Switching device and operating device comprising a switching device

Abstract

The invention relates to a switching device (100) which has at least one stationary contact (2, 3), a movable contact (4) and a switching state detection device (18), wherein the switching state detection device (18) has a permanent magnet (17), a magnetic switch (19) and a passive electronic unit (20) connected to the magnetic switch (19); the movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) can be moved together; the magnetic switch (19) is a Hall switch having a Hall sensor (190); and the passive electronic unit (20) is made of one or more passive electrical components. The invention also relates to an operating device (1000) comprising the switching device (100).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] SWITCHING DEVICE AND OPERATING DEVICE WITH A SWITCHING DEVICE

[0003] A switching device and an operating device with a switching device are specified.

[0004] The switching device is designed, in particular, as an electromagnetically acting, remotely operated switch operable by electrically conductive current. The switching device can be activated via a control circuit and can switch a load circuit. In particular, the switching device can be designed as a relay or as a contactor, in particular as a power contactor. Particularly preferably, the switching device can be designed as a gas-filled power contactor.

[0005] One possible application for such switching devices, in particular power contactors, is the opening and disconnecting of battery circuits, for example in motor vehicles such as electrically or partially electrically powered vehicles. These can be, for example, purely battery-powered vehicles (BEV: "Battery Electric Vehicle"), hybrid electric vehicles that can be charged via a socket or charging station (PHEV: "Plug-in Hybrid Electric Vehicle") and hybrid electric vehicles (HEV: "Hybrid Electric Vehicle"). In this case, both the positive and the negative contacts of the battery are usually disconnected using a power contactor. This disconnection occurs during normal operation, for example when the vehicle is at rest, or in the event of a malfunction such as an accident or similar. The main task of the power contactor is to de-energize the vehicle and interrupt the flow of current.In its function as a safety component, a contactor is typically used in combination with a fuse between a battery, such as a lithium-ion battery, and the electric motor and must be able to disconnect the source from the load in the event of a malfunction. Today, such systems operate at voltages of 450 V, for example.

[0006] To check functionality, position detection of a movable switching contact and thus switching state detection is often required. The publication WO 2017 / 129 823 A1 describes position detection using a reed switch. The publications WO 2020 / 043 515 A1 and WO 2022 / 167 463 A1 describe position detection systems with electronic circuits with Hall sensors and additional active semiconductor components, which entails relatively high power consumption. Furthermore, the known solutions do not have reverse polarity protection, so that in order to reduce the risk of reverse polarity of the connecting cables, warning stickers should be attached to the cables to indicate exact compliance with the required connection assignment.

[0007] At least one object of certain embodiments is to specify a switching device, particularly preferably a switching device with a

[0008] Switching state detection device. At least one object of further embodiments is to specify an operating device with the switching device. These objects are achieved by subject matter according to the independent patent claims. Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the subject matter are characterized in the dependent claims and will further emerge from the following description and the drawings.

[0009] According to at least one embodiment, a switching device has at least one fixed contact and at least one movable contact. The at least one fixed contact and the at least one movable contact are provided and configured to switch a load circuit connectable to the switching device on and off. The movable contact is correspondingly movable in the switching device.In particular, the movable contact is movable between a non-switching state, hereinafter also referred to as non-active or switched-off state, and a switching state of the switching device, hereinafter also referred to as active or switched-on state, in such a way that the movable contact is spaced apart from the at least one fixed contact in the non-switching state of the switching device and is thus galvanically isolated, and in the switching state has a mechanical contact to the at least one fixed contact and is thus galvanically connected to the at least one fixed contact.The fact that the switching device has at least one fixed contact can particularly preferably also mean that the switching device has at least two fixed contacts which are arranged separately from one another in the switching device and which, depending on the state of the movable contact, can be electrically connected to one another or electrically separated from one another by the movable contact in the manner described. Parts of the description which refer to at least one fixed contact also apply equally to several and in particular all fixed contacts present in the switching device.

[0010] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a housing in which the movable contact and the at least one fixed contact are arranged. The movable contact can in particular be arranged completely in the housing. The fact that a fixed contact is arranged in the housing can in particular mean that the contact region of the fixed contact, which is in mechanical contact with the movable contact in the switched-on state, is arranged inside the housing. In order to connect a supply line of an electrical circuit to be switched by the switching device, a fixed contact arranged in the housing can be electrically contactable from the outside, i.e. from outside the housing. For this purpose, a fixed contact arranged in the housing can protrude with a part from the housing and have a connection option for a supply line outside the housing.

[0011] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a switching chamber in which the movable contact and the at least one fixed contact are arranged. The switching chamber can in particular be arranged in the housing. The movable contact can particularly preferably be arranged completely in the switching chamber. The fact that a fixed contact is arranged in the switching chamber can in particular mean that at least one contact region of the fixed contact, which is in mechanical contact with the movable contact in the switched-on state, is arranged inside the switching chamber. In order to connect a supply line of an electrical circuit to be switched by the switching device, a fixed contact arranged in the switching chamber can be electrically contactable from the outside, i.e. from outside the switching chamber.For this purpose, a fixed contact arranged in the switching chamber can protrude with a part out of the switching chamber and have a connection option for a supply line outside the switching chamber.

[0012] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a magnet armature, by means of which the movable contact can be moved. The magnet armature can for this purpose have an axis which is connected at one end to the movable contact in such a way that the movable contact can be moved by means of the axis, i.e. when the axis moves, it is also moved by the axis. The axis can in particular protrude into the switching chamber through an opening in the switching chamber. In particular, the switching chamber can have a switching chamber base which has an opening through which the axis protrudes. The magnet armature can be moved by a magnetic circuit in order to bring about the switching processes described above. For this purpose, the magnetic circuit can have a yoke which has an opening through which the axis of the magnet armature protrudes.Furthermore, the magnet armature can have a magnetic core which can be fastened to an end of the axis opposite the movable contact and which is part of the magnetic circuit. A coil which can be connected to a control circuit can generate a magnetic field in the magnetic circuit, by means of which the magnet armature is moved. According to a further embodiment, the contacts are arranged in a gas atmosphere. This can mean in particular that the movable contact is arranged completely in the gas atmosphere and that at least a part of the at least one fixed contact, for example the contact region of the at least one fixed contact, is arranged in the gas atmosphere. For this purpose, the switching device can have a gas-tight region in which the gas atmosphere is kept hermetically sealed against the environment and in which the described components can be arranged.The gas-tight region can be formed by parts of the housing and / or by additional walls and / or by components within the housing. For example, the gas-tight region can be formed by parts of the switching chamber wall and the yoke in combination with additional wall parts, for example with or made of aluminum or stainless steel. In particular, the switching chamber can be arranged in the gas-tight region of the switching device. Furthermore, the magnet armature can also be arranged completely within the gas-tight region. Accordingly, the switching device can particularly preferably be a gas-filled switching device such as a gas-filled contactor. The gas atmosphere can in particular promote the quenching of arcs that can arise between the contacts during switching operations. The gas of the gas atmosphere can preferably have a proportion of at least 50% H2.In addition to the hydrogen, the gas can comprise an inert gas, particularly preferably N2 and / or one or more noble gases. Furthermore, in particular the gas, i.e. at least a part of the gas atmosphere, can be located in the switching chamber. According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a switching state detection device. The switching state detection device can preferably be provided and designed to output a signal with which a switching state of the switching device, i.e. in particular a position of the movable contact, can be determined. In particular, the switching state detection device has a magnetic switch, i.e. a switch which can be switched back and forth between different states by the action of an external magnetic field.The magnetic switch can, in particular, have a first state and a second state, between which switching can be effected by the action of an external magnetic field. Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch can have exactly two states.

[0013] Accordingly, the magnetic switch can be in a state preferably selected from a first state and a second state during operation depending on a magnetic field.

[0014] In particular, the magnetic switch can be an active electronic component, for example in the form of an active semiconductor component. Here and in the following, an active electronic component is defined as an electronic component for which an operating voltage must be provided at a voltage input for operation, such that an active electronic component is not operable if the operating voltage at the voltage input is incorrect or absent. The magnetic switch can therefore be connected to an external voltage supply. The voltage supply can preferably provide a voltage of greater than or equal to 3 V and less than or equal to 24 V. The switching action of the magnetic switch described above and in the following therefore always implies that the magnetic switch is connected to an operating voltage.

[0015] In particular, the magnetic switch is a Hall switch. Accordingly, the terms magnetic switch and Hall switch can be used synonymously below. The magnetic switch can, for example, have or be formed by a circuit that has a Hall sensor with a sensitive surface. The switching state detection device therefore has a Hall sensor. The Hall sensor can be set up and connected in the circuit of the magnetic switch in such a way that when magnetic field lines of a magnetic field at the location of the magnetic switch penetrate the sensitive surface of the Hall sensor, a Hall voltage proportional to the vertical component of the field lines is generated. By means of a comparator in the circuit, the Hall voltage can be compared with a reference voltage.If the Hall voltage and accordingly the magnetic field is below a specified threshold value, a signal output of the circuit and thus of the magnetic switch can be kept in a first state. In particular, an amplifier stage, for example with a transistor, can be provided for this purpose, whereby the amplifier stage can be part of the comparator or can be connected downstream of the comparator. The magnetic switch is therefore in the first state when the magnetic field is smaller than a threshold magnetic field. If the Hall voltage and accordingly the magnetic field exceeds the threshold value, the signal output can be switched to the second state. Accordingly, the magnetic switch is then in the second state when the magnetic field is greater than the threshold magnetic field. The magnetic switch particularly preferably has reverse polarity protection.The polarity reversal protection, which can comprise a diode, for example, can be integrated into the magnetic switch and connected to the voltage input, which is used for connection to a voltage source that provides an operating voltage for operating the Hall switch. The polarity reversal protection can ensure that the magnetic switch is not damaged if, for example, a user accidentally connects the switching state detection device incorrectly to an external voltage source, so that, for example, the connections to the voltage input and a ground input of the magnetic switch are swapped. In addition to polarity reversal protection, the Hall switch can also have ESD protection (ESD: "electrostatic discharge").

[0016] A magnetic field described in connection with a magnetic switch can, even if not explicitly described, always refer to the magnetic field acting at the location of the magnetic switch and, in particular, at the location of the Hall sensor in the magnetic switch. Furthermore, with regard to the functionality of the magnetic switch, the term "magnetic field" or "threshold magnetic field" can be used both previously and below to refer in particular to the component of the field perpendicular to the sensitive surface of the magnetic switch and penetrating the sensitive surface.

[0017] According to a further embodiment, the switching device and in particular the switching state detection device has a permanent magnet. The permanent magnet can particularly preferably be movable together with the movable contact in the switching device. In other words, the movable contact and the permanent magnet can be moved synchronously. The permanent magnet is particularly preferably fastened to the magnet armature. Together with the contacts of the switching device and the magnet armature, the permanent magnet can thus particularly preferably be arranged within the gas-tight region. In particular, the permanent magnet can be arranged at an end of the magnet armature facing away from the movable contact. For example, the permanent magnet can be fastened to the magnetic core and / or to the axis of the magnet armature. The permanent magnet can be a bar magnet or a disc magnet or a ring magnet.Particularly preferably, the permanent magnet can be a ring magnet arranged symmetrically to the axis of the magnet armature.

[0018] By attaching the permanent magnet to the armature, the permanent magnet can be moved by the switching movement of the armature when the switching device is switched. The magnetic switch and the permanent magnet can in particular be arranged in relation to one another in such a way that the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet at the location of the magnetic switch is weaker when the switching device is switched on than when the switching device is switched off. Along the direction of movement of the armature, the magnetic switch can be arranged, for example, below the permanent magnet and thus in the region of the end of the armature to which the permanent magnet is attached. In particular, the magnetic switch can be arranged centrally or slightly offset below the armature and the permanent magnet along an imaginary extension of the axis of the armature.When the switching device is switched on, the permanent magnet can be at a greater distance from the magnetic switch than when the switching device is switched off.

[0019] As described above, the magnetic switch is preferably in the first or second state during operation, depending on a distance between the permanent magnet and the magnetic switch. The permanent magnet can particularly preferably be arranged such that the permanent magnet has a magnetic pole, for example the magnetic south pole, on a side facing the magnetic switch. The magnetic switch can be designed and arranged such that the magnetic switch is in the first or second state, depending on a distance from said magnetic pole. In particular, the magnetic switch and the permanent magnet can be designed and arranged such that the magnetic switch remains in the state caused by the permanent magnet, even during operation of the coil of the switching device, by means of which the magnet armature and thus the movable contact are moved, regardless of stray fields caused by the coil at the location of the magnetic switch.If the switching device is in the inactive state, the permanent magnet can be closer to the magnetic switch than if the switching device is in the active state. Accordingly, purely by way of example, the magnetic switch can be in the first state when the switching device is in the inactive state and in the second state when the switching device is in the active state.

[0020] According to a further embodiment, the magnetic switch generates a first signal in the first state and a different second signal in the second state. The first signal and the second signal can, for example, be different impedance states at the signal output.

[0021] According to a further embodiment, the switching device has a passive electronics unit to which the magnetic switch is connected. The passive electronics unit can preferably be arranged together with the magnetic switch in the housing of the switching device. For example, the passive electronics unit can be fastened together with the magnetic switch to a part of the housing and / or within the housing. For example, the magnetic switch and the passive electronics unit can be arranged and formed on a common circuit board, such as a printed circuit board, and connected to one another, which is arranged in the housing of the switching device. In particular, the passive electronics unit and the magnetic switch can be arranged outside the gas-tight area. This can enable simple contacting of the magnetic switch and the passive electronics unit.

[0022] The passive electronics unit is formed from one or more passive electrical components. In particular, the passive electronics unit, which can also be referred to simply as the electronics unit below, does not have any active electronic component. Accordingly, the switching state detection device particularly preferably has no further active electronic component apart from the magnetic switch, so that the switching state detection device, apart from the magnetic switch, is free of any active electronic component and, apart from the magnetic switch, has only passive electrical components. Resistors, capacitors, coils and diodes are referred to here and below as passive electrical components. As described above, active electronic components, for example, can be considered.Thus, the switching state detection device comprises exactly one active semiconductor component, namely the magnetic switch. Accordingly, the switching state detection device does not comprise any further active semiconductor component, such as an amplifier, a transistor, or an integrated circuit, in addition to the magnetic switch.

[0023] Particularly preferably, the switching state detection device has three terminals that are led out of the housing of the switching device by means of supply lines such as connecting wires and can thus be electrically contacted from outside the housing. A first of the three terminals can form a voltage connection of the switching state detection device, so that an external voltage supply can be connected to the switching state detection device via the associated supply line.

[0024] A second of the three terminals can form a ground terminal of the switching state detection device. The third of the three terminals can form an output terminal of the switching state detection device, at which the output signal of the switching state detection device can be read, for example, by means of an external readout unit.

[0025] The signal output of the magnetic switch can preferably be the output terminal of the switching state detection device or can be connected directly, i.e., without any further interposed electronic or electrical components or elements, to the output terminal of the switching state detection device. In other words, the output signal provided by the magnetic switch at the signal output can directly be the output signal of the switching state detection device, so that the switching state detection device preferably has no further electronic or electrical components or elements between the signal output of the magnetic switch and an external readout electronics unit connectable to the output terminal of the switching state detection device.Since the magnetic switch preferably outputs a first signal or a second signal depending on its state as described above, the switching state of the switching device can be determined by a measurement at the signal output of the magnetic switch and thus at the output terminal of the switching state detection device.

[0026] According to a further embodiment, the electronic unit has a series resistor which is connected in series with the magnetic switch. In particular, the series resistor can be connected to the voltage input of the magnetic switch. In other words, the series resistor can have a first terminal which can be connected to an external voltage source and a second terminal which is directly connected to the voltage input of the magnetic switch. The first terminal of the series resistor can in particular be the voltage terminal of the switching state detection device or can be connected directly, i.e. without further intermediate electronic or electrical components, to the voltage terminal of the switching state detection device. The series resistor can, for example, form a threshold value protection of the Hall sensor. According to a further embodiment, the

[0027] Electronic unit has a first capacitor which is connected in parallel to the magnetic switch. In particular, the first capacitor can be connected between the voltage connection and a ground connection of the switching state detection device and in particular of the electronic unit in parallel to the magnetic switch. The first capacitor is particularly preferably connected between the series resistor and the magnetic switch. This can mean in particular that the first capacitor has a first connection which is connected to the voltage input of the magnetic switch and a second connection which is connected to a ground connection of the magnetic switch. The first connection of the first capacitor can in particular be connected to the second connection of the series resistor and the voltage input of the magnetic switch.Viewed from the voltage connection of the switching state detection device, the first capacitor is preferably arranged parallel to the magnetic switch behind the series resistor. The first capacitor can preferably be provided and configured to protect the magnetic switch, i.e., in particular, for buffering and stabilizing against fluctuations.

[0028] According to a further embodiment, the electronics unit has a second capacitor which is connected to the signal output of the magnetic switch and to ground. This can mean, in particular, that the second capacitor has a first connection which is connected to the signal output of the magnetic switch and a second connection which is connected to the ground connection of the switching state detection device. The second capacitor is particularly preferably connected between the magnetic switch and the output connection of the switching state detection device. The second capacitor can therefore be connected directly to the output connection of the switching state detection device. The second capacitor can preferably be provided and configured to protect the magnetic switch and to stabilize it in the event of voltage fluctuations.

[0029] According to a further embodiment, an operating device has the switching device with the switching state detection device, a pull-up resistor and readout electronics which are connected to the output terminal of the switching state detection device. In particular, the readout electronics can be connected directly to the output terminal of the switching state detection device and can be provided and configured to further process the signal provided by the switching state detection device at the output terminal. The pull-up resistor can particularly preferably be connected between the voltage terminal and the output terminal of the switching state detection device. The pull-up resistor can be a further component in the operating device in addition to the switching device and the readout electronics. In particular, the pull-up resistor can be arranged outside the switching device.Alternatively, the pull-up resistor can also be part of the readout electronics. Furthermore, it can also be possible for the pull-up resistor to be part of the electronics unit and thus part of the switching device. The pull-up resistor can in particular be dimensioned such that the maximum current that flows permanently is less than or equal to a maximum output current of the magnetic switch. Particularly preferably, the switching state detection device can have exactly one resistor in the form of the series resistor described above and exactly two capacitors in the form of the first and second capacitors described above. Alternatively, the switching state detection device can also have exactly two resistors if the pull-up resistor described above is part of the switching state detection device.

[0030] With the switching device described here, it is possible to detect the state of the switching contacts of the switching device, i.e. open or closed, from the output signal of the magnetic switch and thus from the output signal of the switching state detection device, for example by means of the readout electronics. This makes it possible to clearly identify a faulty switching activity, such as a contactor adhesive, for example. Since the state of the switching device is detected electronically, the detection method is resistant to vibrations and other mechanical influences on the switching device, unlike the use of a mechanical switch. By using a Hall switch as opposed to a simple Hall sensor, the influence of magnetic interference fields can be significantly reduced.The switching state detection device described here is considerably more cost-effective than known devices for switching state detection that contain a Hall switch, as it has only a few additional components, which are also only passive components. Because only one active semiconductor component in the form of the magnetic switch is used, power consumption can also be considerably lower compared to known solutions. Further advantages, advantageous embodiments, and further developments emerge from the exemplary embodiments described below in conjunction with the figures.

[0031] Figures 1 and 2 show schematic representations of an embodiment of a switching device,

[0032] Figures 3 and 4 show schematic representations of a switching state detection device and an operating device according to further embodiments.

[0033] In the exemplary embodiments and figures, identical, similar, or similarly acting elements may be provided with the same reference numerals. The illustrated elements and their relative sizes are not to be considered true to scale; rather, individual elements, such as layers, components, structural elements, and regions, may be exaggerated for clarity and / or clarity.

[0034] Figure 1 shows a two-dimensional sectional view of a switching device 100, which can be used, for example, to switch strong electrical currents and / or high electrical voltages and which can be a relay or contactor, in particular a power contactor. The geometries shown are to be understood as examples only and not as limiting, and can also be designed in alternative ways.

[0035] The switching device 100 has two fixed contacts 2, 3 and one movable contact 4 in a housing 1. The movable contact 4 is designed as a contact plate. The fixed contacts 2, 3 together with the movable contact 4 form the switching contacts. As an alternative to the number of contacts shown, other numbers of fixed and / or movable contacts are also possible. The housing 1 primarily serves as contact protection for the components arranged inside and has a plastic or is made thereof, for example PBT or glass fiber filled PBT. The contacts 2, 3, 4 can, for example, be made with or from Cu, a Cu alloy, one or more high-melting metals such as W, Ni and / or Gr, or a mixture of copper with at least one other metal, for example W, Ni and / or Gr.

[0036] Figure 1 shows the switching device 100 in a rest state, in which the movable contact 4 is spaced from the stationary contacts 2, 3, so that the contacts 2, 3, 4 are galvanically isolated from one another. The design of the switching contacts shown, and in particular their geometry, are purely exemplary and should not be understood as restrictive. Alternatively, the switching contacts can also be designed differently. For example, it may be possible for only one of the switching contacts to be stationary.

[0037] The switching device 100 has a movable magnetic armature 5, which essentially carries out the switching movement. The magnetic armature 5 is part of a magnetic circuit and has a magnetic core 6, for example with or made of a ferromagnetic material such as pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy. Furthermore, the magnetic armature 5 has an axle 7, which is guided through the magnetic core 6 and which is firmly connected to the magnetic core 6 at one end of the axle. At the other end of the axle, opposite the magnetic core 6, the magnetic armature 5 has the movable contact 4, which is also connected to the axle 7. The axle 7 can preferably be made with or from stainless steel.

[0038] The magnetic core 6 is surrounded by a coil 8. The magnetic core 6 and the coil 8 are arranged below a yoke 9 which is arranged between a switching chamber 11 with the switching contacts and the coil 8 and through which the axis 7 projects into the switching chamber 1. The yoke 9 can preferably comprise or be made of pure iron or a lightly doped iron alloy. A current flow in the coil 8 which can be switched on from the outside by a control circuit generates a movement of the magnetic core 6 and thus of the entire magnet armature 5 in the axial direction until the movable contact 4 contacts the fixed contacts 2, 3. In the illustration shown, the magnet armature 5 moves upwards for this purpose.The magnetic armature 5 thus moves from a first position, which corresponds to the resting state shown and simultaneously to the isolating, i.e., non-switching, and thus switched-off state, to a second position, which corresponds to the active, i.e., switching, and thus switched-on state. In the active state, the contacts 2, 3, and 4 are galvanically connected to one another. In another.

[0039] In this embodiment, the magnet armature 5 can alternatively also perform a rotary movement. The magnet armature 5 can be designed, in particular, as a tension rod or hinged rod. If the current flow in the coil 8 is interrupted, the magnet armature 5 is moved back to the first position by one or more springs 10. In the illustration shown, the magnet armature 5 thus moves downward again. The switching device 100 is then back in the rest state, in which the contacts 2, 3, 4 are open.

[0040] When the contacts 2, 3, 4 are opened, an arc may occur which may damage the contact surfaces. This may result in the risk that the contacts 2, 3, 4 will "stick" to one another due to welding caused by the arc and will no longer be able to be separated. The switching device 100 then remains in the switched-on state, even though the current in the coil 8 is switched off and the load circuit should therefore be disconnected. In order to prevent the formation of such arcs or at least to assist in the extinguishing of arcs that do occur, the contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged in a gas atmosphere, so that the switching device 100 is designed as a gas-filled relay or gas-filled contactor.For this purpose, the contacts 2, 3, 4 are arranged within the switching chamber 11, formed by a switching chamber wall 12 and a switching chamber base 13, in a gas-tight region 16 formed by a hermetically sealed part. The gas-tight region 16 completely surrounds the magnet armature 5 and the contacts 2, 3, 4, except for parts of the fixed contacts 2, 3 provided for external connection. The gas-tight region 16 and thus also the switching chamber 11 are filled with a gas 14. The gas-tight region 16 is essentially formed by parts of the switching chamber 11, the yoke 9 and additional walls. The gas 14, which can be filled into the gas-tight region 16 through a gas filling nozzle 15 during the manufacture of the switching device 100, can particularly preferably be hydrogen-containing, for example with 50% or more H2 in an inert gas or even with 100% H2, since hydrogen-containing gas can promote the extinguishing of arcs.Furthermore, so-called blowout magnets, i.e. permanent magnets, can be present inside or outside the switching chamber 11, which cause an extension of the arc path and thus can improve the extinguishing of the arcs.

[0041] The switching chamber wall 12 and / or the switching chamber base 13 can, for example, at least partially or completely comprise or be made of a metal oxide ceramic such as Al2O3 or a plastic. Suitable plastics are particularly those with sufficient temperature resistance. For example, the switching chamber can comprise polyetheretherketone (PEEK), a polyethylene (PE) and / or glass-filled polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) as the plastic. Furthermore, the switching chamber wall 12 and / or the switching chamber base 13 can at least partially also comprise a polyoxymethylene (POM), in particular with the structure (CJKOJ n).

[0042] In order to obtain information about the actual position of the movable contact 4 and thus, for example, with regard to a possible contactor adhesive, the switching device 100 has a switching state detection device 18, of which only a permanent magnet 17 is shown in Figure 1 for the sake of clarity. Further components of the switching state detection device 18 are described in connection with Figures 2 and 3. In Figure 2, essentially only those components and parts of the switching device 100 of Figure 1 are shown which form the gas-tight region 16 of the switching device 100, as well as the switching state detection device 18. The switching state detection device 18 of the switching device 100 has, as indicated in Figure 2, as further components to the permanent magnet 17 a magnetic switch 19 and a passive electronics unit 20, which is referred to below as electronics unit 20 for short.Figure 3 shows the switching state detection device 18, with the permanent magnet 17 only indicated. The following description refers equally to Figures 2 and 3.

[0043] The permanent magnet 17 is arranged together with the contacts 2, 3, 4 and the magnet armature 5 within the gas-tight region 16 and is fastened to the magnet armature 5, in particular at the end of the latter facing away from the movable contact 4. As a result, the permanent magnet 17 can be moved by the magnet armature 5 together with the movable contact 4.

[0044] As shown in Figure 2, the permanent magnet 17 can be designed as a ring magnet and fastened to the magnetic core 6 of the magnet armature 5. Alternatively, the permanent magnet 17 can also be designed as a bar or disc magnet and alternatively or additionally also be fastened to the axis 7. As an alternative to the illustrated arrangement of the permanent magnet 17 symmetrically with respect to the axis 7, the permanent magnet 17 can also be arranged and fastened in a different position, in particular if this can improve the functionality described below together with the magnetic switch 19.

[0045] The magnetic switch 19 is arranged together with the electronics unit 20 outside the gas-tight area 16 within the housing of the switching device 100 (not shown in Figure 2). Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch 19 and the electronics unit 20 can be interconnected as described below and, for example, arranged and formed on a common circuit board, as indicated by the dashed line in Figure 2.

[0046] The magnetic switch 19 is a Hall switch as described above in the general part, which has a signal output 191, at which a first or a second signal is provided depending on the state of the magnetic switch. In particular, the magnetic switch 19 is designed as a Hall switch with a circuit having a Hall sensor 190, which is, for example, sensitive to the magnetic south pole of the permanent magnet 17, which is accordingly arranged with its south pole facing the magnetic switch 19. In accordance with the mode of operation described above in the general part, the magnetic switch 19 is otherwise relatively insensitive to interference fields. To operate the magnetic switch 19, it is permanently connected to a voltage supply (not shown) via a voltage input 192, at least during use of the switching device 100, and to ground via a ground connection 193.

[0047] By fastening the permanent magnet 17 to the magnet armature 5, the permanent magnet 17 can be moved, as described above, by the switching movement of the magnet armature 5 when the switching device 100 is switched and, if the switching device 100 is functioning correctly, is moved away from the magnetic switch 19 when the switching device 100 is switched on into its active switching state and back towards the magnetic switch 19 when the switching device 100 is switched off into its inactive switching state, so that the permanent magnet 17 is at a greater distance from the magnetic switch 19 when the switching device 100 is switched on than when the switching device 100 is switched off. Accordingly, the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet 17 at the location of the Hall sensor 190 is weaker when the switching device 100 is switched on than when the switching device 100 is switched off.In particular, at the location of the Hall sensor 190, a first magnetic field strength is present in the switched-off state of the switching device 100 caused by the permanent magnet 17, and a second magnetic field strength is present in the switched-on state of the switching device 100, wherein the magnetic field strength, as described above in the general part, relates in particular to the component of the applied magnetic field to which the Hall sensor 190 is sensitive.

[0048] The Hall sensor 190 is set up and connected in the circuit of the magnetic switch 19 in such a way that when magnetic field lines of a magnetic field at the location of the magnetic switch 19 penetrate the sensitive surface of the Hall sensor 190, a Hall voltage proportional to the vertical component of the field lines is generated. By means of a comparator 194 in the circuit of the magnetic sensor 19, the Hall voltage can be compared with a reference voltage. If the Hall voltage and accordingly the magnetic field is below a specified threshold value, the signal output 191 of the circuit and thus of the magnetic switch 19 can be held in a first state. In particular, an amplifier stage, for example with a transistor, can be provided for this purpose, wherein the amplifier stage can be part of the comparator 194, as indicated in Figure 3, or can be connected downstream of the comparator.Thus, the magnetic switch 19 is in the first state when the magnetic field is smaller than a threshold magnetic field. If the Hall voltage and, accordingly, the magnetic field exceed the threshold value, the signal output 191 can be switched to the second state. Accordingly, the

[0049] Magnetic switch 19 is then in the second state when the magnetic field is greater than the threshold magnetic field.

[0050] Purely by way of example, the state in which the magnetic switch 19 is in the switched-off state of the switching device 100, i.e. when the permanent magnet 17 is a short distance from the magnetic switch 19, is referred to as the first state of the magnetic switch 19, while the state in which the magnetic switch 19 is in the switched-on state of the switching device 100, i.e. when the permanent magnet 17 is a long distance from the magnetic switch 19, is referred to as the second state. In the first state, the magnetic switch 19 generates a first signal and in the second state a different second signal.

[0051] By detecting the state of the magnetic switch 19, for example, by measuring the signal output 191 of the magnetic switch 19, the state of the switching device 100 can be directly determined. In particular, it is easy to detect when the switching device 100 is still in the active state due to a contactor adhesive, even though the current for the coil 8 moving the magnet armature 5 has already been switched off and the switching device 100 should therefore be in the inactive state.

[0052] Particularly preferably, the magnetic switch 19 has a polarity reversal protection 195. The polarity reversal protection 195, which may comprise a diode, for example, can be integrated into the magnetic switch 19 and connected to the voltage input 192. The polarity reversal protection 195 can ensure that the magnetic switch 19 is not damaged if, for example, a user accidentally connects the switching state detection device 18 incorrectly. In addition to the polarity reversal protection 195, the magnetic switch 19 can also have, for example, ESD protection (ESD: "electrostatic discharge").

[0053] As previously mentioned, the switching state detection device 18 further comprises a passive electronic unit 20, which is connected to the magnetic switch 19. The passive electronic unit 20 is formed exclusively from passive electrical components. Accordingly, the switching state detection device 18 comprises no further active electronic component apart from the magnetic switch 19, so that the switching state detection device 18, apart from the magnetic switch 19, is free of any active electronic component and, apart from the magnetic switch 19, comprises only passive electrical components.

[0054] The electronics unit 20 and thus the switching state detection device 18 has three connections which are led out of the housing of the switching device by means of supply lines such as connecting wires and can be electrically contacted from outside the housing. A first of the three connections forms an output connection 181 of the switching state detection device 18, at which the output signal of the switching state detection device 18 can be read out, for example, by means of an external readout unit. A second of the three connections forms a voltage connection 182 of the switching state detection device 18, so that an external voltage supply can be connected to the switching state detection device 18 via the associated supply line. The third of the three connections forms a ground connection 183 of the switching state detection device 18.

[0055] The signal output 191 of the magnetic switch 19 is preferably the output terminal 181 of the switching state detection device 18 or, as indicated in Figure 3, is connected directly, i.e. without further intermediate electronic or electrical components or elements, to the output terminal 181 of the switching state detection device 18. Thus, the output signal provided by the magnetic switch 19 can directly be the output signal of the switching state detection device 18, so that the switching state detection device 18 preferably has no further electronic or electrical components or elements between the signal output 191 of the magnetic switch 19 and an external readout electronics unit connectable to the output terminal 181 of the switching state detection device 18.

[0056] The electronics unit 20 also has a series resistor 200 which is connected in series with the magnetic switch 19. In particular, the series resistor 200 is connected to the voltage input 192 of the magnetic switch 19, so that the series resistor 200 has a first terminal which can be connected to an external voltage source and a second terminal which is directly connected to the voltage input 192 of the magnetic switch 19. The first terminal of the series resistor 200 can in particular be the voltage terminal 182 of the switching state detection device 18 or is connected directly, i.e. without any further electronic or electrical components connected in between, to the voltage terminal 182 of the switching state detection device 18. The series resistor 200 can, for example, have a resistance value of 100 ohms and form a threshold protection for the magnetic sensor 19.

[0057] Furthermore, the electronics unit 20 has a first capacitor 201 which is connected in parallel to the magnetic switch 19. In particular, the first capacitor 201 is connected between the voltage connection 182 and the ground connection 183 in parallel to the magnetic switch 19. As shown, the first capacitor 201 is connected between the series resistor 200 and the magnetic switch 19, so that the first capacitor 201 has a first connection which is connected to the voltage input 192 of the magnetic switch 19, and a second connection which is connected to the ground connection 193 of the magnetic switch 19. The first connection of the first capacitor 201 is connected in particular to the second connection of the series resistor 200 and the voltage input 192 of the magnetic switch 19.Viewed from the voltage terminal 182 of the switching state detection device 18, the first capacitor 201 is arranged parallel to the magnetic switch 19 behind the series resistor 200. The first capacitor 201 can, for example, have a capacitance of 10 nF and can preferably be provided and configured to protect the magnetic switch 19, i.e., in particular, for buffering and stabilizing against fluctuations.

[0058] Furthermore, the electronic unit 20 has a second

[0059] Capacitor 202 which is connected to ground with the signal output 191 of the magnetic switch 19, so that the second capacitor 202 has a first connection which is connected to the signal output 191 of the magnetic switch 19, and a second connection which is connected to the ground connection 183 of the switching state detection device 18. Accordingly, the second capacitor 202 is connected between the magnetic switch 19 and the output connection 181 of the switching state detection device 18. The second capacitor 202 is thus directly connected to the output connection 181 of the switching state detection device 18. The second capacitor 202 can, for example, have a capacitance of 4.7 nF and can preferably be provided and configured to protect the magnetic switch 19 and to stabilize it in the event of voltage fluctuations.

[0060] Figure 4 shows an operating device 1000 which has the switching device 100 with the switching state detection device 18 described above, a pull-up resistor 300 and readout electronics 400 which is connected to the output terminal of the switching state detection device. For the sake of clarity, in the switching state detection device 18 only the permanent magnet 17, the magnetic switch 19 and the electronics unit 20 as well as the terminals 181, 182, 183 are provided with reference numerals. In particular, the readout electronics 400 is connected directly to the output terminal 181 of the switching state detection device 18. The readout electronics 400 is provided and configured to further process the signal of the magnetic switch 19v provided by the switching state detection device 18 at the output terminal 181.As indicated, the pull-up resistor 300 is particularly preferably connected between the voltage terminal 182 and the output terminal 181 of the switching state detection device 18 and can be a further, separate component in addition to the switching device 100 and the readout electronics 400. In particular, the pull-up resistor 300 can be arranged outside the switching device 100.

[0061] Alternatively, the pull-up resistor 300 can also be part of the readout electronics 400. Furthermore, it is also possible for the pull-up resistor 300 to be part of the electronic unit 20 and thus part of the switching device. The pull-up resistor 300 can, in particular, be dimensioned such that a maximum current flows continuously that is less than or equal to a maximum output current of the magnetic switch.

[0062] In the switching device 100 described here, the switching state detection device 18 can particularly preferably comprise, in addition to the magnetic switch 19, exactly one resistor in the form of the series resistor 200 and exactly two capacitors in the form of the first and second capacitors 201, 202. Furthermore, the switching state detection device 18 can also comprise exactly two resistors if the previously described pull-up resistor 300 is part of the switching state detection device 18.

[0063] The features and exemplary embodiments described in conjunction with the figures can be combined with one another according to further exemplary embodiments, even if not all combinations are explicitly described. Furthermore, the exemplary embodiments described in conjunction with the figures can alternatively or additionally comprise further features according to the description in the general part.

[0064] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein. Rather, the invention encompasses any novel feature and any combination of features, including, in particular, any combination of features in the claims, even if this feature or combination itself is not explicitly stated in the claims or embodiments.

[0065] Reference symbol list

[0066] I Housing

[0067] 2 , 3 fixed contact

[0068] 4 movable contact

[0069] 5 magnet armatures

[0070] 6 magnetic core

[0071] 7 Axis

[0072] 8 coil

[0073] 9 yoke

[0074] 10 springs

[0075] II Switching chamber

[0076] 12 Switching chamber wall

[0077] 13 Switching chamber base

[0078] 14 Gas

[0079] 15 Gas filling nozzle

[0080] 16 gas-tight area

[0081] 17 Permanent magnet

[0082] 18 Switching state detection device

[0083] 19 magnetic switches

[0084] 20 passive electronic unit

[0085] 100 switching device

[0086] 181 Output connector

[0087] 182 Voltage connection

[0088] 183 Ground connection

[0089] 190 Hall sensor

[0090] 191 Signal output

[0091] 192 Voltage input

[0092] 193 Ground connection

[0093] 194 Comparator

[0094] 195 Reverse polarity protection

[0095] 200 series resistor

[0096] 201 first capacitor 202 second capacitor

[0097] 300 pull-up resistor

[0098] 400 readout electronics

[0099] 1000 operating device

Claims

Patent claims 1. Switching device (100) comprising - at least one fixed contact (2, 3), one movable contact (4) and - a switching state detection device (18), wherein - the switching state detection device (18) permanent magnets (17), a magnetic switch (19) and a passive electronic unit (20) connected to the magnetic switch (19), - the movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) are movable together, - the magnetic switch (19) is a Hall switch with a Hall sensor (190) is and - the passive electronic unit (20) is formed from one or more passive electrical components.

2. Switching device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the switching state detection device (18) has no further active electronic component apart from the magnetic switch (19).

3. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a circuit with the Hall sensor (190) and a comparator (194).

4. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a reverse polarity protection (195).

5. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the magnetic switch (19) has a signal output (191) which is directly connected to an output terminal (181) of the switching state detection device (18) or which is the output terminal (181) of the switching state detection device (18).

6. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) has a series resistor (200) which is directly connected to a voltage input (192) of the magnetic switch (19).

7. Switching device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the series resistor (200) is directly connected to a voltage terminal (182) of the switching state detection device (18).

8. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) has a first capacitor (201) which is connected in parallel to the magnetic switch (19).

9. Switching device (100) according to claim 8 and claim 6 or 7, wherein the first capacitor (201) is connected between the series resistor (200) and the magnetic switch (19).

10. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the passive electronic unit (20) comprises a second capacitor (202) which is connected to a Signal output (191) of the magnetic switch (19) is connected to ground.

11. Switching device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second capacitor (202) is connected between the magnetic switch (19) and an output terminal (181) of the switching state detection device (18).

12. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching state detection device (18) has the magnetic switch (19) and exactly one resistor in the form of a series resistor (200) and exactly two capacitors (201, 202).

13. Switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switching device (100) has a magnet armature (5) and the movable contact (4) and the permanent magnet (17) are movable together by means of the magnet armature (5).

14. Switching device (100) according to the preceding claim, wherein the permanent magnet (17) is arranged at an end of the magnet armature (5) facing away from the movable contact (4).

15. Operating device (1000) comprising - a switching device (100) according to one of the preceding claims, - a pull-up resistor (300) and - a readout electronics (400), wherein the readout electronics (400) is connected directly to the output terminal (181) of the switching state detection device (18) is connected and the pull-up resistor (300) is connected between the voltage terminal (182) and the output terminal (181) of the switching state detection device (18).

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