Electromechanical switching mechanism with intermediary stationary contact(s)

Abstract

Apparatuses, electromechanical switching devices, electromechanical switching mechanisms, and methods of utilizing electromechanical switching mechanisms are described in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In a particular embodiment, an electromechanical switching mechanism is described that includes two stationary contacts, a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts, and N-1 linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts. In this example embodiment, the N moveable contacts are configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-1 linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-1 linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

Description

ELECTROMECHANICAL SWITCHING MECHANISM WITH INTERMEDIARY STATIONARY CONTACT(S)BACKGROUND

[0001] High voltage direct current (DC) switching devices such as contactors and fuses are critical functional and safety elements in electric vehicles and energy storage applications. Their switching and current carry capabilities impose performance limits at the system level. Electrification and energy storage markets drive demand for higher performance and efficiency at system level, which require DC contactors and fuses with higher switching and current carry capabilities than existing products.SUMMARY

[0002] Apparatuses, electromechanical switching devices, electromechanical switching mechanisms, and methods of utilizing electromechanical switching mechanisms are described in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure. In a particular embodiment, an electromechanical switching mechanism is described as having tw o stationary contacts, a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts, and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts. In this example embodiment, the N moveable contacts are configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0003] In another embodiment, a method of operating an electromechanical switching device is disclosed that includes applying a current to a coil in an electromechanical switching device. In this example embodiment, the electromechanical switching device includes two stationary contacts, a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts, and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts. The N moveable contacts are configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0004] The foregoing and other objects, features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the following more particular descriptions of exemplary embodiments of theinvention as illustrated in the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numbers generally represent like parts of exemplary embodiments of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0005] FIG. 1 A is a diagram illustrating an example of an electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0006] FIG. IB is a diagram illustrating another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0007] FIG. 2A is a diagram illustrating another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] FIG. 2B is a diagram illustrating another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0009] FIG. 3A is a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0010] FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 3 A.

[0011] FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 3 A.

[0012] FIG. 3D is a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 3 A.

[0013] FIG. 4A is a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 4A.

[0015] FIG. 4C is a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 4A.

[0016] FIG. 4D is a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 4A.

[0017] FIG. 5A is a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating atop view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5 A.

[0019] FIG. 5C is a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5 A.

[0020] FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5 A.

[0021] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a method of operating an electromechanical switching mechanism according to at least one embodiment of the present disclose.

[0022] FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating another method of operating an electromechanical switching mechanism according to at least one embodiment of the present disclose.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] The terminology used herein for the purpose of describing particular examples is not intended to be limiting for further examples. Whenever a singular form such as “a”, “an” and “the” is used and using only a single element is neither explicitly nor implicitly defined as being mandatory, further examples may also use plural elements to implement the same functionality. Likewise, when a functionality is subsequently described as being implemented using multiple elements, further examples may implement the same functionality using a single element or processing entity . It will be further understood that the terms “comprises”, “comprising”, “includes” and / or “including”, when used, specify the presence of the stated features, integers, steps, operations, processes, acts, elements and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, processes, acts, elements, components and / or any group thereof.

[0024] It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being “connected” or “coupled” to another element, the elements may be directly connected or coupled or via one or more intervening elements. If two elements A and B are combined using an “or”, this is to be understood to disclose all possible combinations, i.e., only A, only B, as well as A and B. An alternative wording for the same combinations is “at least one of A and B”. The same applies for combinations of more than two elements.

[0025] Accordingly, while further examples are capable of various modifications and alternative forms, some particular examples thereof are shown in the figures and will subsequently be described in detail. However, this detailed description does not limit further examples to the particular forms described. Further examples may cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the disclosure. Like numbers refer to like or similar elements throughout the description of the figures, which may be implemented identically or in modified form when compared to one another while providing for the same or a similar functionality.

[0026] The most common configuration for a high-power DC switching device contains a single movable contact and two contact gaps. When the movable contact travels from aclosed state to an open state, an arc is drawn across both contact gaps. The total arc voltage is approximately 2x of the arc voltage in each gap. The arc extinguishes when the arc voltage becomes greater than the system voltage applied across main terminals. Practical constraints such as cost, size, weight, and actuator power consumption all limit the maximum voltage for pow er switching applications, making it difficult to extend existing single movable contactor and fuse designs to significantly higher voltages.

[0027] Higher voltage switching devices use large actuators and arc runners to enable switching of higher voltages. These devices tend to have slow' actuator movement and long arc duration, high pow er consumption for the solenoid actuators, large size and weight, high contact and bulk resistance, and high cost.

[0028] Manufacturers in energy storage and conversion systems are pushing for higher system voltage at or above 1500VDC to save overall system cost. However, compact power switching devices at these elevated voltages generally do not exist due to bulkiness of the mechanism required to establish sufficient contact gap for achieving required arc voltage.

[0029] To address the foregoing, embodiments according to the present disclosure describe a mechanism having N movable contacts and 2N contact gaps, with a voltage rating being increased N times over existing design. Devices utilizing the inventive mechanism can have higher voltage capability w ith a compact and efficient structure. The total arc voltage is increased over the single contact gap pair design by a factor of N. with N being the number of pairs of contact gaps.

[0030] This mechanism provides improved ability’ for devices to break high voltage arc for a given contact separation distance without needing to increase the length of travel or the speed of separation. This allows the design of contactors and fuses with significantly improved load breaking capabilities and high voltage ratings. Competing designs at the same voltage rating require greater contact gap and travel, which translates to larger, less efficient, and higher cost devices. Compact device size will also allow low er contact resistance and enabling hermetic sealing of the switching mechanism, which further enhances high voltage performance characteristics. Existing devices in the same high voltage range are non- hermetic with higher electrical resistance.

[0031] A description of the embodiments begins with FIG. 1A. FIG. 1 A sets forth an example electromechanical switching mechanism 100 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The mechanism 100 includes stationary contacts 102, 104, a linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120, and two moveable contacts 112. 114 that are electrically isolated from each other and attached to a common moveable carrier110. The stationary7contacts 102, 104 are main contacts that connect to a high voltage circuit.

[0032] The mechanism is configured to switch the moveable contacts 1 12, 114 between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the moveable contacts 112, 114 are separated from the linked pair of intermediary stationary' contacts 120 and the stationary' contacts 102, 104. In the closed state, the moveable contacts 112, 114 are in contact with the linked pair of intermediary stationary’ contacts 120 and the stationary contacts 102, 104. To switch the states of the moveable contacts 112, 1 14, the moveable carrier 110 may be coupled to a device, such as an actuator assembly (not pictured), that is configured to move the moveable carrier 110 towards or away from the stationary contacts 102, 104 and the linked pair of intermediary stationary’ contacts 120.

[0033] For example, an actuator assembly may include an actuator affixed to a plunger shaft and disposed within an actuator cavity7surrounded by a solenoid. In this example of an actuator assembly, the plunger shaft extends from the actuator in the actuator cavity7and interfaces with the moveable carrier. The actuator assembly may also include a plunger spring that is configured to apply a bias force against the actuator and a separator to keep the moveable contacts out of contact with the stationary7contacts 102, 104 in the non-actuated (open) state.

[0034] Continuing with this example, to switch from the open state to the closed state, a current may be applied to the solenoid that causes the solenoid to generate a magnetic field, which in turn causes the plunger shaft (and thus the moveable carrier) to move towards the stationary' contacts. To switch from the closed state to the open state, the current to the solenoid is turned off or reduced, such that the solenoid no longer generates an electromagnetic field having enough force on the actuator to overcome the bias force applied by the plunger spring. Although this example utilizes a solenoid actuator assembly, readers of skill in the art w ill realize that separation of the moveable contacts 1 12, 114, the linked pair of intermediary7stationary contacts 120, and the stationary7contacts 102, 104 may controlled by other methods and components, including, but not limited to, springs, pyrotechnic charges, blowoff force, and magnetic forces.

[0035] As the moveable contacts 112, 1 14 separate from the linked pair of intermediary stationary' contacts 120 and the stationary' contacts 102, 104, an electrical arc may form between the moveable contacts 112, 114, the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120, and stationary contacts 102, 104, such that the electrical connections between the moveable contacts 112, 114, the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120, and thestationary contacts 102, 104 are maintained. For example, the arc may form because the current has sufficient voltage to ionize the surrounding air, and the plasma formed by heating the gas between the contacts to very high temperature is conductive, so that the current continues to flow even though the contacts are open. To complete the switch from the closed state to the open state, the electrical arc between the moveable contacts 112, 114, the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120. and the stationary contacts 102, 104 must be quenched.

[0036] In this example embodiment having one linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120 and two moveable contacts 112, 114, there are two pairs of contact gaps between the moveable contacts 112, 114, the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120, and the stationary contacts 102. 104. The first pair of contact gaps is between the first moveable contact 112, the first main stationary contact 102, and one contact of the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120. The second pair of contact gaps is between the second moveable contact 114, the second main stationary contact 104, and the other contact of the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120.

[0037] By having two pairs of contact gaps, the total gap distance and arc voltage will increase by a factor of approximately two compared to existing devices having a single pair of contact gaps. This mechanism provides improved ability for devices to break a high voltage arc for a given contact separation distance without needing to increase the length of travel or the speed of separation. Incorporating this mechanism into contactors and fuses will enable significantly improved load breaking capabilities and high voltage ratings. Competing designs at the same voltage rating require greater contact gap and travel, which translates to larger, less efficient, and higher cost devices.

[0038] For further explanation, FIG. IB sets forth an illustration of another electromechanical switching mechanism 101 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The mechanism 101 of FIG. IB includes the components of the mechanism 100 of FIG. 1A enclosed in a hermetically sealed enclosure 182 filled with pressurized arc suppression gas, such as hydrogen and / or nitrogen gas 180.

[0039] In this example embodiment, blowout magnets 150. 152 are positioned around and surrounding the enclosure 182. In a particular embodiment, at least one blowout magnet of the plurality of blow out magnets is positioned betw een one stationary contact of the two stationary contacts and one moveable contact of the N moveable contacts. The blowout magnets 150, 152 create a magnetic field that generates a force on the electric arc in a direction perpendicular to the direction of cunent flow of the arc. That is, the magnetic fieldgenerated by the blowout magnets stretches and thus weakens the arc between the moveable contacts 112. 114, the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 120, and the stationary contacts 102, 104. The stronger the magnetic field intensity, the faster the electric arc will stretch (blowout), leading to faster current interruption, and less damage to both the switching mechanism, device, and applications circuits.

[0040] When combined with the use of blowout magnets and the hermetically sealed enclosure filled with pressurized hydrogen gas, pressurized nitrogen gas. or a pressurized mixture of hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas, the mechanism described will multiply the arc voltage gains from these features, leading to significantly higher load breaking and high voltage capabilities.

[0041] As shown in FIG. 2A and 2B, the mechanisms 100, 101 of FIGs. 1A and IB may be modified in mechanisms 200, 201 to include N pairs of moveable contacts 112, 114, 216 and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts 120, 222, 224. This results in 2N contact gaps. As in FIG. 1A, IB, the N movable contacts 112, 114, 216 in mechanisms 200, 201 are electrically isolated from each other and attached to the common movable carrier 110.Readers of skill in the art will realize that N can be any number, such as for example, 2, 3. 4. or more.

[0042] Compared to existing devices having a single pair of contact gaps, the total gap distance and arc voltage in these mechanisms will increase by a factor of approximately N. The voltage rate of change during contact separation will also be increased due to the addition of paired gaps, leading to a reduction in arc duration and an improvement in load breaking capability' compared to a single pair of gaps. This mechanism can be implemented in power switching devices such as contactors and fuses, with the movable carrier and contacts typically driven by forces of spring, inertia, latch, electromagnet, pyrotechnic, contact blow-off, gravity, or a combination thereof.

[0043] For further explanation, FIG. 3A sets forth a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism 300 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 3B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the electromechanical switching mechanism 300 of FIG. 3A. FIG. 3C is a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism 300 of FIG. 3 A. FIG. 3D sets forth a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 3 A.

[0044] Similar to the mechanism 101 of FIG. IB, the mechanism 300 includes N (N=2) pairs of moveable contacts 312, 314, N-l linked pair of intermediary stationary' contacts 320, twostationary contacts 302, 304, and two blowout magnets 350, 352. This results in 2N contact gaps. Each linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts includes two intermediary stationary contacts 369 with each intermediary stationary contact 369 having a first side 368 and a second side 367. The first side 368 is configured for coupling to a moveable contact and each of the second sides 367 of the linked pairs of intermediary stationary7contacts is coupled together by a linking bridge 365. The two movable contacts 312, 314 in mechanism 300 are electrically isolated from each other and attached to the common movable carrier 310. The example of FIG. 3C illustrates a moveable contact anti -rotation feature 394 to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier 310. In a particular embodiment, the moveable contact anti-rotation feature is a peg that extends from a link between the moveable carrier 310 and the moveable contacts that prevents the rotation of the moveable contacts relative to the stationary7contacts. The example of FIGs. 3A, 3C, and 3D illustrates N contact springs 399 between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts. The example of FIG. 3B illustrates partition walls 388 at least partially separating the two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts. The example of FIGs. 3A, 3C, and 3D illustrates a link attachment 377 for coupling the moveable carrier to an actuator assembly (not pictured). For ease of illustration, not all components of the mechanism 300 are illustrated in every view in FIGs. 3A-D.

[0045] For further explanation, FIG. 4A sets forth a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism 400 in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the electromechanical switching mechanism 400 of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4C sets forth a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism 400 of FIG. 4A. FIG. 4D is a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism 400 of FIG. 4A.

[0046] Similar to the mechanism 300 of FIGs 3A-D, the mechanism 400 includes N(N=2) pairs of moveable contacts 412, 414, N-l linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 420, two stationary contacts 402, 404, and two blowout magnets 450, 452. This results in 2N contact gaps.

[0047] The two movable contacts 412, 414 in mechanism 400 are electrically isolated from each other and attached to the common movable carrier 410. The example of FIG. 4C illustrates a moveable contact anti-rotation feature 494 to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier 410. The example of FIGs. 4A, 4C, and 4D illustrates N contact springs 498 between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts. The example mechanism 400 alsoincludes a pyrotechnic assembly 499 having a pyrotechnic charge 470 and a pyrotechnic plunger 472 that can be utilized to apply a force to the moveable carrier 410 and separate the moveable contacts 412, 414 from the stationary contacts 402, 404 and the linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts 420. Each linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts includes two intermediary stationary contacts 469 with each intermediary stationary contact 469 having a first side 468 and a second side 467. The first side 468 is configured for coupling to a moveable contact and each of the second sides 467 of the linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled together by a linking bridge 465. In the example of FIG. 4B, the linking bridge 465 of a linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts is curved. The curved linking bridge 465 curves around the pyrotechnic assembly 499 positioned between two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0048] The example of FIG. 4B illustrates partition walls 488 at least partially separating the moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts. The example of FIGs. 4 A, 4C, and 4D illustrates a link attachment 477 for coupling the moveable carrier to an actuator assembly (not pictured). For ease of illustration, not all components of the mechanism 400 are illustrated in every view in FIGs. 4A-D.

[0049] For further explanation, FIG. 5A sets forth a diagram illustrating an isometric view of another electromechanical switching mechanism in accordance with at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5B is a diagram illustrating a top view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5C sets forth a diagram illustrating a cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5A. FIG. 5D is a diagram illustrating another cross-section side view of the electromechanical switching mechanism of FIG. 5 A.

[0050] The mechanism 500 includes N=3 pairs of moveable contacts 512, 514, 516, 2 linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts 520, 522, two stationary contacts 502, 504, and two blowout magnets 550, 552. This results in 3N contact gaps. The three movable contacts 512, 514, 516 in mechanism 500 are electrically isolated from each other and attached to the common movable carrier 510. The example of FIGs. 5A. 5C, and 5D illustrates N contact springs 599 between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts. The example of FIG. 5C illustrates a moveable contact anti-rotation feature 594 to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier 510. The example of FIG. 5B illustrates partition walls 588 at least partially separating the moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts. The example of FIGs. 5 A, 5C,and 5D illustrates a link attachment 577 for coupling the moveable carrier to an actuator assembly (not pictured).

[0051] In the example of FIG. 5 A, each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts has a bottom surface for contacting two contacts of the N moveable contacts. The bottom surfaces have a first side 544 and a second side 543. Each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts has a top surface for contacting the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the two stationary contacts. The top surfaces have a first side 534 and a second side 533. The first sides 544 of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the first sides 534 of the N moveable contacts are on a first side 531 of the moveable carrier and the second sides 543 of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the second sides 533 of the N moveable contacts are on a second side 530 of the moveable carrier. In this example, the first side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the second side of a corresponding moveable contact; wherein the second side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the first side of a corresponding moveable contact. For ease of illustration, not all components of the mechanism 500 are illustrated in every view in FIGs. 5A-D.

[0052] For further explanation, FIG. 6 sets forth a diagram illustrating a method of operating an electromechanical switching device according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method of FIG. 6 includes applying 602 a current to a coil in an electromechanical switching device. In the example of FIG. 6, the electromechanical switching device includes two stationary' contacts, a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts, and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts. The N moveable contacts are configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state. In the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary' stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary' stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0053] In a particular embodiment, the electromechanical switching device also includes a moveable assembly having a plunger coupled to a plunger shaft. The plunger shaft is coupled to the moveable carrier (e.g., via a link attachment). In this embodiment, the electromechanical switching device also includes a flange coupled to an upper plate and a plunger spring coupled to the plunger and the flange. In this embodiment, the plunger and the flange have corresponding interfaces configured for magnetically attracting the flange andthe plunger in response to application of an electric current to a coil surrounding the moveable assembly. When application of the electric current to the coil is removed, the force of the energy stored in the plunger spring drives the plunger away from the flange.

[0054] For further explanation, FIG. 7 sets forth a diagram illustrating another method of operating an electromechanical switching mechanism according to at least one embodiment of the present disclosure. The method of FIG. 7 expands on the method of FIG. 6 by also including activating 702 a pyrotechnic assembly to separate the two stationary contacts and the moveable carrier. In the example of FIG. 7, the electromechanical switching device includes a pyrotechnic assembly that includes a pyrotechnic charge, and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier in response to receiving a signal. Activating 702 the pyrotechnic assembly to separate the two stationary contacts and the moveable carrier may be carried out by a controller providing a signal to the pyrotechnic assembly.

[0055] The flowchart and block diagrams in the figures illustrate the architecture, functionality, and operation of possible implementations of systems, apparatuses, and methods, according to various embodiments of the present invention. In this regard, each block in the flowchart or block diagrams may represent a module, segment, or portion of instructions, which comprises one or more instructions for implementing the specified logical function(s). In some alternative implementations, the functions noted in the block may occur out of the order noted in the figures. For example, two blocks shown in succession may. in fact, be executed substantially concurrently, or the blocks may sometimes be executed in the reverse order, depending upon the functionality involved. It will also be noted that each block of the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, and combinations of blocks in the block diagrams and / or flowchart illustration, can be implemented by special purpose hardware-based systems that perform the specified functions or acts or carry out combinations of special purpose hardware and computer instructions.

[0056] Advantages and features of the present disclosure can be further described by the following statements:

[0057] 1. An electromechanical switching mechanism comprising: two stationary contacts; a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts; and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts; the N moveable contacts configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state; in the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediarystationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0058] 2. The electromechanical switching mechanism of statement 1 further comprising: a hermetically sealed enclosure surrounding the moveable carrier, the N moveable contacts, and the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts.

[0059] 3. The electromechanical switching mechanism of statement 1 or 2, wherein the hermetically sealed enclosure includes pressurized hydrogen gas. pressurized nitrogen gas. or a pressurized mixture of hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas.

[0060] 4. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-3 further comprising: a plurality of blowout magnets surrounding the hermetically sealed enclosure.

[0061] 5. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-4, wherein at least one blowout magnet of the plurality of blowout magnets is positioned between one stationary contact of the two stationary contacts and one moveable contact of the N moveable contacts.

[0062] 6. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-5 further comprising: a moveable contact anti-rotation feature configured to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier.

[0063] 7. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-6 further comprising: a pyrotechnic assembly that includes a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

[0064] 8. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1 -7, wherein the electromechanical switching mechanism is integrated within an electromechanical switching device.

[0065] 9. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-8 further comprising N contact springs between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts.

[0066] 10. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1 -9 further comprising at least one partition wall at least partially separating two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0067] 11. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-10. wherein the N moveable contacts includes a first moveable contact and a second moveable contact, wherein the two stationary contacts includes a first stationary contact and a second stationary contact, the first moveable contact is in contact with the first stationary contact and the second moveable contact is in contact with the second stationary contact.

[0068] 12. The electromechanical switching device of any of statements 1-11, wherein the moveable carrier including a link attachment for coupling to an actuator assembly.

[0069] 13. The electromechanical switching device of any of statements 1-12, wherein each linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts includes two intermediary stationary contacts, each intermediary stationary contact having a first side and a second side, the first side is configured for coupling to a moveable contact, each of the second sides of the linked pairs of intermediary stationary’ contacts is coupled together by a linking bridge.

[0070] 14. The electromechanical switching device of any of statements 1-13, wherein the linking bridge of a linked pair of intermediary' stationary’ contacts of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts is curved.

[0071] 15. The electromechanical switching device of any of statements 1-14, wherein the curved linking bridge curves around a pyrotechnic assembly positioned between two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts, the pyrotechnic assembly including a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

[0072] 16. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-15. wherein each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts has a bottom surface for contacting two contacts of the N moveable contacts; the bottom surface having a first side and a second side; wherein each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts has a top surface for contacting the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the two stationary contacts; the first sides of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts and the first sides of the N moveable contacts are on a first side of the moveable carrier and the second sides of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts and the second sides of the N moveable contacts are on a second side of the moveable carrier.

[0073] 7. The electromechanical switching mechanism of any of statements 1-16, wherein the first side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary' stationary contacts is coupled to the second side of a corresponding moveable contact; wherein the second side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the first side of a corresponding moveable contact.

[0074] 18. A method of operating an electromechanical switching device, the method comprising: applying a current to a coil in an electromechanical switching device, the electromechanical switching device further including: two stationary contacts; a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts; and N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts; the N moveable contacts configured for positioning in an open state and a closedstate; in the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0075] 19. The method of statement 18 further comprising: activating a pyrotechnic assembly to separate the two stationary’ contacts and the moveable carrier.

[0076] 20. The method of any of statements 18-19, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes: a hermetically sealed enclosure surrounding the moveable carrier, the N moveable contacts, and the N-l linked pairs of intermediary’ stationary’ contacts.

[0077] 21. The method of any of statements 18-20, wherein the hermetically sealed enclosure includes pressurized hydrogen gas, pressurized nitrogen gas, or a pressurized mixture of hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas.

[0078] 22. The method of any of statements 18-21, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes: a plurality of blowout magnets surrounding the hermetically sealed enclosure.

[0079] 23. The method of any of statements 18-22, wherein at least one blowout magnet of the plurality of blowout magnets is positioned between one stationary contact of the two stationary’ contacts and one moveable contact of the N moveable contacts.

[0080] 24. The method of any of statements 18-23, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes a moveable contact anti-rotation feature configured to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier.

[0081] 25. The method of any of statements 18-24, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes a pyrotechnic assembly that includes a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

[0082] 26. The method of any of statements 18-25, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes N contact springs between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts.

[0083] 27. The method of any of statements 18-26, wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes at least one partition wall at least partially separating two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

[0084] 28. The method of any of statements 18-27, wherein the N moveable contacts includes a first moveable contact and a second moveable contact, wherein the two stationary' contacts includes a first stationary’ contact and a second stationary contact, the first moveable contactis in contact with the first stationary contact and the second moveable contact is in contact with the second stationary contact.

[0085] 29. The method of any of statements 18-28, wherein the moveable carrier includes a link attachment for coupling to an actuator assembly.

[0086] 30. The method of any of statements 18-29, wherein each linked pairs of intermediary stationary’ contacts includes two intermediary stationary contacts, each intermediary stationary contact having a first side and a second side, the first side is configured for coupling to a moveable contact, each of the second sides of the linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts is coupled together by a linking bridge.

[0087] 31. The method of any of statements 18-30, wherein the linking bridge of a linked pair of intermediary’ stationary contacts of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is curved.

[0088] 32. The method of any of statements 18-31, wherein the curved linking bridge curves around a pyrotechnic assembly positioned between two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts, the pyrotechnic assembly including a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

[0089] 33. The method of any of statements 18-32, wherein each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary’ stationary’ contacts has a bottom surface for contacting two contacts of the N moveable contacts; the bottom surface having a first side and a second side; wherein each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts has a top surface for contacting the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts and the two stationary contacts; the first sides of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary' stationary’ contacts and the first sides of the N moveable contacts are on a first side of the moveable carrier and the second sides of the N- 1 linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the second sides of the N moveable contacts are on a second side of the moveable carrier.

[0090] 34. The method of any of statements 18-33, wherein the first side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary' stationary’ contacts is coupled to the second side of a corresponding moveable contact; wherein the second side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the first side of a corresponding moveable contact.

[0091] It will be understood from the foregoing description that modifications and changes may be made in various embodiments of the present disclosure without departing from its true spirit. The descriptions in this specification are for purposes of illustration only and arenot to be construed in a limiting sense. The scope of the present disclosure is limited only by the language of the following claims.

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An electromechanical switching mechanism comprising: two stationary contacts; a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts; andN-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts; the N moveable contacts configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state; in the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

2. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1 further comprising: a hermetically sealed enclosure surrounding the moveable carrier, the N moveable contacts, and the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts.

3. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 2, wherein the hermetically sealed enclosure includes pressurized hydrogen gas, pressurized nitrogen gas, or a pressurized mixture of hydrogen gas and nitrogen gas.

4. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 2 further comprising: a plurality of blowout magnets surrounding the hermetically sealed enclosure.

5. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 4, wherein at least one blowout magnet of the plurality of blowout magnets is positioned between one stationary contact of the two stationary contacts and one moveable contact of the N moveable contacts.

6. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1 further comprising: a moveable contact anti-rotation feature configured to reduce rotation of the moveable carrier.

7. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1 further comprising: a pyrotechnic assembly that includes a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

8. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein the electromechanical switching mechanism is integrated within an electromechanical switching device.

9. The electromechanical sw itching mechanism of claim 1 further comprising N contact springs between the moveable carrier and the N moveable contacts.

10. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1 further comprising at least one partition w all at least partially separating tw o moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

11. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1 , wherein the N moveable contacts includes a first moveable contact and a second moveable contact, wherein the two stationary contacts includes a first stationary contact and a second stationary contact, the first moveable contact is in contact with the first stationary contact and the second moveable contact is in contact with the second stationary' contact.

12. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein the moveable carrier including a link attachment for coupling to an actuator assembly.

13. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein each linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts includes two intermediary stationary contacts, each intermediary stationary contact having a first side and a second side, the first side is configured for coupling to a moveable contact, each of the second sides of the linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled together by a linking bridge.

14. The electromechanical syvitching mechanism of claim 13, wherein the linking bridge of a linked pair of intermediary stationary contacts of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is curved.

15. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 14, wherein the curved linking bridge curves around a pyrotechnic assembly positioned between two moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts, the pyrotechnic assembly including a pyrotechnic charge and a pyrotechnic plunger configured to apply a force to the moveable carrier.

16. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 1, wherein each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts has a bottom surface for contacting two contacts of the N moveable contacts: the bottom surface having a first side and a second side; wherein each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts has a top surface for contacting the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts and the two stationary' contacts; the top surface having a first side and a second side; the first sides of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts and the first sides of the N moveable contacts are on a first side of the moveable earner and the second sides of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary’ contactsand the second sides of the N moveable contacts are on a second side of the moveable earner.

17. The electromechanical switching mechanism of claim 16, wherein the first side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the second side of a corresponding moveable contact; wherein the second side of each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is coupled to the first side of a corresponding moveable contact.

18. A method of operating an electromechanical switching device, the method comprising: applying a current to a coil in an electromechanical switching device, the electromechanical switching device further including: two stationary contacts; a moveable carrier coupled to N moveable contacts; andN-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts; the N moveable contacts configured for positioning in an open state and a closed state; in the closed state, each moveable contact of the N moveable contacts is in contact with at least one contact of one linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary' contacts, such that each linked pair of the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts is in contact with two different moveable contacts of the N moveable contacts.

19. The method of claim 18 further comprising: activating a pyrotechnic assembly to separate the two stationary' contacts and the moveable carrier.

20. The method of claim 18 wherein the electromechanical switching device further includes: a hermetically sealed enclosure surrounding the moveable carrier, the N moveable contacts, and the N-l linked pairs of intermediary stationary contacts.

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