Arc-extinguishing apparatus

Abstract

An arc-extinguishing apparatus is disclosed. The arc-extinguishing apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention comprises: a plurality of arc grids formed in a plate shape, and disposed to be spaced apart in the thickness direction thereof; each of a pair of arc-extinguishing side plates coupled to respective sides in the width direction of the plurality of arc grids; and an insulating material layer which is formed on the surface of the arc grid, and which provides a cutting gas in response to a generated arc, wherein the arc grid can include: an arc grid body which is formed in a plate shape, and which has a length in a first direction and a height in a second direction; and an arc grid rack, which is continuous from one end portion in the second direction of the arc grid body, extends in the second direction, and has the insulating material layer formed on the outer surface thereof.

Description

Arc Soho device

[0001] The present invention relates to an arc extinguishing mechanism, and more specifically, to an arc extinguishing mechanism having a structure capable of effectively extinguishing an arc generated during a blocking operation.

[0002] A circuit breaker is installed in a power system and connected to the power source and the load, respectively, to enable current flow. If an abnormal current occurs between the power source and the load, the circuit breaker performs a tripping operation to interrupt the current flow between them. As a result, the power source and the load can be protected from damage caused by the abnormal current.

[0003] Typically, a circuit breaker includes a fixed contact that is fixedly installed and a movable contact that is movably provided. The movable contact is provided to be movable in a direction toward the fixed contact or in a direction opposite to the fixed contact. When the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact, the power source and the load can be energized to each other. In the event of an abnormal current, the movable contact separates from the fixed contact, and the energization of the power source and the load is released.

[0004] Even at the moment when the movable contact and the fixed contact separate, the current—specifically the abnormal current—continues to flow through them. Therefore, when the movable contact and the fixed contact separate, the energy of the current being conducted is converted into a flow of electrons at high temperature and high pressure. This converted flow of electrons is called an arc.

[0005] As mentioned above, an arc is a flow of electrons at high temperature and high pressure. Therefore, if the arc remains inside the circuit breaker instead of being discharged to the outside, there is a risk that other components of the breaker may be damaged by the heat or pressure of the arc. Accordingly, a process is required to discharge the generated arc to the outside while reducing its temperature and pressure; this is called the arc extinguishing process.

[0006] For arc extinguishment, the arc must be extended sufficiently and rapidly. Furthermore, the extended arc must be able to be divided into short arcs (typically referred to as short arcs) and discharged externally. To this end, circuit breakers are generally equipped with an arc extinguishing mechanism comprising multiple grids.

[0007] When an arc occurs, the heat or pressure generated by the arc can also affect the grid. If the grid is damaged by the generated heat or pressure, the arc extinguishing capability is reduced, raising concerns that the operational reliability of the arc extinguishing mechanism may be compromised.

[0008] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-1031975 discloses an arc extinguishing mechanism for a DC switch. Specifically, it discloses an arc extinguishing mechanism for a DC switch capable of inducing a generated arc by utilizing permanent magnets arranged to face each other with a fixed contact and a movable contact in between.

[0009] However, the arc extinguishing mechanism disclosed in the aforementioned prior art requires a separate permanent magnet for extinguishing the arc. There is a concern that the arc extinguishing capability may be reduced if the magnetic force weakens as the circuit breaker is used continuously, or if the permanent magnet is damaged by the generated arc.

[0010] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-1986552 discloses an arc extinguishing device for a DC air circuit breaker. Specifically, it discloses an arc extinguishing device for a DC air circuit breaker capable of extinguishing a generated arc by utilizing an arc guide and a sealing member disposed adjacent to the end of a grid.

[0011] However, in the arc extinguishing device disclosed in the aforementioned prior art, the arc guide is positioned only in a portion adjacent to the fixed contact. Therefore, while it is possible to partially guide the arc originating from the fixed contact, it fails to provide a method for extinguishing the entire arc that extends as the movable contact moves.

[0012] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-1031975 (May 9, 2011)

[0013] Korean Registered Patent Document No. 10-1986552 (June 7, 2019)

[0014] The present invention aims to solve the aforementioned problems, and the objective of the present invention is to provide an arc extinguishing mechanism with a structure capable of improving the arc extinguishing capability of a generated arc.

[0015] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an arc extinguishing mechanism having a structure that can improve the arc extinguishing capability of the configuration itself for extinguishing a generated arc.

[0016] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an arc extinguishing mechanism with a structure that can improve the arc extinguishing capability without excessive structural changes.

[0017] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an arc extinguishing mechanism having a structure capable of effectively generating gas to induce a generated arc.

[0018] Another objective of the present invention is to provide an arc extinguishing mechanism having a structure in which the combined state of the components for guiding the generated arc can be stably maintained.

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

[0020] According to one aspect of the present invention, an arc extinguishing mechanism is provided, comprising: a plurality of arc grids formed in a plate shape and spaced apart along the thickness direction; a pair of arc extinguishing side plates each coupled to a side in the width direction of the plurality of arc grids; and an insulating material layer formed on the surface of the arc grids and configured to react with a generated arc to provide a cutting gas, wherein the arc grids comprise: an arc grid body formed in a plate shape and having a length in a first direction and a height in a second direction; and an arc grid rack that is continuous with one end in the second direction of the arc grid body, extends in the second direction, and has the insulating material layer formed on its outer surface.

[0021] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided in which a pair of arc grid racks are provided, spaced apart along the first direction, and the insulating material layer is formed on each surface of the pair of arc grid racks.

[0022] Additionally, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the arc grid is defined by being surrounded by the arc grid body and a pair of arc grid racks, and includes an arc extinguishing space in which a fixed contact and a movable contact are located.

[0023] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided in which the insulating material layer is formed in each part of the surface of a pair of arc grid racks that surrounds the arc extinguishing space from the outside.

[0024] Additionally, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided in which the insulating material layer comprises one or more materials selected from fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0025] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the insulating material layer is formed by applying it to the surface of the arc grid rack.

[0026] In addition, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the insulating material layer is formed by one or more of the following methods: laser welding, self-piercing riveting (SPR), friction stir welding (FSW), mechanical clinching, and hot press bonding.

[0027] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, comprising an arc guide that is respectively coupled to a pair of arc extinguishing side plates and a plurality of arc grids and configured to react with the arc to provide the cutting gas.

[0028] In addition, the arc guide may be provided with an arc extinguishing mechanism that at least partially accommodates the arc grid rack and is coupled with the arc grid.

[0029] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the arc grid racks are provided in pairs and spaced apart along the first direction, and the arc guides include: a first arc guide coupled to one of the arc grid racks and one of the arc extinguishing side plates; and a second arc guide coupled to another of the arc grid racks and another of the arc extinguishing side plates.

[0030] In addition, the arc guide may be provided with an arc extinguishing mechanism formed by including one or more materials selected from fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0031] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the arc grid is defined by being surrounded by the arc grid body and the arc grid rack, and includes an arc extinguishing space in which a fixed contact and a movable contact are located; and an arc grid groove in which one end of the second direction is surrounded by the arc grid body and the other end of the second direction communicates with the arc extinguishing space.

[0032] Additionally, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the insulating material layer is formed between the portion of the arc grid rack where the first end of the second direction of the arc grid rack and the first end of the second direction of the arc grid groove are located.

[0033] At this time, an arc extinguishing mechanism may be provided, wherein the insulating material layer is formed between the portion of the arc grid rack where one end of the arc grid rack in the second direction and the other end of the arc grid groove in the second direction are located.

[0034] According to the above configuration, the arc extinguishing mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention can improve the arc extinguishing capability of the generated arc.

[0035] In addition, according to the above configuration, the arc extinguishing mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention may have an improved arc extinguishing capability of the configuration itself for extinguishing a generated arc.

[0036] In addition, according to the above configuration, the arc extinguishing mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention can improve the arc extinguishing capability without excessive structural changes.

[0037] In addition, according to the above configuration, the arc extinguishing mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention can effectively generate a gas to induce the generated arc.

[0038] In addition, according to the above configuration, the arc extinguishing mechanism according to the embodiment of the present invention can stably maintain the combined state of the configuration for guiding the generated arc.

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

[0040] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an arc extinguishing mechanism according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] Figure 2 is a front view illustrating the arc extinguishing mechanism of Figure 1.

[0042] Fig. 3 is a rear view illustrating the arc extinguishing mechanism of Fig. 1.

[0043] Figure 4 is a bottom view illustrating the arc extinguishing mechanism of Figure 1.

[0044] Fig. 5 is an exploded perspective view illustrating the arc extinguishing mechanism of Fig. 1.

[0045] FIG. 6 is an exploded perspective view illustrating an arc grid provided in the arc extinguishing mechanism of FIG. 1.

[0046] Fig. 7 is a front view illustrating the arc grid of Fig. 6.

[0047] Fig. 8 is a rear view illustrating the arc grid of Fig. 6.

[0048] Fig. 9 is a front view illustrating a modified example of the arc grid of Fig. 6.

[0049] FIG. 10 is a front view illustrating a modified example of the arc grid of FIG. 6.

[0050] FIG. 11 is a front view illustrating the state in which the arc grid of FIG. 6 is combined with the arc guide.

[0051] FIG. 12 is a side cross-sectional view of AA illustrating the state of FIG. 11.

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention are described in detail with reference to the attached drawings so that those skilled in the art can easily implement the present invention. The present invention may be embodied in various different forms and is not limited to the embodiments described herein. To clearly explain the present invention, parts unrelated to the description in the drawings have been omitted, and the same reference numerals have been used throughout the specification for identical or similar components.

[0053] The words and terms used in this specification and claims are not limited to their ordinary or dictionary meanings, but should be interpreted in a meaning and concept consistent with the technical spirit of the invention in accordance with the principles by which the inventor defines terms and concepts to best describe his invention.

[0054] Therefore, the embodiments described in this specification and the configurations illustrated in the drawings correspond to preferred embodiments of the present invention and do not represent all technical ideas of the present invention; thus, various equivalents and modifications that may replace such configurations may exist at the time of filing the present invention.

[0055] In the following description, descriptions of some components may be omitted to clarify the features of the present invention.

[0056]

[0057] In the following description, the term "connection" refers to one or more members being connected to each other in a manner that allows for fluid communication. In one embodiment, the connection may be formed by members such as a conduit, a pipe, or a piping system. In the following description, the term "connection" may be used interchangeably with the meaning that one or more members are "fluidly connected" to each other.

[0058] In the following description, the term "conduction" means that one or more components are connected to each other to transmit current or electrical signals. In one embodiment, the conduction may be formed in a wired form by a conductor member, etc., or in a wireless form such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or RFID. In one embodiment, the conduction may include the meaning of "communication."

[0059] In the following description, the term "cutting gas" refers to any gas capable of cooling the arc and guiding the generated arc in a desired direction.

[0060] The terms "upper side," "lower side," "left side," "right side," "front side," and "rear side" used in the following description shall be understood by referring to the coordinate system depicted throughout the attached drawings.

[0061]

[0062] Referring to FIGS. 1 to 5, an arc extinguishing mechanism (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. The arc extinguishing mechanism (10) may be provided in a circuit breaker, etc. The circuit breaker may be energized with an external power source and a load, respectively.

[0063] The above current may be formed as the fixed contact and the movable contact provided in the circuit breaker come into contact and conduct current. The arc extinguishing mechanism (10) may be positioned adjacent to the fixed contact or the movable contact and configured to extinguish the arc generated by the separation between them.

[0064] At this time, the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to generate a predetermined gas with respect to the generated arc. The gas may provide pressure to guide the generated arc toward a direction for extinguishing, that is, toward the arc grid (500) to be described later. Accordingly, the generated arc can be rapidly guided and extinguished.

[0065] At this time, the configuration for generating the above gas may be provided separately or directly provided in the arc grid (500). Accordingly, the arc can be induced and extinguished by the gas (i.e., cutting gas) generated in various configurations, thereby improving the arc extinguishing effect.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) includes an arc extinguishing frame (100), an arc extinguishing side plate (200), an arc runner (300), an arc guide (400), and an arc grid (500). Additionally, referring further to FIGS. 7 through 10, the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) includes an insulating material layer (600).

[0067] At this time, the arc guide (400) can be combined with the arc grid (500) to generate cutting gas to induce the generated arc. Additionally, the insulating material layer (600) can be formed directly on the arc grid (500) to generate cutting gas to induce the generated arc.

[0068] Accordingly, it will be understood that the generated arc can react with various configurations of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) to generate cutting gas.

[0069]

[0070] The arc extinguishing frame (100) forms part of the outer shape of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10). The arc extinguishing frame (100) can be combined with other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) to support them.

[0071] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing frame (100) forms one side in the height direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), i.e., the upper side, and is combined with and supports the arc extinguishing side plate (200).

[0072] Since the arc extinguishing side plate (200) is combined with other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), namely the arc runner (300), arc guide (400), and arc grid (500), it can be said that the arc extinguishing frame (100) indirectly supports the other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) through the arc extinguishing side plate (200).

[0073] The arc extinguishing frame (100) forms one side in the height direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment. The arc extinguishing frame (100) is positioned to cover the arc extinguishing side plate (200), arc runner (300), arc guide (400), and arc grid (500) from the upper side.

[0074] Although not shown, a space may be formed inside the arc extinguishing frame (100). The space may accommodate a configuration for filtering by-products remaining thereon before the generated arc is discharged to the outside.

[0075] One side in the height direction of the above space, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open. The generated arc can be filtered by the above configuration and then discharged to the outside through the one side.

[0076] The other side in the height direction of the above space, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open. The generated arc is divided by a plurality of arc grids (500) and can be guided toward the above space.

[0077] The arc extinguishing frame (100) may be of any shape that combines with and supports other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) and forms a passage through which the arc passing through the arc grid (500) is discharged to the outside. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing frame (100) is a three-dimensional shape having a length in the front-rear direction that is longer than the width in the left-right direction and a height in the up-down direction.

[0078] The other side in the height direction of the arc shovel frame (100), that is, each side in the width direction of the lower side, that is, the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, are joined with the arc shovel side plate (200).

[0079] The arc extinguishing side plate (200) constitutes another part of the external shape of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10). The arc extinguishing side plate (200) can be combined with and supported by the arc extinguishing frame (100). At the same time, the arc extinguishing side plate (200) can be combined with and supported by other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), namely the arc runner (300), arc guide (400), and arc grid (500).

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing side plate (200) constitutes each side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), namely the left and right sides. The arc extinguishing side plate (200) surrounds each side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing frame (100), arc runner (300), and arc grid (500) from the outside and is coupled to them. The arc extinguishing side plate (200) is coupled to each of the multiple arc guides (400) to support them.

[0081] The arc extinguishing side plate (200) may be of any shape capable of being combined with the arc extinguishing frame (100) and combined with the arc runner (300), arc guide (400), and arc grid (500) to support them. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc extinguishing side plate (200) is formed as a polygonal plate having a length in the front-rear direction, a thickness in the left-right direction, and a height in the up-down direction.

[0082] A plurality of through holes may be formed inside the arc extinguishing side plate (200). Some of the plurality of through holes may be coupled with protrusions formed on the arc extinguishing frame (100). Other of the plurality of through holes may be coupled with protrusions formed on the arc runner (300).

[0083] Another portion of the multiple through holes may be coupled with a projection formed on the arc runner (300), namely a coupling projection (540). Furthermore, the remainder of the multiple through holes may be coupled with a fastening member coupled with the arc guide (400).

[0084] A plurality of arc extinguishing side plates (200) may be provided. A plurality of arc extinguishing side plates (200) may be connected to the arc extinguishing frame (100), arc runner (300), arc guide (400), and arc grid (500) at different locations, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of arc extinguishing side plates (200) is provided, including a first arc extinguishing side plate (210) and a second arc extinguishing side plate (220).

[0085] The first arc extinguishing side plate (210) is located on one side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The first arc extinguishing side plate (210) is combined with and supports the left portion of the arc extinguishing frame (100), arc runner (300), and arc grid (500), as well as the first arc guide (410).

[0086] The second arc extinguishing side plate (220) is located on the other side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The second arc extinguishing side plate (220) is combined with and supports the right portion of the arc extinguishing frame (100), arc runner (300), and arc grid (500), as well as the second arc guide (420).

[0087] The first arc extinguishing side plate (210) and the second arc extinguishing side plate (220) are arranged facing each other with an arc runner (300), an arc guide (400), and an arc grid (500) placed between them.

[0088] The arc runner (300) guides the generated arc to proceed toward the arc grid (500). The arc runner (300) may be positioned adjacent to the direction of movement of the movable contact (not shown). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc runner (300) is positioned on one side in the longitudinal direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), specifically on the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0089] The arc runner (300) is positioned adjacent to the arc extinguishing frame (100). The arc runner (300) can guide the generated arc toward the arc extinguishing frame (100). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc runner (300) is positioned below the arc extinguishing frame (100).

[0090] The arc runner (300) is combined with the arc extinguishing side plate (200). The arc runner (300) may be supported by the arc extinguishing side plate (200). In the illustrated embodiment, one side of the arc runner (300) in the width direction is combined and supported by the first arc extinguishing side plate (210), and the other side is combined and supported by the second arc extinguishing side plate (220). The arc runner (300) is located on one side of the arc extinguishing side plate (200) in the length direction, which is the rear side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0091] The arc runner (300) is positioned adjacent to the arc grid (500). Specifically, a portion of the arc runner (300) is positioned below the arc grid body (510) and between a pair of arc grid racks (520). That is, the portion of the arc runner (300) can be positioned in a space defined by being surrounded by each portion of the arc grid (500).

[0092] Accordingly, the arc generated in the above space can be rapidly guided toward the arc grid (500) through the arc runner (300).

[0093] The arc runner (300) may be composed of multiple parts. One part of the arc runner (300) may extend in the height direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) and surround the arc grid (500) on one side. Another part of the arc runner (300) may be continuous with the said part and extend in the length direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10).

[0094] Protrusions may be formed protrudingly on each side in the width direction of the above-mentioned part and the above-mentioned other part of the arc runner (300), on the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, respectively. The protrusions may be inserted and coupled into through holes formed inside the first arc extinguishing side plate (210) and the second arc extinguishing side plate (220).

[0095] The arc guide (400) is a component that reacts with the generated arc to generate cutting gas. The arc guide (400) is coupled to the arc extinguishing side plate (200) and the arc grid (500), respectively, and is positioned adjacent to a fixed contact (not shown) or a movable contact (not shown).

[0096] The arc guide (400) can react with an arc generated when a movable contact (not shown) is separated from a fixed contact (not shown). The arc guide (400) can receive cutting gas and then release the cutting gas by the heat or pressure provided by the arc.

[0097] The released cutting gas increases the pressure in the space surrounded by the arc grid (500), so that the generated arc can be rapidly guided toward the arc grid (500) and the arc extinguishing frame (100). Additionally, the released cutting gas can cool the arc to extinguish it.

[0098] The arc guide (400) is coupled to the arc extinguishing side plate (200). The arc guide (400) is coupled to one side in the height direction of the arc extinguishing side plate (200), and to the inner side of the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. In one embodiment, the arc guide (400) may be coupled to the arc extinguishing side plate (200) by a separate fastening member such as a screw.

[0099] The arc guide (400) is positioned adjacent to the arc runner (300). The arc guide (400) may be partially covered by the other part of the arc runner (300), namely the part extending in the front-rear direction. Thus, the arc can be rapidly induced and extinguished by the cutting gas generated in the arc guide (400) and the arc runner (300).

[0100] The arc guide (400) is coupled to the arc grid (500). The arc guide (400) is coupled to an arc grid rack (520) located on one side in the height direction of the arc grid (500), which is the lower side in the illustrated embodiment. At this time, the arc guide (400) may be coupled to the arc grid (500) by at least partially wrapping the arc grid rack (520). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc guide (400) is coupled to the arc grid (500) by surrounding a portion adjacent to the lower end of the arc grid rack (520).

[0101] The arc guide (400) is combined with the arc extinguishing side plate (200) and the arc grid (500), is positioned adjacent to the arc runner (300), and may be of any shape capable of providing cutting gas in response to the generated arc. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc guide (400) is a three-dimensional shape having a triangular cross-section and a length in the front-rear direction.

[0102] The arc guide (400) may be composed of any material capable of providing cutting gas. In one embodiment, the arc guide (400) may be composed of materials such as fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT).

[0103] In the above embodiment, the arc guide (400) may be formed such that the cross-sectional area of ​​one side in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the front side, is greater than the cross-sectional area of ​​the other side in the longitudinal direction, i.e., the rear side.

[0104] A plurality of arc guides (400) may be provided. A plurality of arc guides (400) may each be coupled to a plurality of arc extinguishing side plates (200) and each may be coupled to an arc grid (500) at different locations. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of arc guides (400) is provided, including a first arc guide (410) and a second arc guide (420).

[0105] The first arc guide (410) is located on one side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), on the left side in the illustrated embodiment. The first arc guide (410) is connected to the first arc extinguishing side plate (210) and the left arc grid rack (520), respectively. The second arc guide (420) is located on the other side in the width direction of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10), on the right side in the illustrated embodiment. The second arc guide (420) is connected to the second arc extinguishing side plate (220) and the right arc grid rack (520), respectively.

[0106] The first arc guide (410) and the second arc guide (420) are positioned facing each other with the space formed between a pair of arc grid racks (520) in between.

[0107] The arc grid (500) splits and cools the arc. The generated arc passes through the arc grid (500) by the arc runner (300), splits and cools, and can be guided to the arc extinguishing frame (100). The arc grid (500) substantially performs the role of cooling and extinguishing the generated arc.

[0108] The arc grid (500) is combined with the arc extinguishing frame (100). One side of the arc grid (500) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is partially accommodated by the arc extinguishing frame (100). The said one side of the arc grid (500), i.e., the upper side, is covered by the arc extinguishing frame (100).

[0109] The arc grid (500) is combined with the arc extinguishing side plate (200). Each side of the arc grid (500) in the width direction, the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, is combined with the arc extinguishing side plate (200). The arc grid (500) is supported by the arc extinguishing side plate (200).

[0110] The arc grid (500) is positioned adjacent to the arc runner (300). The generated arc can be guided by the arc runner (300) toward the arc grid (500).

[0111] The arc grid (500) is coupled with the arc guide (400). The other side of the arc grid (500) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is coupled with the arc guide (400). The other side of the arc grid (500), i.e., the lower side, can be partially accommodated in the arc guide (400).

[0112] Furthermore, an insulating material layer (600) may be formed on the arc grid (500). The insulating material layer (600) formed on the surface of the arc grid (500) may react with the arc to generate cutting gas.

[0113] Accordingly, as described below, the arc guide (400) and the insulating material layer (600) can react with the generated arc to generate cutting gas, respectively. As a result, the generated arc can be rapidly induced and cooled to be extinguished. A detailed explanation of this will be provided later.

[0114] The arc grid (500) may be formed by including any material capable of splitting and cooling the generated arc. In one embodiment, the arc grid (500) may be formed of magnetizable copper (Cu), iron (Fe), or an alloy material containing these.

[0115] The arc grid (500) can be combined with other components of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) and formed in any shape capable of dividing and cooling the generated arc. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc grid (500) is provided in the form of a polygonal plate having a length in the left-right direction, a height in the up-down direction, and a thickness in the front-back direction.

[0116] A plurality of arc grids (500) may be provided. A plurality of arc grids (500) may be spaced apart from each other in the longitudinal direction of the arc extinguishing frame (100) and each may be coupled with an arc extinguishing side plate (200) and an arc guide (400). In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of arc grids (500) are spaced apart in the front-rear direction.

[0117] One of the arc grids (500) located on the outermost side is exposed to the outside. Another arc grid (500) located on the other outermost side is surrounded by an arc runner (300).

[0118] Meanwhile, a plurality of arc grids (500) can be divided into a first arc grid (501) and a second arc grid (502) according to their arrangement direction.

[0119] That is, as best illustrated in FIG. 6, the arc grid (500) can be divided into a first arc grid (501) in which the internal groove is positioned to the right and a second arc grid (502) in which the internal groove is positioned to the left. At this time, the first arc grid (501) and the second arc grid (502) have the same shape, differing only in their orientation. That is, if the first arc grid (501) is flipped, it can become the second arc grid (502).

[0120] Additionally, a pair of first arc grids (501) are arranged on one side of the direction in which a plurality of arc grids (500) are arranged side by side, in the illustrated embodiment, on the front side. On the rear side, a second arc grid (502) and a first arc grid (501) are arranged alternately.

[0121] Accordingly, the generated arc can be divided, cooled, and extinguished by the first arc grid (501) and the second arc grid (502) arranged alternately.

[0122] In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 to 10, the arc grid (500) includes an arc grid body (510), an arc grid rack (520), an arc space (530), a coupling projection (540), an arc grid groove (550), and an arc grid inner circumference (560).

[0123] The arc grid body (510) constitutes the body of the arc grid (500). The arc grid body (510) is formed to have the largest area among the parts of the arc grid (500). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc grid body (510) constitutes one side in the height direction of the arc grid (500), the upper side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0124] One end of the arc grid body (510) in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, the upper end, has a portion formed to protrude upward. The portion of the upper end of the arc grid body (510) can be accommodated inside the arc extinguishing frame (100). The other portion of the upper end of the arc grid body (510) can support the arc extinguishing frame (100).

[0125] The other end in the height direction of the arc grid body (510), the lower end in the illustrated embodiment, is continuous with the arc grid rack (520). As will be described later, a plurality of arc grid racks (520) may be provided.

[0126] The lower end of the arc grid body (510) may be connected to each of the multiple arc grid racks (520). The other end of the arc grid body (510), i.e., the lower end, may form a height-direction limit point where an insulating material layer (600) is formed.

[0127] The arc grid body (510) partially surrounds the arc space (530). The arc grid body (510) surrounds the arc space (530) on one side in the height direction, in the illustrated embodiment, on the upper side. A connecting projection (540) is formed on each side in the width direction of the arc grid body (510), in the illustrated embodiment, at the left and right ends.

[0128] The arc grid rack (520) constitutes another part of the arc grid (500). The arc grid (500) is formed to have a relatively small area among the parts of the arc grid rack (520). The arc grid rack (520) constitutes the other side in the height direction of the arc grid (500), the lower side in the illustrated embodiment.

[0129] The arc grid rack (520) is the part where the arc grid (500) is joined to the arc guide (400). The arc grid rack (520) can be joined to the arc guide (400) at least partially.

[0130] The portion of the arc grid rack (520) that is coupled with the arc guide (400) may be accommodated in a space formed inside the arc guide (400) and surrounded by the arc guide (400). In the illustrated embodiment, one side in the height direction of the arc grid rack (520), i.e., the lower side, is coupled with the arc guide (400).

[0131] The other end of the arc grid rack (520) in the height direction, the upper end in the illustrated embodiment, is continuous with the lower end of the arc grid body (510). The arc grid rack (520) partially surrounds the arc space (530). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc grid rack (520) surrounds the arc space (530) on each side in the width direction, namely the left and right sides. On the outer side in the width direction of the arc grid rack (520), the left or right side in the illustrated embodiment, a connecting projection (540) is formed protruding.

[0132] An insulating material layer (600) is formed on the arc grid rack (520). Accordingly, the insulating material layer (600) formed on the part of the arc grid rack (520) that is not accommodated in the arc guide (400) can also generate cutting gas. As a result, the arc extinguishing effect can be improved.

[0133] The arc grid rack (520) is continuous with the arc grid body (510), surrounds the arc space (530), and may have any shape that can be coupled with the arc guide (400) and has a coupling projection (540) formed thereon. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc grid rack (520) is formed in a triangular plate shape in which its cross-sectional area increases as it moves toward the arc grid body (510), that is, from the lower side to the upper side.

[0134] A plurality of arc grid racks (520) may be provided. A plurality of arc grid racks (520) may be spaced apart from each other and each may be connected to the arc grid body (510) at different locations. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of arc grid racks (520) are provided and spaced apart in the width direction of the arc grid body (510), that is, in the left-right direction.

[0135] The Soho space (530) is a space formed inside the arc grid (500). The Soho space (530) can be defined by being partially enclosed by other components of the arc grid (500), namely the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520).

[0136] In the illustrated embodiment, the arc space (530) is surrounded by the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520) on each side in the height and width directions, namely the upper side, the left side, and the right side. At this time, the arc grid rack (520) is coupled with the arc guide (400), so the arc space (530) can be said to be surrounded by the arc guide (400) as well.

[0137] A fixed contact (not shown) and a movable contact (not shown) may be located in the arc space (530). At this time, the movable contact (not shown) may be movably located in the arc space (530). That is, the arc space (530) may be defined as a space where an arc is generated with the movable contact (not shown) separated.

[0138] The arc space (530) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the arc grid body (510) or the arc grid rack (520). In the illustrated embodiment, the arc space (530) is formed as a triangular plate-shaped space in which the cross-sectional area decreases as it moves toward the arc grid body (510), that is, from the lower side to the upper side.

[0139] Cutting gas provided by the arc guide (400) or the insulating material layer (600) can be introduced into the arc extinguishing space (530). As described above, the introduced cutting gas can cool the arc generated in the arc extinguishing space (530). Additionally, the pressure in the arc extinguishing space (530) is increased by the introduced cutting gas, so that the generated arc can pass through a plurality of arc grids (500) and be guided and extinguished in the arc extinguishing frame (100).

[0140] The connecting projection (540) is the part where the arc grid (500) is connected to the arc extinguishing side plate (200). The connecting projection (540) is formed to protrude outward from the outer end in the width direction of the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520). The connecting projection (540) is connected to a plurality of through holes formed in the first arc extinguishing side plate (210) and the second arc extinguishing side plate (220), respectively.

[0141] A connecting projection (540) may be formed at each end of the outer side in the width direction of the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520). In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting projection (540) is formed at the left end and the right end of the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520), respectively.

[0142] Multiple connecting protrusions (540) may be formed. Multiple connecting protrusions (540) may be spaced apart along the height direction of the arc grid body (510) and the arc grid rack (520). In the illustrated embodiment, three connecting protrusions (540) are formed on the left and three on the right. The three connecting protrusions (540) located on the left are spaced apart in the vertical direction, and the three connecting protrusions (540) located on the right are also spaced apart in the vertical direction.

[0143] The number and arrangement method of the connecting protrusions (540) can be changed to correspond to the number and arrangement method of the through holes formed in the arc extinguishing side plate (200).

[0144] The arc grid groove (550) is a space where an arc generated in the arc space (530) moves to be extinguished. The arc grid groove (550) is defined as a groove formed in the arc grid body (510). The arc grid groove (550) is at least partially surrounded by the arc grid inner circumference (560).

[0145] One side of the arc grid groove (550) in the height direction, the lower side in the illustrated embodiment, is formed open and communicates with the arc space (530). The other side of the arc grid groove (550) in the height direction, the upper side in the illustrated embodiment, is enclosed and closed by the arc grid inner circumference (560).

[0146] Additionally, each side in the width direction of the arc grid groove (550), the left and right sides in the illustrated embodiment, are surrounded by the arc grid inner circumference (560).

[0147] The arc grid groove (550) may be of any shape that is in communication with the arc space (530) and can provide a space for the arc to extend. In the illustrated embodiment, the arc grid groove (550) is formed to have a rounded curved end that is convex in the direction opposite to the arc space (530), i.e., upward.

[0148] In other words, the arc grid groove (550) is formed to have a cross-section in the shape of a “U” turned upside down.

[0149] The insulating material layer (600) to be described later can be applied to the arc grid (500) in various forms based on the arc grid groove (550). For example, the insulating material layer (600) can be applied to the portion between the lower end of the arc grid rack (520) and the upper end in the height direction of the arc grid groove (550).

[0150] In another embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) may be applied to the portion between the lower end of the arc grid rack (520) and the lower end in the height direction of the arc grid groove (550) (i.e., the portion communicating with the arc space (530)).

[0151] The arc grid inner circumference (560) partially surrounds the arc grid groove (550). The arc grid inner circumference (560) is continuous with the inner circumference of the arc grid rack (520). A protrusion (not given a reference number) may be formed in the portion where the arc grid inner circumference (560) is continuous with the inner circumference of the arc grid rack (520). The arc grid inner circumference (560) may have a shape corresponding to the shape of the arc grid groove (550).

[0152] The arc grid inner circumference (560) can be extended in the vertical direction in the height direction of the arc grid rack (520), as illustrated in the embodiment.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, one end of the arc grid inner circumference (560) in the height direction is formed to have a rounded curved end that is convex toward the upper side. Accordingly, the arc grid inner circumference (560) has a cross-section in the shape of a “U” turned upside down.

[0154] The other end in the height direction of the arc grid inner circumference (560), in the illustrated embodiment, the lower end is continuous with the upper inner circumference of the arc grid rack (520).

[0155] The insulating material layer (600) to be described later can be formed based on each end in the height direction of the arc grid inner circumference (560).

[0156] Specifically, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed in the portion between the upper end of the arc grid inner circumference (560) and the lower end of the arc grid rack (520). In the above embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) may be defined as being formed to have a first height (h1).

[0157] That is, the first height (h1) can be defined as the distance between the upper end of the arc grid inner circumference (560) and the lower end of the arc grid rack (520).

[0158] Additionally, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed in the portion between the lower end of the arc grid inner circumference (560) (i.e., the portion where the protrusion (not given a reference numeral) is formed) and the lower end of the arc grid rack (520). In the embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) may be defined as being formed to have a second height (h2).

[0159] That is, the second height (h2) can be defined as the distance between the lower end of the arc grid inner circumference (560) and the lower end of the arc grid rack (520).

[0160] An insulating material layer (600) is formed directly on the arc grid (500) and reacts with the arc to provide cutting gas. The pressure in the arc extinguishing space (530) can be increased by the cutting gas provided by the insulating material layer (600), and the arc can be cooled. Consequently, the insulating material layer (600) effectively performs the role of rapidly extinguishing the generated arc.

[0161] An insulating material layer (600) is formed on the surface of the arc grid (500). The portion of the arc grid (500) where the insulating material layer (600) is formed may be surrounded by the insulating material layer (600) and not exposed to the outside.

[0162] An insulating material layer (600) may be formed at least partially on the arc grid (500). In the illustrated embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) is formed to surround the outer surface of the arc grid rack (520). In the above embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) is formed in the portion of the arc grid (500) closest to the generated arc so as to effectively provide cutting gas.

[0163] The insulating material layer (600) may be composed of any material capable of reacting with an arc to generate cutting gas. For example, the insulating material layer (600) may be composed of fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), etc.

[0164] An insulating material layer (600) can be formed on the arc grid rack (520) in any shape. In one embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) can be formed by applying it to the surface of the arc grid rack (520). In another embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) can be formed on the surface of the arc grid rack (520) by a laser welding method.

[0165] In another embodiment, an insulating material layer (600) may be formed on the surface of an arc grid rack (520) by one or more methods of self-piercing riveting (SPR), friction stir welding (FSW), mechanical clinching, and hot press bonding.

[0166] Meanwhile, an insulating material layer (600) may be formed at least partially on the arc grid rack (520). At this time, the insulating material layer (600) must be formed on one side in the height direction of the arc grid rack (520), that is, on the lower part, but may be optionally formed on the upper part.

[0167] That is, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed to have a first height (h1). In the above embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed from the lower end of the arc grid rack (520) to the upper end of the arc grid groove (550) (or arc grid inner circumference (560)).

[0168] Additionally, in the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed to have a second height (h2). In the above embodiment, the insulating material layer (600) may be formed from the lower end of the arc grid rack (520) to the lower end of the arc grid groove (550) (or arc grid inner circumference (560)).

[0169] In any case, it is sufficient if the insulating material layer (600) protects the arc grid (500) and can provide cutting gas through arc reaction.

[0170]

[0171] Referring to FIGS. 11 and 12, an example is shown of the combined state of the arc runner (300), arc guide (400), arc grid (500), and insulating material layer (600) of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) according to an embodiment of the present invention. For ease of understanding, the illustration of the arc extinguishing frame (100) and the arc extinguishing side plate (200) has been omitted.

[0172] An insulating material layer (600) is formed in various forms on an arc grid rack (520) located on the lower side of the arc grid (500). The arc grid rack (520) is joined to an arc guide (400) with its surface surrounded by the insulating material layer (600). Accordingly, one part of the arc grid rack (520) is surrounded by the arc guide (400) and is not exposed to the outside, and another part of the arc grid rack (520) is surrounded by the insulating material layer (600) and is not exposed to the outside.

[0173] Accordingly, the part corresponding to the arc grid rack (520) may only have the arc guide (400) or insulating material layer (600) exposed to the arc extinguishing space (530), while the arc grid rack (520) itself may not be exposed to the arc extinguishing space (530).

[0174] Accordingly, when an arc is generated in the arc extinguishing space (530), the arc guide (400) or the insulating material layer (600) can react with the arc to provide cutting gas to the arc extinguishing space (530). Accordingly, the pressure in the arc extinguishing space (530) increases, thereby increasing the induction speed of the arc, and the arc can be cooled by the cutting gas. Accordingly, the arc extinguishing effect of the arc can be improved.

[0175] Meanwhile, in an embodiment in which a plurality of arc grids (500) are provided, an insulating material layer (600) may be formed for each arc grid rack (520) provided in the plurality of arc grids (500). At the same time, each arc grid rack (520) provided in the plurality of arc grids (500) may be accommodated in an arc guide (400).

[0176] Accordingly, even when the generated arc extends toward the arc runner (300) along with the moving contact (not shown), sufficient cutting gas can be provided to each arc extinguishing space (530) of each arc grid (500). As a result, the generated arc can be rapidly cooled and extinguished.

[0177] Furthermore, the above-described effect can be achieved by forming an insulating material layer (600) on the surface of a part of the arc grid (500). Accordingly, since excessive structural changes are not required to provide or form the insulating material layer (600), the manufacturing process of the arc extinguishing mechanism (10) can be simplified and the manufacturing cost can also be reduced.

[0178] In addition, as an insulating material layer (600) is formed on the arc grid rack (520), the generated arc is not extended toward the arc grid rack (520). That is, the generated arc can be extended toward the arc grid body (510) rather than the arc grid rack (520), thereby further enhancing the induction and cooling effects of the arc.

[0179] Meanwhile, the arc grid rack (520) can be combined with the arc guide (400) while having an insulating material layer (600) formed thereon. Therefore, compared to the case where only the arc grid rack (520) is combined with the arc guide (400), the combined state of the arc grid (500) and the arc guide (400) can be maintained stably.

[0180] As described above, as an insulating material layer (600) is formed on the arc grid rack (520), the generated arc is not extended to the arc grid rack (520). Accordingly, damage to the arc grid (500) and the arc guide (400) can also be prevented.

[0181]

[0182] Although embodiments of the present invention have been described, the spirit of the present invention is not limited to the embodiments presented in this specification. Those skilled in the art who understand the spirit of the present invention may easily propose other embodiments within the scope of the same spirit by adding, changing, deleting, or adding components, and such embodiments shall also be considered to fall within the scope of the spirit of the present invention.

[0183] 10: Arc Soho Mechanism 100: Arc Soho Frame

[0184] 200: Arc Soh side plate 210: 1st Arc Soh side plate

[0185] 220: 2nd Arc Soho Side Plate 300: Arc Runner

[0186] 400: Arc Guide 410: The First Arc Guide

[0187] 420: The Second Arc Guide 500: Arc Grid

[0188] 501: 1st Arc Grid 502: 2nd Arc Grid

[0189] 510: Arc Grid Body 520: Arc Grid Leg

[0190] 530: Soho space 540: Connecting protrusion

[0191] 550: Arc Grid Home 560: Arc Grid Inner House

[0192] 600: Insulating material layer h1: First height

[0193] h2: Second height

Claims

1. A plurality of arc grids formed in a plate shape and spaced apart along the thickness direction; A pair of arc extinguishing side plates each coupled to each side in the width direction of a plurality of the above-mentioned arc grids; and It includes an insulating material layer formed on the surface of the arc grid and configured to react with the generated arc to provide cutting gas, and The above arc grid is, An arc grid body formed in a plate shape and having a length in a first direction and a height in a second direction; and A arc grid rack comprising an arc grid that is continuous with one end of the arc grid body in the second direction, extends in the second direction, and has the insulating material layer formed on its outer surface. Arc Soho device.

2. In Paragraph 1, The above-mentioned arc grid racks are provided as a pair and are spaced apart along the first direction, and The above insulating material layer is formed on each surface of a pair of the arc grid racks, Arc Soho device.

3. In Paragraph 2, The above arc grid is, The above-mentioned arc grid body, defined by being surrounded by a pair of the above-mentioned arc grid racks, and including an arc extinguishing space where a fixed contact and a movable contact are located, Arc Soho device.

4. In Paragraph 3, The above insulating material layer, Each formed in the portion of the surface of the pair of the arc grid racks that surrounds the arc space from the outside, Arc Soho device.

5. In Paragraph 1, The above insulating material layer, Formed by including one or more materials selected from fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Arc Soho device.

6. In Paragraph 1, The above insulating material layer is formed by applying it to the surface of the arc grid rack, Arc Soho device.

7. In Paragraph 1, The above insulating material layer, Formed by one or more of the following methods: laser welding, SPR (Self Piercing Riveting), Friction Stir Welding (FSW), mechanical clinching, and hot press bonding, Arc Soho device.

8. In Paragraph 1, A plurality of arc guides each coupled to a pair of arc extinguishing side plates and a plurality of arc grids, and configured to react with the arc to provide the cutting gas, comprising Arc Soho device.

9. In Paragraph 8, The above arc guide is, At least partially accommodating the above-mentioned arc grid rack and coupled with the above-mentioned arc grid, Arc Soho device.

10. In Paragraph 8, The above-mentioned arc grid racks are provided as a pair and spaced apart along the first direction, and The above arc guide is, A first arc guide coupled to any one of the above-mentioned arc grid racks and any one of the above-mentioned arc extinguishing side plates; and A second arc guide coupled to another arc grid rack and another arc extinguishing side plate, Arc Soho device.

11. In Paragraph 8, The above arc guide is, Formed by including one or more materials selected from fluoropolymer compounds, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyamide compounds (Nylon, Polyamide, PA), polyoxymethylene (POM), ceramic, melamine resin, unsaturated polyester, and polybutylene terephthalate (PBT). Arc Soho device.

12. In Paragraph 1, The above arc grid is, An arc extinguishing space defined by being surrounded by the arc grid body and the arc grid rack, and in which a fixed contact and a movable contact are located; and One end of the second direction is surrounded by the arc grid body, and the other end of the second direction includes an arc grid groove that communicates with the arc extinguishing space. Arc Soho device.

13. In Paragraph 12, The above insulating material layer, Among the parts of the arc grid rack, formed between the part where one end of the arc grid rack in the second direction and the one end of the arc grid groove in the second direction are located, Arc Soho device.

14. In Paragraph 12, The above insulating material layer, A portion of the arc grid rack, formed between the portion where one end of the arc grid rack in the second direction and the other end of the arc grid groove in the second direction are located. Arc Soho device.

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