Circuit breaker and power supply cabinet

Abstract

The present application relates to the technical field of circuit breakers. Provided in the present application are a circuit breaker and a power supply cabinet. The circuit breaker comprises a plurality of arc extinguishing grids and a plurality of metal grids, wherein the plurality of arc extinguishing grids are used for arc extinguishing, and the plurality of metal grids are used for eliminating charged particles generated after arc extinguishing. A spaced arrangement direction of the plurality of metal grids is consistent with a spaced arrangement direction of the plurality of arc extinguishing grids, that is, an extension direction of the metal grids is consistent with an airflow removal direction, such that a channel formed by the plurality of metal grids can be long to the greatest possible extent, so as to improve the capability of the plurality of metal grids to eliminate the charged particles, thereby preventing the charged particles from flying out from the circuit breaker and affecting other electronic devices.

Description

Circuit breakers and power cabinets

[0001] This application claims priority to Chinese Patent Application No. 202422711648.1, filed on November 6, 2024, entitled "Circuit Breaker and Power Supply Cabinet", the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0002] This application relates to the technical field of circuit breakers, and more particularly to a circuit breaker and power supply cabinet. Background Technology

[0003] When the moving and stationary contacts of a circuit breaker break, an electric arc is generated. The arc-extinguishing grid is used to extinguish the arc, but at the same time, gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) is generated. The charged particles are then discharged from the circuit breaker along with the gas. The discharged charged particles can affect other electronic components outside the circuit breaker, such as causing short circuits or burnout. Summary of the Invention

[0004] Embodiments of this application provide a circuit breaker and power cabinet to prevent charged particles emitted by the circuit breaker from affecting external electronic devices.

[0005] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a circuit breaker, which includes a housing, a moving contact, a stationary contact, multiple arc-extinguishing grids, and multiple metal grids. The housing includes a vent hole and an inner cavity communicating with the vent hole. Multiple metal grids are spaced apart within the inner cavity of the housing, and multiple arc-extinguishing grids are also spaced apart within the inner cavity, located on the side of the multiple metal grids away from the vent hole. The moving and stationary contacts are located within the inner cavity of the housing, on the side of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids away from the multiple metal grids, i.e., the multiple metal grids are located between the multiple arc-extinguishing grids and the vent hole. This allows the arc generated when the moving and stationary contacts break to pass sequentially through the multiple arc-extinguishing grids and the multiple metal grids. Thus, the arc is extinguished by the multiple arc-extinguishing grids as it passes through them, preventing damage to the circuit breaker or more serious dangers such as fires. When an electric arc passes through the arc-extinguishing grid, it generates gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) due to the high temperature. As the charged particles generated by the arc pass through the arc-extinguishing grid, they are subjected to magnetic force by the metal grids and deflected towards the metal grids. Thus, the charged particles are attracted to the metal grids. Therefore, the metal grids can eliminate the charged particles and prevent them from flying out of the circuit breaker and affecting other electronic devices.

[0006] To enhance the ability of the metal grid to eliminate charged particles, a channel is formed between any two adjacent metal grids. The extension direction of the channel is consistent with the direction in which multiple arc-extinguishing grids face multiple metal grids. Furthermore, the channel connects multiple arc-extinguishing grids and exhaust holes. In other words, the extension direction of multiple metal grids is consistent along the direction in which multiple arc-extinguishing grids face multiple metal grids. It can be understood that the thickness direction of the metal grid is perpendicular to its extension direction. Since the extension direction of the channel formed by the gap between any two adjacent metal grids is consistent with the direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids toward the multiple metal grids, and the flow direction of the gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) is also in the direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids toward the multiple metal grids, the extension direction of the channel is consistent with the flow direction of the charged particles. The channel is formed by the gap between any two adjacent metal grids, making the channel continuous. Therefore, this embodiment can fully utilize the space between the multiple arc-extinguishing grids and the exhaust port to make the channel as long as possible. This allows charged particles to be more easily captured onto the metal grids under the influence of magnetic force when passing through the channel, specifically onto the surface of the metal grids used to form the channel, that is, the surface along the thickness direction of the metal grids. This effectively improves the metal grids' ability to eliminate charged particles, thus avoiding impact on other electronic devices. Furthermore, because the channel is continuous, the gas exhaust resistance is reduced, decreasing the probability of the gas rebounding toward the arc-extinguishing grids after being obstructed, allowing for faster cooling of the free gas.

[0007] In some embodiments, multiple metal grids divide the inner cavity of the housing into a first chamber and a second chamber, with the second chamber communicating with the exhaust port of the housing. It is understood that the multiple metal grids are considered as a single unit, and the space occupied by the multiple metal grids belongs neither to the first chamber nor to the second chamber. A channel connects the first and second chambers, so that the length of the channel can be at least substantially the same as the length of the distance between the first and second chambers, in order to maximize the length of the channel and improve the electron elimination capability. It should be noted that the second chamber here refers to the area between the first filter screen and the multiple metal grids located at the exhaust port, i.e., a gap is left between the first filter screen and the multiple metal grids. Because a gap is left between the first filter screen and the multiple metal grids, it provides the possibility of replacing metal grids of different lengths, so that the length of the channel formed by two adjacent metal grids can be adjusted according to the requirements for eliminating charged particles.

[0008] In some embodiments, the inner cavity of the housing is located in the area between the first filter and multiple metal grids, with the inner diameter of the inner cavity decreasing closer to the first filter. That is, the inner diameter of the second chamber gradually decreases from the multiple metal grids to the first filter. When the moving and stationary contacts break, gas (containing charged particles and other particulate matter) is generated. Based on aerodynamic principles, the gradually decreasing inner diameter of the second chamber helps to increase the flow velocity of particles and gas, thereby increasing the rate at which charged particles are captured by the metal grids. This effectively reduces the time required for arc generation and gas discharge from the circuit breaker, allowing the circuit breaker to return to a safe, normal state within a very short time after breaking, thus improving its safety performance. Furthermore, the first filter filters out any remaining particles, preventing them from flowing out of the circuit breaker through the exhaust vent, providing another layer of protection for the circuit breaker's safe operation.

[0009] In some embodiments, the spacing direction of the multiple metal grids is approximately the same as the spacing direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids. Since the electric arc generated by the moving and stationary contacts is approximately perpendicular to the multiple arc-extinguishing grids, the grids can segment the arc and extinguish it. Because the spacing direction of the multiple metal grids is the same as that of the arc-extinguishing grids, the grids are also approximately perpendicular to the arc. Gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) travels from the arc-extinguishing grids towards the multiple metal grids, roughly in the manner of the arc's aftershocks. That is, the gas travels towards the metal grids in a manner approximately perpendicular to them, increasing the probability of charged particles immediately contacting the grids. This allows the multiple metal grids to more easily adsorb charged particles onto them, thereby improving their ability to eliminate charged particles.

[0010] In some embodiments, at least one of any two adjacent metal grids includes at least one bend. For example, a metal grid can be bent once to form one bend, bent twice to form two bends, or bent more times to form more bends. It is understood that multiple metal grids each have at least one bend, and the bends of the multiple metal grids are located at approximately the same positions, thereby facilitating a reasonable spacing arrangement of the multiple metal grids. The bend is formed by bending the metal grid towards or away from adjacent metal grids; that is, the bending direction is towards the spacing arrangement direction of the multiple metal grids. It is understood that bending the metal grid towards the spacing arrangement direction of the multiple metal grids does not mean that the direction after bending is consistent with the spacing arrangement direction of the multiple metal grids, but rather that the direction during bending is biased towards the spacing arrangement direction of the multiple metal grids. In this embodiment, because the metal grid includes at least one bend, the channel formed by adjacent metal grids includes at least one curve. This makes it very easy for charged particles to come into contact with the metal grid when passing through the curve, effectively increasing the probability of charged particles moving onto the metal grid and thus improving the metal grid's ability to capture charged particles. It is understood that in some other embodiments, any two adjacent metal grids may each include at least one bend.

[0011] In some embodiments, the bending angle is less than 90 degrees. Because the bending angle is less than 90 degrees, the bending angle of the channel formed by the metal grid is also less than 90 degrees, which can prevent the gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) from being rebounded and flowing back, thereby avoiding the risk of short circuit of the arc-extinguishing grid caused by charged particles flowing back to it.

[0012] In some embodiments, multiple metal grids are arranged in a wavy, sheet-like structure, with the grids arranged in parallel. It is understood that a wavy, sheet-like structure refers to a surface that is roughly curved and undulating. In this embodiment, the process of fabricating multiple metal grids into a wavy, sheet-like structure is relatively simple and can reduce processing costs. Secondly, because the multiple metal grids have a wavy, sheet-like structure, the bends in the channels formed by adjacent metal grids are smoother, making them less prone to accumulation and preventing channel blockage caused by prolonged adsorption of charged particles. Furthermore, the channels formed by the multiple metal grids are also wavy, resulting in many bends. This greatly increases the probability of charged particles contacting the metal grids when passing through bends, thereby increasing the metal grids' ability to eliminate charged particles.

[0013] In some embodiments, the multiple metal grids are generally flat, facilitating manufacturing. In the spacing direction of the multiple metal grids, the overall size of the end of the multiple metal grids facing the arc-extinguishing grids is larger than the overall size of the end of the multiple metal grids facing the exhaust port. Therefore, the channel formed by the multiple metal grids has a larger size on the side facing the arc-extinguishing grids than on the side facing the exhaust port. Gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) flows from the end of the metal grids facing the arc-extinguishing grids into the channel formed by adjacent metal grids. Therefore, charged particles are more likely to contact the metal grids as they flow through the channel and be captured by the metal grids, thus improving the ability of the metal grids to eliminate charged particles.

[0014] In some embodiments, notches are formed at the ends of the multiple metal grids facing the arc-extinguishing grid, with the notches being larger at positions closer to the multiple arc-extinguishing grids. These notches reduce the resistance to the gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter), effectively guiding charged particles into the channel formed by the multiple metal grids, thereby effectively preventing backflow of charged particles and improving the ability of the multiple metal grids to eliminate charged particles.

[0015] In some embodiments, the notch is V-shaped or horn-shaped. By making the notch V-shaped or horn-shaped, charged particles can be guided to flow toward the metal grid, preventing charged particles from bouncing back.

[0016] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker further includes an outer frame fixed to the inner wall of the housing cavity and located between multiple arc-extinguishing grids and vent holes. The outer frame includes opposing first and second windows, with the first window facing the multiple arc-extinguishing grids and the second window facing the vent holes. Multiple metal grids are fixed within the outer frame. This allows multiple metal grids to be pre-fixed within the outer frame before the arc-extinguishing module, consisting of the multiple metal grids and the outer frame, is assembled into the housing cavity, improving assembly efficiency and facilitating the replacement of different models of arc-extinguishing modules as needed. For example, different performance arc-extinguishing modules can be replaced based on the required level of charge particle elimination. Generally, the longer the extension direction of the metal grids, the longer the channel and the greater the ability to eliminate charged particles. Specifically, the outer frame includes a bottom wall and a top wall opposite each other in the extension direction of the channel, as well as multiple side walls located between the bottom wall and the top wall. The bottom wall is close to the multiple arc-extinguishing grids, and the top wall is close to the vent holes. The bottom wall has a first window penetrating through it, and the top wall has a second window penetrating through it.

[0017] In some embodiments, the inner wall of the outer shell cavity is provided with a limiting groove, the outer frame is installed in the limiting groove, and multiple side walls are located on the bottom wall of the limiting groove. For example, the outer frame can be inserted into the limiting groove, thereby avoiding the use of screws and reducing the difficulty of assembly.

[0018] In some embodiments, multiple sidewalls include a first outer frame and a second outer frame opposite to each other in the extension direction of the channel. The first outer frame surrounds the outer periphery of the bottom wall and forms an upper frame with the bottom wall. The second outer frame surrounds the outer periphery of the top wall and forms a lower frame with the top wall. The upper and lower frames can be fixed together by screws or by snap-fit. In this embodiment, the detachable connection between the upper and lower frames allows for easy fixing of multiple metal grids to the outer frame, improving assembly efficiency.

[0019] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker also includes a second filter screen located inside the outer frame and covering the first window; that is, the second filter screen is also fixed inside the outer frame and serves to seal the first window. Since the second filter screen is also fixed inside the outer frame, the second filter screen, multiple metal grids, and the outer frame can be pre-assembled into an arc-extinguishing module before being assembled into the inner cavity of the outer casing, thus reducing the installation difficulty of the second filter screen. Furthermore, due to the placement of the second filter screen and its covering of the first window, the gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) exiting the arc-extinguishing grids must first pass through the second filter screen before entering the channel formed by the multiple metal grids from the first window. The second filter screen can filter out larger particles, preventing them from clogging the channel. Specifically, since the multiple arc-extinguishing grids and exhaust holes are located on both sides of the outer frame, the first chamber is connected to the first window, and the second chamber is connected to the second window. Therefore, the gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) flowing out of the first chamber flows through the first window into the outer frame and through the second window into the second chamber. Multiple arc-quenching grids are located in the first chamber, so that the gas flowing out of the first chamber will flow through the second filter screen and multiple metal grids inside the outer frame, thereby improving the elimination effect of the second filter screen and multiple metal grids on some large particles and charged particles.

[0020] In some embodiments, the second filter is made of an insulating material, such as plastic, which cools charged particles as they pass through. The second filter has multiple through-holes. These through-holes filter out larger particles.

[0021] In some embodiments, there are multiple second filter screens, and an insulating pad is provided between two adjacent second filter screens. The inner diameter of the through hole of the second filter screen facing the first window is larger, so that larger particles can be filtered into the gap between adjacent second filter screens, avoiding larger particles from falling between multiple arc-extinguishing grids and causing short circuits between the arc-extinguishing grids.

[0022] In some embodiments, at least a portion of the multiple metal grids extend beyond the outer frame from the second window. Because at least a portion of the metal grids can extend beyond the outer frame from the second window, the length of the extension direction (the direction opposite to the first and second windows) of the metal grids in the arc-extinguishing module can be adjusted as needed to change the module's ability to eliminate charged particles. It is understood that, since the internal cavity space of the outer casing is fixed, the longer the metal grids, the more space the first chamber needs to accommodate the arc-extinguishing grids, and the space cannot be compressed, thus the space of the second chamber will correspondingly decrease.

[0023] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker further includes two opposing and spaced-apart fixing plates. The two fixing plates can be made of insulating material or metal. Multiple metal grids are fixed between the two fixing plates; for example, the multiple metal grids can be riveted to the two fixing plates. When the fixing plates are made of plastic, the riveting difficulty between the multiple metal grids and the fixing plates can be reduced. When the fixing plates are made of metal, the fixing plates can also capture charged particles, thereby improving the circuit breaker's ability to eliminate charged particles. The two fixing plates are fixed inside the outer frame, and the two fixing plates are parallel to the relative direction of the first window and the second window, so that the two fixing plates will not block the path of charged particle flow and will not affect the entry of charged particles into the channel formed by the multiple metal grids. During assembly, the second filter screen can be assembled into the upper frame first, and then the fixing plates and multiple metal grids can be assembled into the upper frame. An insulating gasket is also provided between the edges of the fixing plates and the second filter screen, thereby limiting the second filter screen through the fixing plates and the upper frame. Then, the lower frame is fixed to the upper frame, thereby limiting the fixing plate within the outer frame and fixing the fixing plate.

[0024] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker further includes two opposing and spaced-apart fixing plates, with multiple metal grids fixed between the two fixing plates. Both fixing plates extend from the first chamber to the second chamber and are fixed to the inner wall of the housing cavity. In this embodiment, the outer frame mentioned above is unnecessary. Multiple metal grids can be pre-fixed together using the two fixing plates, and then the arc-suppression module composed of the two fixing plates and multiple metal grids can be installed into the housing cavity, thereby improving assembly convenience.

[0025] Secondly, embodiments of this application provide a power cabinet, which includes a cabinet body, a power module, and a circuit breaker as described in any of the first aspects above. The power module is located inside the cabinet body, and the circuit breaker is located inside the cabinet body and electrically connected to the power module. Attached Figure Description

[0026] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the accompanying drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below.

[0027] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a power cabinet provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0028] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the uninterruptible power supply system provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0029] Figure 3 is a partial structural diagram of a circuit breaker after it has been cut open from plane A, according to an embodiment of this application.

[0030] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker in the embodiment of Figure 3 at plane A;

[0031] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the metal grid sheet in the embodiment of Figure 3;

[0032] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the arc suppression module in the embodiment of Figure 3;

[0033] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the arc suppression module in the embodiment of Figure 6;

[0034] Figure 8A is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0035] Figure 8B is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0036] Figure 8C is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0037] Figure 8D is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0038] Figure 8E is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0039] Figure 8F is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0040] Figure 8G is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0041] Figure 8H is another structural schematic diagram of the multiple metal grids in the embodiment of Figure 5;

[0042] Figure 9 is a schematic diagram of another arc suppression module provided in an embodiment of this application;

[0043] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of another arc suppression module provided in the application embodiment;

[0044] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an insulating gasket provided in the embodiment of the application.

[0045] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached drawings: X, first direction; Z, second direction; L, spacing direction of multiple metal grids; Y, third direction; 1, power cabinet; 2, cabinet body; 3, power module; 4, circuit breaker; 5, bypass module; 6, rectifier circuit; 7, inverter circuit; 8, DC-DC converter circuit; 10, outer shell; 11, inner cavity of the outer shell; 111, first chamber; 112, second chamber; 113, limiting groove; 1131, limiting boss; 12, vent hole; 21, moving contact; 22, stationary contact; 30, arc extinguishing module; 31, arc extinguishing grid; 40. Arc suppression module; 41. Metal grid plate; 41a. First part; 41b. Second part; 41c. First metal grid plate; 41d. Second metal grid plate; 41e. Flat grid plate; 411. Channel; 412. Notch; 413. Fixing part; 414. Bending; 415. First flat plate; 416. Second flat plate; 417. Third flat plate; 418. Fourth flat plate; 42. Second filter screen; 43. Outer frame; 431. Upper frame; 4311. Bottom wall; 4312. First outer frame; 432. Lower frame; 4321. Top wall; 4322. Second outer frame; 433. First window; 434. Second window; 435. Multiple side walls; 44. Fixing plate; 45. Insulating gasket; 451. Outer ring; 452. Reinforcing rib; 50. First filter screen. Detailed Implementation

[0046] The following section will first explain some of the terms used in the embodiments of this application.

[0047] The terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc., used in the specification, claims, and accompanying drawings of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and are not necessarily used to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such data can be interchanged where appropriate so that the embodiments of this application described herein can be implemented, for example, in orders other than those illustrated or described herein. Furthermore, the terms "comprising" and "having," and any variations thereof, are intended to cover non-exclusive inclusion; for example, a process, method, system, product, or apparatus that comprises a series of steps or units is not necessarily limited to those steps or units explicitly listed, but may include other steps or units not explicitly listed or inherent to such processes, methods, products, or apparatus.

[0048] In this specification, the terms "vertical" and "parallel" are explained.

[0049] Perpendicularity: The perpendicularity defined in this application is not limited to an absolute perpendicular intersection (with an included angle of 90 degrees). It is permissible for non-absolute perpendicular intersections caused by factors such as assembly tolerances, design tolerances, and structural flatness. It is permissible for errors within a small angular range, such as an assembly error range of 80 to 100 degrees, which can all be understood as a perpendicular relationship.

[0050] Parallelism: The parallelism defined in this application is not limited to absolute parallelism. This definition of parallelism can be understood as basic parallelism, allowing for situations where the parallelism is not absolute due to factors such as assembly tolerances, design tolerances, and structural flatness. These situations may lead to the sliding mating part and the first door panel not being absolutely parallel, but this application also defines such situations as parallelism.

[0051] Circuit breakers are used in household power supply and distribution systems to connect, carry, and disconnect current between the power grid and household circuits. They are also used in the power supply and distribution systems of commercial or public electrical equipment. For example, when equipment (such as 4G or 5G base stations) needs to operate normally, users can switch the circuit breaker to the closed state to allow the power grid to supply the necessary power. When equipment needs maintenance or repair, users can switch the circuit breaker to the open state to facilitate these tasks. Furthermore, at certain times, the demand for some equipment (such as a 4G or 5G base station in a remote area) may be low or nonexistent; users can switch the circuit breaker to the open state to save energy.

[0052] When the moving and stationary contacts of a circuit breaker break, an electric arc is generated. The arc is then extinguished by the arc-extinguishing grid of the circuit breaker. During the arc-extinguishing process, some gas is generated and discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker. The gas contains some charged particles and particulate matter. In particular, the charged particles can cause short circuits to external electronic devices.

[0053] Figure 1 is a structural schematic diagram of a power cabinet 1 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0054] Referring to Figure 1, the power cabinet 1 includes a cabinet 2, power modules 3 housed within the cabinet 2, and multiple circuit breakers 4, etc. The power modules 3 are used to convert DC power to AC power, or vice versa. The circuit breakers 4 are electrically connected to the power modules 3 and are used to connect or disconnect the power cabinet 1 from the external power grid, etc. The power cabinet 1 can be an uninterruptible power system (UPS) used to provide power to the load.

[0055] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram of the uninterruptible power supply system provided in the embodiment of this application.

[0056] Referring to Figure 2, the uninterruptible power supply (UPS) system includes multiple power modules 3, a bypass module 5, and a load terminal H. Each power module 3 has an AC input and a DC input. The AC input is connected to the mains input to receive power from the mains, and the DC input is connected to a battery to receive power from the battery. The bypass module 5 has its power input connected to the bypass input to receive power from a generator. Continuing to refer to Figure 2, the power outputs of each power module 3 and the bypass module 5 are connected to the load terminal H, which is used to connect to a load.

[0057] Referring again to Figure 2, each power module includes a rectifier circuit 6, an inverter circuit 7, and a DC-DC converter circuit 8. The rectifier circuit 6 is also called a rectifier, the inverter circuit 7 is also called an inverter, and the DC-DC converter circuit 8 is also called a DC-DC converter. The input terminal of the rectifier circuit 6 is electrically connected to the main input, and the output terminal of the rectifier circuit 6 is connected to the input terminal of the inverter circuit 7. The output terminal of the inverter circuit 7 is electrically connected to the load terminal H. The input terminal of the DC-DC converter circuit 8 is electrically connected to the battery, and the output terminal of the DC-DC converter circuit 8 is connected to the input terminal of the inverter circuit 7. For example, referring to Figure 2, the output terminal of the DC-DC converter circuit 8 is connected to the connection line between the rectifier circuit 6 and the inverter circuit 7.

[0058] To ensure the safety of the circuit between power module 3 and the main input, the circuit between power module 3 and the battery, the circuit between power module 3 and the load, and the circuit between bypass module 5 and the bypass input, circuit breakers 4 are usually required between power module 3 and the main input, between power module 3 and the battery, between power module 3 and the load, and between bypass module 5 and the bypass input (as shown in Figure 1).

[0059] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, since there are a large number of electronic devices in the power cabinet 1, and in order to improve the space utilization of the power cabinet 1, many other electronic devices need to be installed near the circuit breaker 4. In this embodiment, the circuit breaker 4 in the power cabinet 1 can eliminate charged particles inside the circuit breaker 4, so as to prevent charged particles generated when the circuit breaker 4 is disconnected from being discharged outside the circuit breaker 4 and causing short circuit risk to other electronic devices, thereby improving the safety performance of the power cabinet 1.

[0060] To more clearly illustrate the structure of the circuit breaker 4, Figure 3 is a partial structural diagram of the circuit breaker 4 provided in this application embodiment after it has been cut from plane A. In the embodiment of Figure 3, only half of the housing 10, half of the arc extinguishing module 30, and half of the arc extinguishing module 40 are shown. The cut-off half is basically mirror-symmetrical about plane A with respect to the half shown in the embodiment of Figure 3.

[0061] To eliminate charged particles generated by the circuit breaker 4 during disconnection, referring to FIG3, in some embodiments, the circuit breaker 4 includes a housing 10, a moving contact 21, a stationary contact 22, an arc extinguishing module 30, and an arc extinguishing module 40.

[0062] The housing 10 includes an inner cavity 11 and an exhaust port 12 communicating with the inner cavity 11. The moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are located inside the inner cavity 11. When the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are in contact, the circuit breaker 4 is closed. When the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are disconnected, the circuit breaker 4 is opened.

[0063] When the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are disconnected, an electric arc will be generated. The arc extinguishing module 30 is located inside the housing 10. The moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are located on the side of the arc extinguishing module 30 away from the exhaust port 12. As a result, the electric arc generated by the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 will move to the arc extinguishing module 30 and be extinguished by the arc extinguishing module 30 when it passes through it.

[0064] Referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, the arc-extinguishing module 30 includes multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 spaced apart within the inner cavity 11 of the housing. Multiple gaps are formed between the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31, and adjacent arc-extinguishing grids 31 are insulated from each other. When the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 break, the arc generated can be divided into several segments by the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31. Each of the mutually insulated metal grids 41 is equivalent to an electrode, thus resulting in numerous anode and cathode voltage drops. For AC arcs, near the cathode, a dielectric strength occurs when the arc crosses zero, causing the arc to extinguish and become unsustainable.

[0065] It is understandable that in some other embodiments, the arc extinguishing module 30 may also extinguish the arc through mechanical arc extinguishing (a method of quickly elongating the arc through mechanical action to extinguish the arc), magnetic blow-out arc extinguishing (under the action of the magnetic field generated by the magnetic blow-out coil connected in series with the contacts, the arc is elongated by the action of electromagnetic force and blown into a solid medium to extinguish the arc), vacuum arc extinguishing (a method of extinguishing the arc by utilizing the high electrical insulation performance and high thermal conductivity performance in a vacuum environment), and other arc extinguishing methods.

[0066] It is understandable that when the arc extinguishing module 30 extinguishes the generated arc, the high temperature causes the arc extinguishing module 30 to produce gas during arc extinguishing. This gas contains charged particles and other particulate matter. When these particles or charged particles flow out of the circuit breaker 4 with the gas, they can cause danger to other electronic devices outside the circuit breaker 4. For example, the flying charged particles may break down other electronic devices, causing short circuits. In this embodiment, the arc extinguishing module 40 is mainly used to eliminate charged particles and particulate matter mixed in the gas.

[0067] The arc-extinguishing module 40 is located inside the inner cavity 11 of the outer shell and is located on the side of the arc-extinguishing module 30 facing the exhaust port 12. As a result, charged particles and particulate matter will flow from the arc-extinguishing module 30 toward the exhaust port 12 with the gas and will pass through the arc-extinguishing module 40 before reaching the exhaust port 12. In this embodiment, the arc-extinguishing module 40 can eliminate charged particles and particulate matter mixed in the gas.

[0068] Referring to FIG3, in some embodiments, the arc suppression module 40 includes a plurality of metal grids 41 and a second filter screen 42.

[0069] Multiple metal grids 41 are arranged at intervals within the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing, dividing the inner cavity 11 into a first chamber 111 and a second chamber 112. The second chamber 112 is connected to the exhaust port 12 of the outer casing 10. Multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 are arranged at intervals within the first chamber 111.

[0070] For ease of description, the arrangement direction of the first chamber 111, the multiple metal grids 41, and the second chamber 112 is defined as the first direction X, that is, the arrangement direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31, the multiple metal grids 41, and the exhaust port 12 is defined as the first direction X. The direction in which the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 are arranged at intervals is defined as the second direction Z. It can be understood that the thickness direction of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 is consistent with the second direction Z.

[0071] The moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 are located within the first chamber 111, on the side of the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 away from the plurality of metal grids 41. Since the exhaust port 12 is connected to the second chamber 112, the arc generated by the breaking of the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 moves towards the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31. The gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) generated after passing through the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 flows back towards the plurality of metal grids 41. It can be understood that the second direction Z is approximately perpendicular to the first direction X, that is, the spacing direction of the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 is approximately perpendicular to the first direction X, so that the arc generated by the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 can be divided into multiple segments by the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 to achieve arc extinguishing.

[0072] The second filter 42 is positioned between multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 and multiple metal grids 41. Gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) emitted from the arc-extinguishing grids 31 first passes through the second filter 42 and then enters the multiple metal grids 41. Thus, gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) emitted from the arc-extinguishing module 30 sequentially passes through the second filter 42, the multiple metal grids 41, and finally flows to the exhaust port 12, through which the filtered gas is discharged. The second filter 42 filters large particles from the gas emitted from the arc-extinguishing grids 31, while smaller particles and charged particles flow with the gas through the second filter 42 towards the multiple metal grids 41. When charged particles pass through the multiple metal grids 41, they are subjected to magnetic force, causing them to move towards the metal grids 41 and be captured by them. Therefore, passing through the multiple metal grids 41 effectively eliminates charged particles. This effectively prevents charged particles from flying out of the circuit breaker 4 and causing danger to other electronic devices.

[0073] In some embodiments, the second filter 42 is made of an insulating material, such as plastic, so that it has a cooling effect when charged particles pass through. The second filter 42 has multiple through-holes. Larger particles are filtered through these through-holes. It is understood that in other embodiments, the second filter 42 may also be made of metal.

[0074] To enhance the ability of the multiple metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles, referring to Figure 3, in some embodiments, a channel 411 is formed between any two adjacent metal grids 41. The extending direction of the channel 411 is approximately the same as the direction in which the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 face the multiple metal grids 41, that is, approximately the same as the first direction X. The channel 411 connects the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112, thereby connecting the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 and the exhaust port 12 within the first chamber 111. The channel 411 is used to allow gas (containing charged particles and some particulate matter) to pass through. When charged particles pass through the channel 411, they are subjected to a magnetic force, and the direction of the magnetic force is the spacing direction L of the multiple metal grids 41. Therefore, under the action of the magnetic force, the charged particles will deflect towards the metal grids 41 constituting the channel 411. Understandably, given a fixed charge on a charged particle, the longer the channel 411, the greater the distance the particle will deflect towards the metal grid 41 under the influence of magnetic force, making it easier for the particle to be captured and eliminated by the metal grid 41. Furthermore, even if the charged particle has a small charge, if the channel 411 is long enough, it can still deflect a sufficient distance towards the metal grid 41 and be captured by it. In this embodiment, since the channel 411 formed by two adjacent metal grids 41 connects the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112, the multiple metal grids 41 are arranged approximately parallel to the first direction X. The length of the channel 411 is consistent with the length of the metal grids 41 extending in the first direction X, and the length of the metal grids 41 extending in the first direction X is basically consistent with the distance between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112. Thus, the multiple metal grids 41 are arranged approximately parallel to the first direction X. When the space in the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing for installing the multiple metal grids 41 is fixed, the space between the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 and the exhaust hole 12 can be fully utilized, effectively increasing the length of the channel 411 and improving the ability of the metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles, so as to avoid the influence on other electronic devices.

[0075] Figure 4 is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker 4 in the embodiment of Figure 3 at plane A.

[0076] Referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41 is approximately the same as the spacing direction of the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31. That is, the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41 is also the second direction Z. Since the electric arc generated by the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 needs to be divided into multiple segments by the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 when passing through the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31, that is, the electric arc and the arc-extinguishing grids 31 are approximately perpendicular to each other, so that the arc-extinguishing grids 31 can divide the electric arc. The gas (mixed with charged particles and some particulate matter) generated when the electric arc passes through the arc-extinguishing grids 31 will continue to move from the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31 to the plurality of metal grids 41 in the form of arc aftershocks in an attitude perpendicular to the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids 31. Since the spacing direction L of the multiple metal grids 41 is also the second direction Z, the attitude of charged particles flying towards the metal grids 41 is approximately perpendicular to the multiple metal grids 41. The initial motion of some charged particles tends to deviate towards the second direction Z, thus entering the charged particles between two adjacent metal grids 41. Not all charged particles need to deviate a large distance to be captured by the metal grids 41; that is, some charged particles between two metal grids 41 are closer to the metal grids 41 when they enter the space between the two adjacent metal grids 41, thus increasing the probability of contact with the metal grids 41 and making them easier to be captured. Moreover, under the action of the arc-extinguishing grids 31, charged particles flying out from between the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 have an initial velocity towards the second direction Z. Since the spacing direction L of the multiple metal grids 41 is also the second direction Z, charged particles are more likely to deviate towards the metal grids 41 after entering them, making them easier to be captured by the metal grids 41.

[0077] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41 may be perpendicular to the second direction Z.

[0078] Referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the multiple metal grids 41 are all flat and arranged in parallel. Since the multiple metal grids 41 are flat, they are easy to manufacture. Furthermore, the parallel arrangement of the multiple metal grids 41 reduces the difficulty of calculating the ability of the multiple metal grids 41 to capture charged particles. For example, the ability to capture charged particles can be more precisely controlled by controlling the spacing between two adjacent metal grids 41.

[0079] It is understood that in some other embodiments, the shape and arrangement of the multiple metal grids 41 may be in other forms, as can be seen in Figures 8A-8D below.

[0080] To further improve the purity of the gas emitted from the exhaust port 12 when the circuit breaker 4 generates an electric arc, referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the circuit breaker 4 further includes a first filter screen 50. The first filter screen 50 is disposed at the exhaust port 12 and is used to filter smaller particles, serving as the last line of defense for purifying the emitted gas and reducing the content and size of particles in the emitted gas. It can be understood that the second chamber 112 refers to the space between the first filter screen 50 and the plurality of metal grids 41. The longer the length of the metal grids 41 in the first direction X, the smaller the gap between the plurality of metal grids 41 and the first filter screen 50, and the smaller the space of the second chamber 112. When the plurality of metal grids 41 extend to contact the first filter screen 50, the second chamber 112 disappears. The scheme in which the plurality of metal grids 41 extend to contact the first filter screen 50 is also the scheme protected in this embodiment.

[0081] In some embodiments, the first filter 50 may be a braided mesh, or it may be a plate with a large number of gaps. The first filter 50 may also be a combination of multiple layers of braided mesh or plates with a large number of gaps. It is understood that the first filter 50 may be a single layer or multiple layers. The first filter 50 may be made of metal or an insulating material.

[0082] Referring to Figure 4, the circuit breaker 4 in this embodiment mainly uses four lines of defense to ensure the purity of the gas discharged from the circuit breaker 4. The first line of defense consists of multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31, which extinguish the arc generated when the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 break. The second line of defense is a second filter screen 42, which mainly filters out large particles generated when the arc-extinguishing grids 31 extinguish the arc, preventing large particles from entering the channel 411 formed by adjacent metal grids 41. The third line of defense is also composed of multiple metal grids 41. When the gas (containing charged particles and small particles) passes through the multiple channels 411 formed by the multiple metal grids 41, the charged particles can be captured by the metal grids 41, thereby eliminating or reducing the content of charged particles. The fourth line of defense is a first filter screen 50, which mainly filters out particles that were not eliminated by the first three lines of defense. These four lines of defense effectively ensure the purity of the discharged gas and prevent it from posing a danger to gas-powered electronic devices.

[0083] Referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the above four lines of defense are arranged roughly along the first direction X. This not only facilitates the layout, but also effectively reduces the time required for the gas to be discharged from the circuit breaker 4 since the direction of gas emission does not change significantly. This allows the circuit breaker 4 to return to a normal, non-dangerous state within an extremely short time when it breaks.

[0084] To rationally arrange the above four lines of defense, referring to Figure 4, in some embodiments, the first chamber 111, the second chamber 112, and the exhaust port 12 are arranged along the first direction X. The first chamber 111 is mainly used to place multiple arc-extinguishing grid plates 31, and multiple metal grid plates 41 are placed in the space between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112. The exhaust port 12 is used to install the first filter screen 50. The second chamber 112 is mainly used to guide and accelerate the gas, so that the gas flows quickly to the exhaust port 12 and is discharged from the circuit breaker 4.

[0085] Specifically, in the first direction X, the closer the second chamber 112 is to the exhaust port 12, the smaller its inner diameter. That is, in the direction from the first chamber 111 to the second chamber 112, the inner diameter of the second chamber 112 gradually decreases. Based on aerodynamic principles, since the second chamber 112 is closer to the exhaust port 12 and thus has a smaller inner diameter, the flow rate of the gas (containing charged particles and other particulate matter) generated when the moving contact 21 and the stationary contact 22 break can be accelerated. This increases the rate at which charged particles are captured by the metal grid 41, quickly eliminating the charged particles. Consequently, the time required for the arc to be generated and for the gas to be discharged from the circuit breaker 4 can be effectively reduced, allowing the circuit breaker 4 to return to a non-dangerous normal state within a very short time after breaking.

[0086] For example, in some embodiments, the second chamber 112 is generally funnel-shaped.

[0087] Figure 5 is a schematic diagram of the structure of the metal grid 41 in the embodiment of Figure 3.

[0088] Referring to Figure 5, in some embodiments, a notch 412 is provided at one end of each of the multiple metal grid plates 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid plate 31 (as shown in Figure 4). The size H of the notch 412 is larger the closer it is to the multiple arc-extinguishing grid plates 31. That is, the notch 412 is roughly V-shaped or trumpet-shaped.

[0089] Since multiple metal grids 41 have notches 412 at one end facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31, when gas (mixed with charged particles and other particulate matter) flows to the end of the metal grids 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31, the surface of the metal grids 41 with notches 412 can guide the gas to flow along the first direction X toward the metal grids 41. It can guide the gas into the channel 411 (as shown in Figure 4) formed by multiple metal grids 41, reducing the resistance to charged particles. This can effectively prevent the gas from flowing back due to obstruction. It can not only avoid the harm of short-circuiting the arc-extinguishing grid 31 due to gas backflow, but also improve the ability of multiple metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0090] It is understandable that the structures of the multiple metal grids 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31 are basically the same, so that the multiple metal grids 41 facing the multiple arc-extinguishing grids 31 are generally V-shaped, so as to guide the gas into the multiple channels 411 formed by the metal grids 41.

[0091] Referring to Figure 5, in some embodiments, the metal grid 41 has fixing portions 413 at opposite ends in the third direction Y. The fixing portions 413 can be used for riveting, snap-fitting, or bolting. The fixing portions 413 are used to fix directly or indirectly to the housing 10. It should be noted that the third direction Y is approximately perpendicular to the first direction X and also approximately perpendicular to the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41.

[0092] Figure 6 is a schematic diagram of the arc suppression module 40 in the embodiment of Figure 3.

[0093] To improve the ease of disassembly and assembly of the arc suppression module 40, and to facilitate installation and maintenance, referring to Figure 6, this embodiment mainly integrates multiple metal grids 41, that is, modularizes the multiple metal grids 41. Compared to directly installing multiple metal grids 41 into the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing (as shown in Figure 4), it is more convenient and faster to modularize the multiple metal grids 41 during processing and then install the modularized multiple metal grids 41 into the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing.

[0094] Specifically, the arc suppression module 40 also includes an outer frame 43, with multiple metal grid plates 41 integrated and installed within the outer frame 43. Assembly is then completed by fixing the outer frame 43, which holds the metal grid plates 41, into the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing. Of course, the outer frame 43 can also be directly removed during disassembly, facilitating the replacement or maintenance of the arc suppression module 40. Furthermore, the integrated design of the arc suppression module 40 makes it easy to install and remove, allowing users to easily replace it with different models as needed, since different models of the arc suppression module 40 have varying capabilities in eliminating charged particles.

[0095] To facilitate the assembly of multiple metal grid pieces 41 with the outer frame 43, referring to Figure 6, in some embodiments, the outer frame 43 includes an upper frame 431 and a lower frame 432. The upper frame 431 and lower frame 432 are fixed together to secure the multiple metal grid pieces 41 within the outer frame 43. The upper frame 431 and lower frame 432 can be fixed together with screws or by snap-fit. During assembly, the multiple metal grid pieces 41 can be first assembled onto the upper frame 431, and then the lower frame 432 can be fixed to the upper frame 431, thereby confining the multiple metal grid pieces 41 within the outer frame 43 and achieving the fixation of the multiple metal grid pieces 41.

[0096] Figure 7 is a cross-sectional view of the arc suppression module 40 in the embodiment of Figure 6.

[0097] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the outer frame 43 includes a bottom wall 4311 and a top wall 4321 opposite each other in the extending direction (first direction X) of the channel 411, and a plurality of side walls 435 located between the bottom wall 4311 and the top wall 4321. The bottom wall 4311 is close to a plurality of arc-extinguishing grid plates 31, and the top wall 4321 is close to the vent 12. The bottom wall 4311 has a first window 433 penetrating through the bottom wall 4311, and the top wall 4321 has a second window 434 penetrating through the top wall 4321. It is understood that the size of the first window 433 is smaller than the size of the bottom wall 4311, so that the bottom wall 4311 still has a portion for limiting and fixing the plurality of metal grid plates 41 installed in the outer frame 43. Similarly, the size of the second window 434 is smaller than the size of the top wall 4321, so that the top wall 4321 still has a portion for limiting and fixing the plurality of metal grid plates 41 installed in the outer frame 43.

[0098] Specifically, in some embodiments, the plurality of sidewalls 435 include a first outer frame 4312 and a second outer frame 4322 opposite to each other in the extending direction (first direction X) of the channel 411. The first outer frame 4312 surrounds the outer periphery of the bottom wall 4311 and forms an upper frame 431 with the bottom wall 4311. The second outer frame 4322 surrounds the outer periphery of the top wall 4321 and forms a lower frame 432 with the top wall 4321. It is understood that the first outer frame 4312 and the bottom wall 4311 may be integrally formed, and the second outer frame 4322 and the top wall 4321 may be integrally formed. Moreover, both the first outer frame 4312 and the second outer frame 4322 are generally annular.

[0099] To further facilitate the assembly and disassembly of the arc suppression module 40, referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the arc suppression module 40 further includes a fixing plate 44 and an insulating gasket 45. Two fixing plates 44 are provided, parallel and spaced apart, with multiple metal grid pieces 41 fixed between the two fixing plates 44. For example, the multiple metal grid pieces 41 can be riveted between the two fixing plates 44. Specifically, the metal grid pieces 41 can be riveted to the two fixing plates 44 via their fixing portions 413 in the third direction Y.

[0100] The fixing plate 44 can be a metal plate made of metal or an insulating plate made of insulating material.

[0101] The insulating pad 45 is generally ring-shaped and is located between the fixing plate 44 and the second filter screen 42, specifically at the periphery of the second filter screen 42. It is understood that the insulating pad 45 is made of insulating material.

[0102] Referring to Figure 7, in some embodiments, the second filter 42 is disposed inside the upper frame 431 and located on the bottom wall 4311. The second filter 42 covers the first window 433 so that the gas (mixed with charged particles and some particulate matter) passes through the second filter 42 before entering the multiple metal grids 41 inside the outer frame 43.

[0103] To stably fix the second filter screen 42 within the outer frame 43, two fixing plates 44 and a plurality of metal grids 41 fixed between the two fixing plates 44 are also assembled within the outer frame 43. One end of each fixing plate 44 in the first direction X abuts against the top wall 4321, and the other end faces the bottom wall 4311 and abuts against the insulating gasket 45 between the second filter screen 42 and the fixing plates 44. This allows the second filter screen 42 to be fixed within the outer frame 43 by the insulating gasket 45 and the fixing plates 44, and restricts the movement of the second filter screen 42 in the first direction X. The first outer frame 4312 can restrict the movement of the second filter screen 42 in other directions. In this embodiment, since the second filter screen 42 is also integrated and fixed within the outer frame 43, there is no need to provide a structure for fixing the second filter screen 42 on the inner wall of the outer frame 43, reducing the processing difficulty of the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing. Furthermore, since the second filter 42 is installed inside the outer frame 43, it is convenient to fix the second filter 42. For example, first, install the second filter 42 and the insulating gasket 45 on the upper frame 431, then install the fixing plate 44 with multiple metal grid plates 41 riveted to it onto the upper frame 431, and then cover the upper frame 431 with the lower frame 432 and fix the upper frame 431 and the lower frame 432 to complete the assembly of the arc suppression module 40. Moreover, the second filter 42 fixed in this way is not easy to loosen and has a long service life.

[0104] Similarly, the top wall 4321 and bottom wall 4311 can restrict the displacement of the fixing plate 44 in the first direction X. The first outer frame 4312 and the second outer frame 4322 can restrict the displacement of the fixing plate 44 in other directions. Thus, the outer frame 43 can stably fix the two fixing plates 44 and the multiple metal grid plates 41.

[0105] Referring to Figures 4 and 7, in some embodiments, at least a portion of the plurality of metal grids 41 extend from the second window 434 out of the outer frame 43. Since at least a portion of the metal grids 41 can extend from the second window 434 out of the outer frame 43, the length of the metal grids 41 extending in the first direction X in the arc suppression module 40 can be adjusted as needed to change the length of the channel 411 formed between adjacent metal grids 41, thereby changing the ability of the arc suppression module 40 to eliminate charged particles. It is understood that due to the unique structural design of the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing, the inner diameter is smaller closer to the exhaust port 12. Therefore, among the plurality of metal grids 41, the metal grid 41 located in the middle receives less interference from the inner cavity 11 of the outer casing, and theoretically can be designed to be longer. Thus, among the plurality of metal grids 41, the metal grid 41 located in the middle portion can extend from the second window 434 out of the outer frame 43. Furthermore, since the space inside the outer shell cavity 11 is fixed, the longer the metal grid plate 41 is, the more space the first chamber 111 needs to accommodate the arc-extinguishing grid plate 31, and the space cannot be compressed, thus the space of the second chamber 112 will be reduced accordingly.

[0106] Referring to Figures 3 and 7, in some embodiments, a limiting groove 113 is provided on the inner wall of the outer shell cavity 11. Specifically, the limiting groove 113 is located between the first chamber 111 and the second chamber 112. The outer frame 43 is installed in the limiting groove 113, and multiple side walls 435 are located on the bottom wall of the limiting groove 113, that is, multiple side walls 435 are in contact with the bottom wall of the limiting groove 113. For example, the outer frame 43 can be inserted into the limiting groove 113, thereby avoiding the use of screws and reducing the difficulty of assembly. It can be understood that the limiting groove 113 is formed by a limiting boss 1131 protruding from the inner wall of the outer shell cavity 11. Through the cooperation between the limiting boss 1131 and the outer frame 43, the outer frame 43 can be fixed to the outer shell cavity 11.

[0107] To improve the ability of multiple metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles, Figures 8A-8H below are schematic diagrams of the structure of metal grids 41 in eight different embodiments. The metal grids 41 in the following eight embodiments can effectively improve the ability of multiple metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0108] Figure 8A is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0109] Referring to Figure 8A, in some embodiments, multiple metal grids 41 are arranged in parallel, and each of the multiple metal grids 41 includes a bend 414. Specifically, each of the multiple metal grids 41 includes a first plate 415 and a second plate 416 arranged along a first direction X. The first plate 415 and the second plate 416 are integrally formed, and a bend 414 is formed at the connection between the first plate 415 and the second plate 416, thereby forming an angle between the first plate 415 and the second plate 416. In this embodiment, since each of the multiple metal grids 41 includes a bend 414, the channel 411 formed between two adjacent metal grids 41 must also have a bend 414. Therefore, the gas (containing charged particles) located in the channel 411 can more easily contact the metal grids 41 when it flows to the bend 414, and the charged particles are captured and eliminated by the metal grids 41, thereby effectively improving the elimination capability of the metal grids 41 for charged particles.

[0110] Specifically, in this embodiment, the metal grid sheet 41 can be bent once by a flat plate to form a metal grid sheet 41 with a bend 414.

[0111] Figure 8B is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0112] Referring to Figure 8B, in some embodiments, multiple metal grids 41 are arranged in parallel, and each of the multiple metal grids 41 includes two bends 414. Specifically, each of the multiple metal grids 41 includes a first plate 415, a second plate 416, and a third plate 417 arranged along a first direction X, wherein the first plate 415, the second plate 416, and the third plate 417 are integrally formed. A bend 414 is formed at the connection between the first plate 415 and the second plate 416, and a bend 414 is formed at the connection between the second plate 416 and the third plate 417. In this embodiment, the channel 411 formed between two adjacent metal grids 41 has two bends 414, so that the gas (containing charged particles) located in the channel 411 can easily contact the metal grids 41 when flowing to the two bends 414, thereby effectively improving the ability of the metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0113] In some embodiments, the bending direction of the first bend 414 is opposite to that of the second bend 414. Since charged particles only deflect towards one of the two adjacent metal grid plates 41 under the influence of magnetic force, and the bending direction of the first bend 414 and the second bend 414 in this embodiment are opposite, charged particles can only pass through one bend 414 at most. During the movement of charged particles in the channel 411, they will inevitably come into contact with the metal grid plate 41 at one of the bends 414, thereby greatly improving the ability of the metal grid plate 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0114] In some embodiments, the first plate 415 and the third plate 417 of the same metal grid sheet 41 are arranged in parallel. Specifically, the metal grid sheet 41 in this embodiment can be formed by bending a plate twice in opposite directions to form the metal grid sheet 41 with two bends 414 in this embodiment.

[0115] Figure 8C is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0116] Referring to Figure 8C, in some embodiments, most of the metal grid sheets 41 have the same structure as the metal grid sheets 41 in Figure 8B. However, the metal grid sheets 41 are not arranged in parallel. Instead, a portion (referred to as the first portion 41a) of the metal grid sheets 41 with two bends 414 are arranged in parallel, and another portion (referred to as the second portion 41b) of the metal grid sheets 41 with two bends 414 are arranged in parallel, with the two portions arranged symmetrically. Specifically, the bending directions of the two bends 414 of the metal grid sheets 41 in the first portion 41a are opposite to the bending directions of the two bends 414 of the metal grid sheets 41 in the second portion 41b.

[0117] Referring to FIG8C, in some embodiments, the first metal grid 41c in the first part 41a is the metal grid 41 closest to the second part 41b, and the second metal grid 41d in the second part 41b is the metal grid 41 closest to the first part 41a. The plurality of metal grids 41 also includes a flat plate grid 41e. In the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41, the flat plate grid 41e is disposed between the first flat plate 415 of the first metal grid 41c and the first flat plate 415 of the second metal grid 41d, so as to avoid the spacing between the first flat plate 415 of the first metal grid 41c and the first flat plate 415 of the second metal grid 41d being too large, so as to avoid charged particles not being effectively captured when passing between the first flat plate 415 of the first metal grid 41c and the first flat plate 415 of the second metal grid 41d.

[0118] Referring to Figure 8C, in some embodiments, in the spaced arrangement direction L of the multiple metal grids 41, the overall size of the end of the multiple metal grids 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31 (as shown in Figure 4) is larger than the overall size of the end away from the arc-extinguishing grid 31. This makes the multiple metal grids 41 more compatible with the structural design concept that the size of the inner cavity 11 closer to the exhaust port 12 (as shown in Figure 4) is smaller, making the design of the circuit breaker 4 (as shown in Figure 4) more reasonable.

[0119] Figure 8D is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0120] Referring to Figure 8D, in some embodiments, multiple metal grids 41 are arranged in parallel, and each metal grid 41 includes three bends 414. Specifically, each metal grid 41 includes a first plate 415, a second plate 416, a third plate 417, and a fourth plate 418 arranged along a first direction X, wherein the first plate 415, the second plate 416, the third plate 417, and the fourth plate 418 are integrally formed. A bend 414 is formed at the connection between the first plate 415 and the second plate 416, a bend 414 is formed at the connection between the second plate 416 and the third plate 417, and a bend 414 is formed at the connection between the third plate 417 and the fourth plate 418. In this embodiment, the channel 411 formed between two adjacent metal grids 41 has three bends 414, so that the gas (containing charged particles) located in the channel 411 can easily contact the metal grids 41 when flowing to the three bends 414, thereby effectively improving the ability of the metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0121] In some embodiments, the first plate 415 and the fourth plate 418 are parallel and substantially in the same plane, and the three bends 414 are generally V-shaped.

[0122] Figure 8E is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0123] Referring to Figure 8E, in some embodiments, the structure of the multiple metal grids 41 is the same as that of the metal grids 41 in Figure 8D. However, when arranging the multiple metal grids 41, not all of them are arranged in parallel. Instead, a portion (referred to as the first portion 41a) of the metal grids 41 with two bends 414 are arranged in parallel, and another portion (referred to as the second portion 41b) of the metal grids 41 with two bends 414 are arranged in parallel, with the two portions of metal grids 41 arranged symmetrically. Specifically, the bending directions of the three bends 414 of the metal grids 41 in the first portion 41a are opposite to the bending directions of the three bends 414 of the metal grids 41 in the second portion 41b.

[0124] Figure 8F is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0125] Referring to Figure 8F, in some embodiments, multiple metal grids 41 are arranged in parallel, and each metal grid 41 includes six bends 414. Compared to the metal grids 41 in Figure 8D, the metal grids 41 in this embodiment have two V-shaped structures similar to those in Figure 8D. In this embodiment, the channel 411 formed between two adjacent metal grids 41 has six bends 414, so that the gas (containing charged particles) located in the channel 411 can easily contact the metal grids 41 when flowing to the six bends 414, thereby effectively improving the ability of the metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0126] It is understandable that, given a fixed bending angle of the bend 414, the more bends 414 there are in the metal grid 41, the higher the ability of the metal grid 41 to eliminate charged particles. In some other embodiments, the multiple metal grids 41 may each include four, five or more bends 414.

[0127] Figure 8G is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0128] Referring to Figure 8G, in some embodiments, multiple metal grids 41 are arranged in parallel, and each of the multiple metal grids 41 has a wavy sheet structure. The process of processing multiple metal grids 41 into a wavy sheet structure is relatively simple and can reduce processing costs. Secondly, since the multiple metal grids 41 have a wavy sheet structure, the bends of the channel 411 formed by adjacent metal grids 41 are smoother and less prone to accumulation, avoiding blockage of the channel 411 after long-term adsorption of charged particles. At the same time, since the multiple metal grids 41 have a wavy sheet structure, the channel 411 formed by two adjacent metal grids 41 is also roughly a wavy channel 411. Therefore, gas (mixed with charged particles) cannot flow out of the channel 411 in a straight line. When passing through the bends, it is very easy to come into contact with the metal grids 41. Thus, this embodiment can effectively improve the ability of the metal grids 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0129] Figure 8H is another structural schematic diagram of the plurality of metal grids 41 in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0130] Referring to Figure 8H, in some embodiments, the plurality of metal grids 41 are generally flat, thus facilitating manufacturing. In the spacing direction L of the plurality of metal grids 41, the overall size of the end of the plurality of metal grids 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31 is larger than the overall size of the end of the arc-extinguishing grid 31. For example, in some embodiments, the size of the channel 411 formed by any two adjacent metal grids 41 facing the arc-extinguishing grid 31 is larger than the size of the end away from the arc-extinguishing grid 31. Therefore, the flow direction of the gas (containing charged particles) within the channel 411 will form an angle with at least one of the metal grids 41, meaning that the gas (containing charged particles) is more likely to contact the metal grid 41 during flow. Thus, this embodiment can effectively improve the ability of the metal grid 41 to eliminate charged particles.

[0131] It is understood that Figures 8A-8H above are only eight different structural schematic diagrams of the metal grid 41 in this embodiment, and the metal grid 41 in this embodiment can also be other structures.

[0132] Figure 9 is a structural schematic diagram of another arc suppression module 40 provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0133] Referring to Figure 9, in some embodiments, the arc suppression module 40 includes two opposing and spaced-apart fixing plates 44, with a plurality of metal grid plates 41 fixed between the two fixing plates 44. Both fixing plates 44 extend from the first chamber 111 to the second chamber 112, meaning the two fixing plates 44 are parallel to the first direction X. The two fixing plates 44 are fixed to the inner wall of the outer shell cavity 11. In this embodiment, the outer frame 43 described in the previous embodiment is unnecessary. The plurality of metal grid plates 41 can be pre-fixed together using the two fixing plates 44, and then the arc suppression module 40, composed of the two fixing plates 44 and the plurality of metal grid plates 41, can be installed into the outer shell cavity 11, thus improving assembly convenience.

[0134] Figure 10 is a structural schematic diagram of another arc suppression module 40 provided in the application embodiment.

[0135] Compared to the arc-extinguishing module 40 in the embodiment of Figure 6, the main difference in this embodiment lies in the number of second filter screens 42. Referring to Figure 10, in some embodiments, there are multiple second filter screens 42, such as the two shown in Figure 10, and there can be more. An insulating pad 45 is provided between two adjacent second filter screens 42. The insulating pad 45 is used to leave a gap between the two second filter screens 42. The inner diameter of the through hole of the second filter screen 42 facing the first window 433 is larger, so that larger particles can be filtered into the gap between adjacent second filter screens 42. This can prevent large particles from falling back to the location of the arc-extinguishing grid 31 and causing a short circuit between the arc-extinguishing grid 31, and can also prevent large particles from falling between multiple metal grids 41 and causing the channel 411 to be blocked.

[0136] Figure 11 is a schematic diagram of the structure of an insulating pad 45 provided in the embodiment of the application.

[0137] To improve the strength of the insulating pad 45, referring to Figure 11, the insulating pad 45 includes an outer ring 451 and a reinforcing rib 452 located inside and connected to the outer ring 451. The reinforcing rib 452 can improve the strength of the insulating pad 45. The insulating pad 45 is disposed between two adjacent second filter screens 42 (as shown in Figure 10), wherein the outer ring 451 is located at the periphery of the two adjacent second filter screens 42, and the reinforcing rib 452 is located in the middle area of ​​the two adjacent second filter screens 42. Thus, the reinforcing rib 452 can also support the two adjacent second filter screens 42, preventing the two adjacent second filter screens 42 from sticking together, leaving a gap between the two filter screens to accommodate the filtered particles.

[0138] In some embodiments, the reinforcing rib 452 includes transverse ribs and longitudinal ribs, and the transverse ribs and longitudinal ribs are connected together to improve the overall strength of the insulating pad 45.

[0139] The above description is merely a specific embodiment of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the technical scope disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A circuit breaker, characterized in that, The circuit breaker includes a housing, a moving contact, a stationary contact, multiple arc-extinguishing grids, and multiple metal grids. The housing has an exhaust port for communicating with the outside. The multiple metal grids are arranged at intervals in the inner cavity of the housing. The multiple arc-extinguishing grids are arranged at intervals in the inner cavity of the housing and are located on the side of the multiple metal grids away from the exhaust port. The moving contact and the stationary contact are located in the inner cavity of the housing and are located on the side of the multiple arc-extinguishing grids away from the multiple metal grids. A channel is formed between any two adjacent metal grids, and the extension direction of the channel is consistent with the direction of the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids toward the plurality of metal grids. The channel connects the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids and the exhaust port.

2. The circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that, The spacing direction of the plurality of metal grids is the same as the spacing direction of the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids.

3. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes a first filter screen, which is located at the vent hole, and a gap is left between the first filter screen and the plurality of metal grids.

4. The circuit breaker according to claim 3, characterized in that, The inner cavity of the outer casing is located in the area between the first filter screen and the plurality of metal grids. The closer the inner cavity is to the first filter screen, the smaller its inner diameter.

5. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, At least one of any two adjacent metal grids includes at least one bend, the bend being formed by bending the metal grid toward or away from the adjacent metal grid.

6. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 1-5, characterized in that, Each of the plurality of metal grids has a notch at one end facing the arc-extinguishing grid, and the size of the notch is larger the closer it is to the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids.

7. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes an outer frame, which is disposed within the inner cavity of the housing and located between the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids and the vent. The outer frame includes a bottom wall and a top wall opposite to each other in the extension direction of the channel, and a plurality of side walls located between the bottom wall and the top wall. The bottom wall is close to the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids, and the top wall is close to the vent. The bottom wall has a first window penetrating through the bottom wall, and the top wall has a second window penetrating through the top wall. The plurality of metal grids are fixed within the outer frame.

8. The circuit breaker according to claim 7, characterized in that, The inner wall of the outer shell cavity is provided with a limiting groove, the outer frame is installed in the limiting groove, and the plurality of side walls are located on the bottom wall of the limiting groove.

9. The circuit breaker according to claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, At least a portion of the plurality of metal grids extend from the second window out of the outer frame.

10. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 7-9, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes a second filter screen located within the outer frame, between the plurality of metal grids and the bottom wall, and covering the first window.

11. The circuit breaker according to claim 10, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes an insulating gasket, and there are multiple second filters arranged in parallel and at intervals, with the insulating gasket provided between any two adjacent second filters.

12. The circuit breaker according to claim 11, characterized in that, In the plurality of second filter screens, the larger the size of the through holes on the second filter screen that is closer to the bottom wall.

13. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 7-12, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes two opposing fixing plates, with the plurality of metal grids fixed between the two fixing plates. Both fixing plates extend along the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids toward the metal grids, and the two fixing plates are fixed within the outer frame.

14. The circuit breaker according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes two fixing plates that are opposite to each other and spaced apart. The plurality of metal grids are fixed between the two fixing plates. Both fixing plates extend along the plurality of arc-extinguishing grids toward the metal grids. The two fixing plates are fixed to the inner wall of the inner cavity of the housing.

15. A power supply cabinet, characterized in that, The power cabinet includes a cabinet body, a power module, and a circuit breaker as described in any one of claims 1-14 above. The power module is disposed in the cabinet body, and the circuit breaker is disposed in the cabinet body and electrically connected to the power module.

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