through-hole (352) or the terminal (200). In addition, the inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the inner circumference of the first cooling frame (313). In the illustrated embodiment, the inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) has a height in the front-back direction, and is formed by a plurality of plate-shaped members extending left-right or up-down in a continuous manner.

[0192] The coupling protrusion (324) is coupled with the support protrusion (315) provided on the first cooling frame (310). As described above, the coupling distance between the first and second cooling frames (310, 320) is adjusted and the coupling force is improved by coupling the coupling protrusion (324) and the support protrusion (315).

[0193] The coupling protrusion (324) is located on the inner side of the second cooling frame body (321). In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling protrusion (324) is formed to protrude toward the front side from the inner side of the front side of the second cooling frame body (321). In one embodiment, the protruding length of the coupling protrusion (324) may be equal to the height of the outer circumference (322) of the second cooling frame or the inner circumference (323) of the second cooling frame.

[0194] The cooling fluid flow space (330) is a space in which cooling fluid delivered from an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) flows. The cooling fluid flows in the cooling fluid flow space (330) and can receive heat generated in the terminal (200). The cooling fluid that has received the heat can be discharged to the outside of the cooling fluid flow space (330). Accordingly, the terminal (200) can be cooled.

[0195] A cooling fluid flow space (330) is formed inside the first and second cooling frames (310, 320). The cooling fluid flow space (330) is surrounded and defined by the first and second cooling frames (310, 320).

[0196] The cooling fluid flow space (330) is communicated with the outside through a communication member (340). Specifically, the cooling fluid flow space (330) can be communicated with the outside by a communication member (340) that is penetratingly connected to a coupling opening (314) that communicates the cooling fluid flow space (330) with the outside.

[0197] The cooling fluid flow space (330) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the first and second cooling frames (310, 320) and the coupling through hole (350). In the illustrated embodiment, the cooling fluid flow space (330) is formed as a three-dimensional space having a rectangular cross-section and a length in the front-back direction, and having a coupling through hole (350) physically partitioned therein.

[0198] The cooling fluid flow space (330) may be divided into a plurality of parts. One part constituting the cooling fluid flow space (330) may be formed inside the first cooling frame (310). Another part constituting the cooling fluid flow space (330) may be formed inside the second cooling frame (320).

[0199] In the illustrated embodiment, the cooling fluid flow space (330) includes a first cooling fluid flow space (331) and a second cooling fluid flow space (332).

[0200] The first cooling fluid flow space (331) is formed inside the first cooling frame (310). The first cooling fluid flow space (331) is defined by being surrounded by the first cooling frame body (311), the first cooling frame outer circumference (312), and the first cooling frame inner circumference (313).

[0201] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, one longitudinal side of the first cooling fluid flow space (331), i.e., the front side, is surrounded by the first cooling frame body (311). The outer side of the first cooling fluid flow space (331) in the width direction and height direction, i.e., the outer side of the left, right, upper, and lower sides, is surrounded by the first cooling frame outer periphery (312). The inner side of the first cooling fluid flow space (331) in the width direction and height direction, i.e., the inner side of the left, right, upper, and lower sides, is surrounded by the first cooling frame inner periphery (313).

[0202] The longitudinal other side of the first cooling fluid flow space (331), in the illustrated embodiment the rear side, is formed open. The first cooling fluid flow space (331) is connected to the second cooling fluid flow space (332) through the other side.

[0203] The first cooling fluid flow space (331) is connected to the outside through a coupling opening (314). In addition, the first cooling fluid flow space (331) can be fluidly connected to an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown), respectively, through a communication member (340) penetrating the coupling opening (314).

[0204] The second cooling fluid flow space (332) is formed inside the second cooling frame (320). The second cooling fluid flow space (332) is defined by being surrounded by the second cooling frame body (321), the second cooling frame outer circumference (322), and the second cooling frame inner circumference (323).

[0205] Specifically, in the illustrated embodiment, one longitudinal side of the second cooling fluid flow space (332), i.e., the rear side, is surrounded by the second cooling frame body (321). The outer side of the second cooling fluid flow space (332) in the width direction and height direction, i.e., the outer side of the left, right, upper, and lower sides, is surrounded by the second cooling frame outer periphery (322). The inner side of the second cooling fluid flow space (332) in the width direction and height direction, i.e., the inner side of the left, right, upper, and lower sides, is surrounded by the second cooling frame inner periphery (323).

[0206] The other longitudinal side of the second cooling fluid flow space (332), in the illustrated embodiment the front side, is formed open. The second cooling fluid flow space (332) is connected to the first cooling fluid flow space (331) through the other side.

[0207] The flue member (340) fluidly connects an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown) to the cooling device (300). A pipe or hose, etc., is connected to the flue member (340), so that the flue member (340) can be fluidly connected to the cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and the recovery device (not shown), respectively.

[0208] The communication member (340) is coupled with the first cooling frame (310). Specifically, the communication member (340) is coupled through a coupling opening (314) formed through a front side surface of the first cooling frame (310). The communication member (340) is coupled with a cooling fluid flow space (330) formed inside the first and second cooling frames (310, 320).

[0209] The flue member (340) may be provided in any shape that can communicate with an external cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown) and a cooling fluid flow space (330). In the illustrated embodiment, the flue member (340) is provided in the shape of a pipe that has a circular cross-section and extends in the front-rear direction, but has a hollow space formed therein.

[0210] In the above embodiment, one longitudinal side of the communication member (340), the front side in the illustrated embodiment, may be coupled with the above-described pipe or hose or may be fluidly connected directly to a cooling fluid supply source (not illustrated) or a recovery device (not illustrated). The other longitudinal side of the communication member (340), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, may be formed open to communicate with a cooling fluid flow space (330) (specifically, a first cooling fluid flow space (331)).

[0211] As described above, since the flue member (340) and the connecting opening (314) through which the flue member (340) is penetrated and connected are arranged on the upper side of the first cooling frame (310), the flow effect and heat exchange efficiency of the introduced cooling fluid can be improved.

[0212] A plurality of flue gases (340) may be provided. At least one of the plurality of flue gases (340) may be fluidly connected to a cooling fluid supply source (not shown) to form an inlet passage for the cooling fluid. At least one other of the plurality of flue gases (340) may be fluidly connected to a recovery device (not shown) to form an outlet passage for the cooling fluid.

[0213] In the illustrated embodiment, the flue gas member (340) is provided in pairs, including a first flue gas member (341) and a second flue gas member (342). The first flue gas member (341) is positioned on the left side and is penetrably coupled to the first coupling opening (314a). The second flue gas member (342) is positioned on the right side and spaced apart from the first flue gas member (341) and is penetrably coupled to the second coupling opening (314b). Either of the first and second flue gas members (341, 342) may constitute an inlet passage for the cooling fluid.

[0214] The coupling through-hole (350) is a portion where the cooling device (300) is coupled to the terminal (200). The coupling through-hole (350) can accommodate the terminal (200). Accordingly, the cooling device (300) is arranged to at least partially surround the terminal (200), so that heat generated in the terminal (200) can be effectively transferred to the cooling device (300).

[0215] The coupling penetration hole (350) is formed inside the first and second cooling frames (310, 320). The coupling penetration hole (350) is formed to penetrate in the longitudinal direction of the first and second cooling frames (310, 320), i.e., in the front-back direction. At this time, any communication between the coupling penetration hole (350) and the cooling fluid flow space (330) is blocked.

[0216] The coupling through hole (350) can be defined as a space surrounded by the first and second cooling frame inner peripheries (313, 323). Specifically, the coupling through hole (350) is defined such that each side in the width direction and height direction, i.e., the upper side, the lower side, the left side, and the right side, is surrounded by the first and second cooling frame inner peripheries (313, 323).

[0217] Each longitudinal side of the coupling through-hole (350), the front side and the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, are formed as open. The terminal (200) can be introduced into the coupling through-hole (350) through one longitudinal side of the coupling through-hole (350), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. In addition, a portion of the heat generated in the terminal (200) can be directly released to the outside through the other longitudinal side of the coupling through-hole (350), the front side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0218] The coupling through hole (350) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the terminal (200). In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling through hole (350) is formed as a space in the shape of a square pillar having a height in the vertical direction, a width in the left-right direction, and a length in the front-back direction.

[0219] At this time, the second height (H2), which is the height of the coupling through hole (350), may be greater than or equal to the first height (H1), which is the height of the terminal (200). In addition, the second width (W2), which is the width of the coupling through hole (350), may be greater than or equal to the first width (W1), which is the width of the terminal (200).

[0220] Therefore, the terminal (200) can be easily inserted into the connecting through hole (350).

[0221] The joint penetration hole (350) may be divided into a plurality of parts. Some of the plurality of parts may be formed inside the first cooling frame (310). Others of the plurality of parts may be formed inside the second cooling frame (320).

[0222] In the illustrated embodiment, the coupling through hole (350) includes a first coupling through hole (351) and a second coupling through hole (352).

[0223] The first coupling through hole (351) constitutes one longitudinal side of the coupling through hole (350), the front side in the illustrated embodiment. The first coupling through hole (351) is formed inside the first cooling frame (310). The first coupling through hole (351) is defined by being at least partially surrounded by the inner circumference (313) of the first cooling frame.

[0224] Specifically, the first coupling penetration hole (351) is surrounded by the inner circumference (313) of the first cooling frame on each side in the height direction and width direction, i.e., the upper side, the lower side, the left side, and the right side.

[0225] Each longitudinal side of the first coupling through hole (351), i.e., the front side and the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, are formed open. The first coupling through hole (351) can be communicated with the outside through one longitudinal side, i.e., the front side. The other longitudinal side of the first coupling through hole (351), i.e., the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, is communicated with the second coupling through hole (352).

[0226] The second coupling through hole (352) constitutes the other longitudinal side of the coupling through hole (350), the rear side in the illustrated embodiment. The second coupling through hole (352) is formed inside the second cooling frame (320). The second coupling through hole (352) is defined by being at least partially surrounded by the inner circumference (323) of the second cooling frame.

[0227] Specifically, the second coupling penetration hole (352) is surrounded by the inner circumference of the second cooling frame (323) on each side in the height direction and width direction, i.e., the upper side, the lower side, the left side, and the right side.

[0228] Each longitudinal side of the second coupling through-hole (352), i.e., the front side and the rear side in the illustrated embodiment, are formed to be open. The second coupling through-hole (352) is connected to the first coupling through-hole (351) through one longitudinal side, i.e., the front side. The second coupling through-hole (352) can be connected to the outside through the other longitudinal side, i.e., the rear side.

[0229]

[0230] Referring to FIGS. 11 to 13, a process in which heat generated in a terminal (200) provided in a circuit breaker (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is transferred to a cooling device (300) and the terminal (200) is cooled is illustrated as an example.

[0231] First, referring to FIG. 11, a process in which cooling fluid flows into a cooling device (300) from a cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and heat-exchanged cooling fluid flows out from the cooling device (300) to a recovery device (not shown) is illustrated as an example.

[0232] In the illustrated embodiment, it is assumed that the first communication member (341) located on the left is fluidly connected to a cooling fluid supply source (not shown) to form an inlet passage for the cooling fluid, and the second communication member (342) located on the right is fluidly connected to a recovery device (not shown) to form an outlet passage for the cooling fluid. As described above, such connection relationships can be changed.

[0233] As illustrated in (a) and (b) of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, cooling fluid is introduced through a first communication member (341) that is fluidly connected to a cooling fluid supply source (not shown). The first communication member (341) is coupled with a first coupling opening (341a) formed on the upper side of the first cooling frame (310), so that the cooling fluid introduced into the cooling fluid flow space (330) flows from the upper side to the lower side and receives heat generated at the terminal (200).

[0234] In addition, as shown in (b) of FIG. 11 and FIG. 12, the cooling fluid that has received heat is relatively high temperature, so its density is reduced. In addition, as the inflow of cooling fluid continues, the cooling fluid that has received heat flows upwards, pushed by the inflowing cooling fluid. The cooling fluid that has flowed upwards flows out to a recovery device (not shown) through a second communication member (342) that is coupled with a second coupling opening (341b) formed on the upper side of the first cooling frame (310).

[0235] As described above, the cooling fluid can be continuously supplied to the cooling device (300). Therefore, it can be said that the cooling device (300) circulates the cooling fluid and cools the terminal (200).

[0236] Referring to FIG. 13, a process in which a plurality of cooling devices (300) are respectively coupled to a plurality of terminals (200) and heat generated from the plurality of terminals (200) is transferred is illustrated. Each cooling device (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) can receive heat generated from each terminal (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d).

[0237] At this time, each cooling device (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) can be independently connected to a cooling fluid supply source (not shown) and a recovery device (not shown). That is, cooling fluid can be independently supplied to each cooling device (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d).

[0238] Accordingly, the flow rate or velocity of the cooling fluid circulated in each cooling device (300a, 300b, 300c, 300d) can be adjusted according to the amount of heat generated in each terminal (200a, 200b, 200c, 200d). Accordingly, the cooling effect of the terminal (200) and the operating efficiency of the cooling device (300) can be improved.

[0239]

[0240] Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification, and those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention will be able to easily propose other embodiments by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components within the scope of the same spirit, but this will also be considered to fall within the spirit of the present invention.

[0241] 10: Circuit breaker 100: Circuit breaker body

[0242] 110: Main frame 120: Arc arc member

[0243] 121: First arc extinguishing member 122: Second arc extinguishing member

[0244] 123: Third arc extinguishing member 123: Fourth arc extinguishing member

[0245] 200: Terminal 200a: Terminal 1

[0246] 200b: Terminal 2 200c: Terminal 3

[0247] 200d: Terminal 4 210: Terminal body

[0248] 211: Terminal 1 extension 212: Terminal 2 extension

[0249] 213: Terminal 3 extension 220: Terminal opening

[0250] 300: Cooling device 300a: First cooling device

[0251] 300b: Second cooling unit 300c: Third cooling unit

[0252] 300d: 4th cooling unit 310: 1st cooling frame

[0253] 311: First cooling frame body 312: First cooling frame outer periphery

[0254] 313: First cooling frame inner circumference 314: Joint opening

[0255] 314a: First coupling opening 314b: Second coupling opening

[0256] 315: Support protrusion 320: Second cooling frame

[0257] 321: Second cooling frame body 322: Second cooling frame outer periphery

[0258] 323: Second cooling frame inner circumference 324: Joining projection

[0259] 330: Cooling fluid flow space 331: First cooling fluid flow space

[0260] 332: Second cooling fluid flow space 340: Flue member

[0261] 341: First flue member 342: Second flue member

[0262] 350: Joint penetration hole 351: First joint penetration hole

[0263] 352: Second joint penetration hole H1: First height

[0264] H2: Second height W1: First width

[0265] W2: Second width

Claims

1. Circuit breaker body with space formed inside; A terminal coupled to the circuit breaker body, electrically connected to the outside, and at least partially exposed to the outside of the circuit breaker body along one direction; and A cooling device is coupled to the circuit breaker body so as to be adjacent to the terminal and configured to receive heat generated from the terminal, The above cooling device, A cooling frame surrounding the terminal from the outside and having a cooling fluid flow space formed inside; A connecting through hole formed through the inside of the cooling frame along the above direction and accommodating the terminal; and A cooling frame is coupled to the cooling frame, and includes a communication member that is connected to the outside and the cooling fluid flow space, respectively, to form an inlet and outlet passages for the cooling fluid. crossing gate.

2. In paragraph 1, The above cooling frame, A first cooling frame constituting one side of the one direction and surrounding the one side of the one direction among the parts of the terminal; and comprising a second cooling frame that forms the other side of the one direction and surrounds the other side of the one direction among the parts of the terminal; crossing gate.

3. In paragraph 2, The above first cooling frame, It is located on one side in the height direction, is formed through the one direction to communicate with the cooling fluid flow space and the outside, and includes a coupling opening to which the communication member is coupled. crossing gate.

4. In paragraph 3, The above-mentioned coupling opening is located on the upper side of the first cooling frame, crossing gate.

5. In paragraph 1, The above cooling frame, A cooling frame outer periphery surrounding the cooling fluid flow space from the outside in the width and height directions; and A cooling frame inner periphery is positioned so as to be spaced inwardly relative to the outer periphery of the cooling frame, and includes a cooling frame inner periphery surrounding the cooling fluid flow space on the inner side in the width direction and the height direction. crossing gate.

6. In paragraph 5, The above cooling frame is provided, Surrounding the above-mentioned joint penetration hole from the outside in the width and height directions, crossing gate.

7. In paragraph 1, The above-mentioned flue member is provided in plurality, and one of the plurality of flue members forms the inlet passage of the cooling fluid, and another of the plurality of flue members forms the outlet passage of the cooling fluid. crossing gate.

8. In paragraph 7, A partition member positioned between the plurality of said communicating members and dividing the cooling fluid flow space into a plurality of spaces each communicating with the plurality of said communicating members, crossing gate.

9. In paragraph 8, The above cooling frame, A cooling frame outer periphery surrounding the cooling fluid flow space from the outside in the width and height directions; and The cooling frame inner periphery is positioned so as to be spaced inwardly relative to the outer periphery of the cooling frame, and includes a cooling frame inner periphery surrounding the cooling fluid flow space on the inner side in the width direction and the height direction, The above bulkhead member, Extending between one inner side of the outer periphery of the cooling frame and one inner side of the inner periphery of the cooling frame, crossing gate.

10. In paragraph 7, A plurality of the above-mentioned chimney members are arranged at the same position along the height direction, crossing gate.

11. In paragraph 1, The above terminals are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple terminals are spaced apart from each other in different directions. The above cooling devices are provided in multiple numbers and are positioned adjacent to each of the multiple terminals. crossing gate.

12. In paragraph 11, A plurality of the above cooling devices are each fluidly connected to the outside to receive the cooling fluid, The flow rate and flow velocity of the cooling fluid provided to the plurality of cooling devices are independently controlled. crossing gate.

13. In paragraph 1, The above terminals are provided in multiple numbers, and the multiple terminals are spaced apart in the height direction, The above cooling device, Located adjacent to the terminal located at the lower side among the plurality of terminals, crossing gate.

14. In paragraph 1, A part of the cooling device is formed of an electrically insulating material, and another part of the cooling device is formed of a thermally conductive material, The area or volume of said part of said cooling device is greater than the area or volume of said other part of said cooling device, crossing gate.

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