Switch actuator satisfying strength of actuator test

Abstract

Switch actuator satisfying strength of actuator test A semi-independent or independent electrical switching system comprising a switch (1000), a coupling mechanism (200), and an actuator (100) coupled to the switch is provided. The switch has one or more fixed electrical contacts (1040) and one or more corresponding moving electrical contacts (1030), the one or more moving electrical contacts being movable with respect to the one or more fixed electrical contacts in an unwelded state and at least one of the one or more moving electrical contacts being welded to at least one of the one or more fixed electrical contacts in a welded state. The actuator is configured to transition the switch between a first state and a second state of the switch when the switch is in the unwelded state. The actuator comprises a body portion (130), wherein the body portion is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator; a coupler (120), wherein the coupler is rigidly coupled to the switch via the coupling mechanism (200); and a handle (110), wherein the handle is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and wherein the handle and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

Description

Switch actuator satisfying strength of actuator testField

[0001] The present invention relates to a switch actuator for connecting and disconnecting an electrical circuit. In particular, the invention relates to an actuator for use with a semi-independent or independent manual switch.Background

[0002] A semi-independent (manual) switch is a switch for opening and closing an electrical circuit of an electrical system where at least part of the movement of the switching components, whether in closing or opening the electrical circuit, occurs independent of user input. Such a mechanism is called an independent switching mechanism.

[0003] An independent (manual) switch is a switch in which all the movements of the switching components, both in closing and opening the electrical circuit, occur independent of user input. That is, for an independent switch the closing and opening of the electrical circuit both occur using an independent switching mechanism.

[0004] An independent switching mechanism is particularly advantageous in opening (or breaking) an electrical circuit, because it can allow the breaking of the circuit to occur more rapidly than with a dependent mechanism, thereby increasing the safety of the electrical system. Such features are particularly advantageous in high current applications, where rapid opening of a conduction path can be necessary to reduce or minimise arcing within the switch.

[0005] A switch actuator, or simply actuator, is a device that is used to operate the switch. In general, an actuator provides an indication to the user of the state of the switch. This can be particularly important in situations in which the state of the switch cannot be directly verified by the user; for example, by viewing directly the state of the switching components. For example, the actuator may indicate that the switch is in an "open" state by indicating an "OFF" position. Similarly, the actuator may indicate that the switch is in a "closed" state by indicating an "ON" position.

[0006] Some actuators are provided with means for locking the actuator so that the actuator cannot be operated on to change the state of the switch. For example, means may be provided by way of an alignment of openings within the various components of the actuator so that a padlock may be inserted and locked, thereby locking the actuator in a prespecified position or state.

[0007] In some such actuators, the openings may only align when the actuator is in the OFF position, i.e. when the switch is in the open state. In some actuators, multiple aligned openings are provided when the actuator is in the OFF position. This allows for a multiple number of padlocks to be inserted and locked, thereby providing extra security to prevent the actuation of the switch from the open state to the closed state.

[0008] An actuator may either provide for a direct actuation of the switch or for actuation via a coupling mechanism. Such a coupling mechanism may include a shaft, e.g. when the switch is located within a panel or enclosure. This application concerns an actuator that is coupled to the switch via a coupling mechanism, which may include a shaft.

[0009] For safety reasons, it is important that the actuator indicates the state of the switch accurately. An inaccurate indication of the state of the switch may be called a false indication. It is particularly important that the actuator does not indicate that the switch is in the open state (in which there is no current through the electrical system) when the switch is in fact in the closed state.

[0010] One example situation in which the false indication may be given is one in which the switching components, in particular the electrical contacts, have welded together as a result of heat generated by the current flowing through the circuit. Such a situation, in which the switch is said to be in a "welded state", may occur in high current applications. More generally, the term "welded state" may be used for any situation in which at least some of the electrical contacts of the switch are fixed together, whether by welding, clamping, or any other means.

[0011] The welded state contrasts with the state of the switch during its normal use when the electrical contacts are configured to move relative to one another to open and close the switch. Such a state may be called an "unwelded state".

[0012] The strength of actuator ("SoA") test seeks to prevent the false indication that the switch is in the open state when the switch is in fact in a welded state (and therefore in the closed state). The IEC 60947-3 (2020, edition 4.0) standard requires that actuators for use with certain switches pass the SoA test.

[0013] The SoA test includes determining the force ("F") that is necessary to operate the actuator to open the switch. Once this force F has been determined the electrical contacts (or at least the ones that pose the most severe risk of causing the false indication to be given) are fixed together (e.g. by welding or clamping). Thereafter, a test force of 3F, i.e. three times the force necessary to operate the actuator to open the switch in the unwelded state, is applied to the actuator for a specified period of time in a direction to open the switch.

[0014] The actuator that is subjected to the 3F test force passes the SoA test if two conditions are satisfied.

[0015] The first condition is that after the test, when the test force is no longer applied to the actuator with the actuator being left free, the open state of the switch shall not be indicated by any of the means provided. For example, the actuator will not indicate an OFF position.

[0016] The second condition is that where the actuator is provided with a means of locking the actuator (for example, using a padlock) in the OFF position (in the unwelded state), it shall not be possible to lock the actuator while the test force is being applied.

[0017] In existing actuators satisfying the SoA test, the input torque provided to the actuator during the SoA test is directly and instantaneously transmitted to the switching mechanism of the switch. Such an arrangement may cause an excessive force to be exerted on the switching mechanism of the switch, thereby increasing the risk that a component of the switching mechanism breaks when the test force is applied to the actuator while the switch is in the welded state.

[0018] It is desirable to provide alternative actuators, which satisfy the SoA test in a robust and cost-effective manner, better protect against the breakage of components of the switching mechanism of the switch when the switch is in the welded state, and / or which are versatile and may be used with a wide range of switching mechanisms and / or switches.Summary

[0019] A semi-independent or independent electrical switching system, and a method for operating the semi-independent or independent electrical switching system are provided herein. The semi-independent or independent electrical switching system comprises a switch, a coupling mechanism, and an actuator coupled to the switch via the coupling mechanism.

[0020] In a first aspect of the present disclosure, a system is provided in the appended independent apparatus claim, with optional features defined in the dependent claims appended thereto. In a second aspect, a device is provided for use with a semi-independent or independent switch of an electrical system in the appended independent apparatus claim, with optional features defined in the dependent claim appended thereto.

[0021] The system of the first aspect is a semi-independent or independent electrical switching system. The semi-independent or independent electrical switching system comprises a switch, a coupling mechanism, and an actuator. Theswitch comprises one or more fixed electrical contacts and one or more corresponding moving electrical contacts. The one or more moving electrical contacts are movable with respect to the one or more fixed electrical contacts in an unwelded state and at least one of the one or more moving electrical contacts are welded (or otherwise fixed / attached) to at least one of the one or more fixed electrical contacts in a welded state. The actuator is coupled to the switch and the actuator is configured to transition the switch between a first state and a second state of the switch when the switch is in the unwelded state. The actuator comprises a body portion, a coupler, and a handle. The body portion is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator. The coupler is rigidly coupled to the switch via the coupling mechanism. The handle is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and the handle and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0022] In this way, an electrical switching system is provided that allows a relative motion between the switch (to which the coupler is rigidly coupled) and the handle which is operated on by the user. The relative motion means that any force that is applied to the handle of the actuator is not directly transmitted onto the switch and its switching mechanism. Such a relative motion may be particularly advantageous when the switch is in the welded state. Moreover the provision of a relative motion between the handle and the coupler may allow the actuator to satisfy the first and second conditions of the SoA test in a simple manner.

[0023] In some examples, the coupler and the handle may include features that are configured to abut against one another as the handle and the coupler move relative to each other.

[0024] Optionally, the actuator may be configured such that when the handle is in the second position and the switch is in the unwelded state: the coupler is in a third position. Moreover, the actuator may be configured such that when the handle is in the second position and the switch is in the welded state: the coupler is in a fourth position, wherein the third position is not the same as the fourth position.

[0025] In this way, the coupler of the actuator may be configured to be in a different position when in handle is in the second position when the switch is in the welded state as compared to when the switch is in the unwelded state. This difference in position, or misalignment between the handle and the coupler when the switch is in the welded state, may allow the actuator to satisfy the first and second conditions of the SoA test in a simple manner.

[0026] In some examples, the handle and the coupler may be configured to move with respect to each other during a first stage of motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position. In some examples, the handle and the coupler may be configured to co-rotate in a second stage of motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position. In some examples, the first stage of motion may be configured to occur before the second stage of motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position. For example, the first state of motion may be configured to correspond to the rotation of the handle from the first position towards the second position by some prescribed first angle. The second stage of motion may then be configured to start directly after the handle has reached the prescribed first angle and continue until the handle rotates a further prescribed second angle towards the second position.

[0027] The provision of the first stage of motion in which the handle moves with respect to the coupler as the handle rotates from the first position towards the second position means that during this stage of the motion any force that is applied to the handle by the user is not fully and directly transmitted to the coupler and therefrom to the switch. This relative motion may prevent excessive force from being exerted on the switching mechanism of the switch, thereby increasing the reliability and durability of the switching system as compared with existing actuators.

[0028] In some examples, the handle and the coupler are configured such that, in the unwelded state, the coupler rotates ahead of the handle in a first rotational direction due to a first force exerted on the coupler by the coupling mechanism in a third stage of the motion. In some examples, the first force exerted on the coupler by the coupling mechanism is due to an independent switching mechanism being activated within the switch. In such examples, the first force is exerted on the coupling mechanism by the switch, and the first force is then transmitted onto the coupler by the coupling mechanism.

[0029] In this way, a further relative motion may be provided between the handle and the coupler, at least in the unwelded state. The further relative motion between the handle and the coupler may allow the actuator to provide an accurate indication of the state of the switch in a context in which the switch is a semiindependent or independent switch.

[0030] In some examples, the first force exerted by the coupling mechanism on the coupler may occur when the switch opens beyond a toggle point in the unwelded state. In some such examples the independent switching mechanism of the switch incorporates a cam mechanism. In some such examples, the third stageof motion may be configured to occur after the second stage of motion. Thus, the second stage of motion may be configured to move the switching mechanism to the toggle point. In such examples, the third stage of motion, which is configured to occur directly after the second stage of motion, corresponds to the independent motion of the switching mechanism from the toggle point to a second toggle point.

[0031] In some examples, the coupling mechanism does not cause the coupler to move ahead of the handle in the first rotational direction in the welded state.

[0032] In some examples, the first rotational direction corresponds to the direction of motion of the handle from the first position towards the second position.

[0033] In some examples, the first state of the switch corresponds to the closed state of the switch. In some examples, the second state corresponds to the open state of the switch.

[0034] In some examples, the first position of the handle corresponds to the ON position of the actuator. In some examples, the second position of the handle corresponds to the OFF position of the actuator when the switch is in the unwelded state. Note that the first position and the second position correspond to configurations of the handle, while the ON position and the OFF position correspond to configurations of the actuator, including the handle and the coupler.

[0035] Optionally, the actuator may comprise a resilient member. The resilient member may be a spring. In some examples, the resilient member is a torsion spring, while in other examples the resilient member is a compression spring.

[0036] The resilient member may be configured to load and unload as the handle and the coupler move with respect to each other during the at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0037] The provision of the resilient member may further allow the actuator to satisfy the first and second conditions of the SoA test in a simple and reliable manner.

[0038] In some examples, the actuator is configured such that, in the unwelded state, the resilient member is unloaded when the handle is in the second position. In some examples, in the welded state, the actuator may be configured such that the resilient member is loaded when the handle is in the second position.

[0039] In examples where the second position of the handle corresponds to the position of the handle when the actuator is in the OFF position, the force of the loaded resilient member when the handle is in the second position in the welded state may be used to ensure that the handle cannot remain in the second positionin the welded state, thereby further helping to indicate a problem when the switch is in the welded state.

[0040] In particular, in some examples, when the switch is in the welded state and the handle is in the second position, a second force is exerted on the handle by the resilient member in a second rotational direction. Optionally, the second rotational direction is the opposite of the first rotational direction. Optionally, the second rotational direction corresponds to the direction of motion of the handle from the second position towards the first position.

[0041] In examples in which the handle and the coupler are configured such that, in the unwelded state, the coupler rotates ahead of the handle in a first rotational direction due to a first force exerted on the coupler by the coupling mechanism in a third stage of the motion and the actuator comprises a resilient member, the actuator may be configured such that: in the unwelded state, application of a first torque to the handle causes rotation of the handle from the first position to the second position. The motion of the handle from the first position to the second position may be such that the resilient member is loaded during the first stage, the resilient member remains loaded in the second stage, and the resilient member is unloaded during the third stage.

[0042] In some examples, the actuator may be configured such that, when the switch is in the welded state, application of a second torque to the handle causes rotation of the handle from the first position to the second position. The motion of the handle from the first position to the second position may include: the first stage in which the handle rotates with respect to the coupler and the resilient member is loaded, and the second stage in which the handle and the coupler co-rotate, and wherein the coupler does not rotate ahead of the handle at any stage, and wherein release of the predetermined second torque from the handle causes partial rotation of the handle toward the first position and away from the second position due to unloading of the resilient member.

[0043] In some examples, the handle may be configured to abut against a member of the body portion in the second position to prevent the handle from rotating further away from the first position. Additionally or alternatively, in some examples, the handle may be configured to abut against a member of the body portion in the first position to prevent the handle from rotating further away from the second position.

[0044] In this way, when the handle reaches the first position and / or second position, any further force exerted on the handle will be transmitted to the body portion rather than the coupling mechanism and / or the switch. The absorption ofsuch compressive forces by the body portion may help protect the coupling mechanism and / or switch from damage or breakage.

[0045] In some examples, one or more openings are provided in each of the body portion, the coupler, and the handle. In such examples, the one or more openings in each of the body portion, the coupler, and the handle may be configured to align to provide one or more openings through the actuator in certain relative configurations. In some such examples, the one or more openings may be configured to align only when the handle and / or the coupler are in one or more prescribed positions in relation to the body portion. For example, when the switch is in the unwelded state, the one or more openings may be configured to align only when the handle is in the second position, i.e. when the actuator is in the OFF position. For example, when the switch is in the welded state, the one or more openings may be configured not to align when the handle is in the second position, and optionally, the one or more openings may be configured never to align when the switch is in the welded state.

[0046] Also disclosed herein is an actuator for use with a semi-independent or independent switch of an electrical system. The actuator comprises a body portion, a coupler, and a handle. The body portion is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator. The coupler is rigidly coupled to the switch via a coupling mechanism. The handle is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and the handle and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0047] In some examples, the handle and the actuator may be configured to corotate during a portion of the motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0048] In some examples, the coupler and the handle may each include one or more features that are configured to abut against one another as the handle and the coupler move relative to one another. In some such examples, the handle is configured to drive the coupler for at least a first portion of the motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position by applying an abutting force. The abutting force may be applied by the one or more features of the handle. Additionally or alternatively, in some such examples, in the unwelded state, the coupler is configured to drive the handle for at least a second portion of the motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position by applying an abutting force. The abutting force may be applied by the one or more features of the coupler 120.

[0049] The actuator of the second aspect may have any one of the optional features, or any combination thereof, described in respect of the actuator of the system of the first aspect.Brief description of the figures

[0050] Figures 1A and IB illustrate a perspective view of an example switch in closed and open states, respectively.

[0051] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an example actuator along with an example coupling mechanism to the switch.

[0052] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of an example actuator along with the example coupling mechanism to the switch.

[0053] Figures 4A-4D illustrate front views and cross-sectional views of an example actuator in ON and OFF positions.

[0054] Figures 5A-5D illustrate front views and cross-sectional views of an example actuator in different configurations when the switch is in the welded state.

[0055] Figures 6A and 6B illustrate cross-sectional views of an example actuator.

[0056] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the handle and coupler of an example actuator.Detailed description

[0057] Other advantages and effects of the present disclosure will become readily apparent to those skilled in the art as the following detailed description proceeds by way of illustrative and specific examples as depicted in the Figures.

[0058] The structures, proportions, sizes, etc. shown in the drawings attached hereto are for the purpose of understanding and reading the disclosure only and are not intended to limit the scope of the disclosure in any way. For ease of description, the drawings of the present disclosure accordingly simplify or omit components commonly used in the art, which do not affect the understanding of the present disclosure by those skilled in the art.

[0059] With reference to Figures 1A-B and 2, the present disclosure provides a semi-independent or independent electrical switching system comprising a switch 1000 (an example of which is illustrated in Figures 1A-B), a coupling mechanism (200), and an actuator 100 (an example of which is illustrated in Figure 2). The actuator 100 is coupled to the switch 1000. The switch 1000 has one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040 and one or more corresponding moving electrical contacts 1030, the one or more moving electrical contacts 1030 being movable with respectto the one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040 in an unwelded state and at least one of the one or more moving electrical contacts 1030 being welded to at least one of the one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040 in a welded state. The actuator 100 is configured to transition the switch 1000 between a first state 1100 and a second state 1150 of the switch 1000 when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state. The actuator 100 comprises a body portion 130, a coupler, and a handle 110. The body portion 130 is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator 100. The coupler is rigidly coupled to the switch 1000 via the coupling mechanism 200. The handle 110 is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and wherein the handle 110 and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle 110 as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0060] Further details of the example switch 1000 are described with reference to Figures 1A-B.

[0061] Figures 1A-B illustrate a perspective view of an example semiindependent switch 1000. Figure 1A illustrates the switch 1000 in a closed state 1100 in which the one or more moving electrical contacts 1030 are in contact with the one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040. In the closed state 1100, the electrical circuit is complete and current flows within the circuit. Figure IB illustrates the switch 1000 in an open state 1150 in which there is no contact between the one or more moving electrical contacts 1030 and the one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040. In the open state 1150, no current flows within the circuit.

[0062] In the example switch 1000 illustrated in Figures 1A-B, the switch 1000 transitions from the closed state 1100 to the open state 1150 using a cam mechanism 1020. To operate the switch 1000 to open the circuit, i.e. transition from the closed state 1100 to the open state 1150, the internal knob 1010 may be rotated in direction 1060 about axis 1050. The operation of the internal knob 1010 may be carried out directly by a user or alternatively may be affected by the coupling mechanism 200 that is coupled to the actuator 100.

[0063] When the internal knob 1010 is rotated in the direction 1060 by a third angle, e.g. 30 degrees, a first point within the cam mechanism 1020 is reached. At this point the cam mechanism 1020 takes over and the internal knob 1010 continues to rotate by a fourth angle, e.g. 60 degrees, until the second toggle point within the cam mechanism 1020 is reached. At this point the switch 1000 has transitioned into the open state 1150.

[0064] Thus, the transition of the switch 1000 from the closed state 1100 to the open state 1150 comprises two stages. A first stage in which an external force is required to rotate the internal knob 1010 in the direction 1060 around the axis 1050 and a second independent or autonomous stage in which the cam mechanism 1020 moves from the first toggle point to the second toggle point. In the second stage it is the cam mechanism 1020 that causes the internal knob 1010 to further rotate about the axis 1050 in the direction 1060.

[0065] Conversely, in order to transition the switch 1000 from the open state 1150 to the closed state 1100, the internal knob 1010 is operated on (whether directly by the user or via the coupling mechanism 200 to the actuator 100) to rotate the internal knob 1010 about the axis 1050 in the opposite direction to the direction 1060.

[0066] As with the transition from the closed state 1100 to the open state 1150, the transition from the open state 1150 to the closed state 1100 also comprises two stages: a first stage in which the internal knob 1010 is rotated by the fourth angle, e.g. 60 degrees, and a second stage in which the cam mechanism 1020 takes over and moves independently or autonomously from the first toggle point to a third toggle point. In so doing, the cam mechanisml020 causes the internal knob 1010 to further rotate by the third angle, e.g. 30 degrees.

[0067] The third angle and the fourth angle between the toggle points in the cam mechanism 1020 may be chosen such that a quick transition to the open state 1150 of the switch 1000 is enabled.

[0068] The mechanism described above with reference to Figures 1A-B correspond to the functioning of the switch 1000 when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state. The unwelded state may also be referred to as the "normal use" of the switch 1000. The unwelded state or normal use refer to the situation when the one or more fixed electrical contacts 1040 and the one or more moving electrical contracts 1030 of the switch 1000 are free to move relative to one another so that the switch 1000 can transition between the closed state 1100 and the open state 1150.

[0069] The unwelded state of the switch 1000 contrasts with the welded state of the switch 1000. In the welded state, at least one of the one or more of the moving electrical contacts 1030 is fixed (e.g. welded) onto at least one of the one or more of the fixed electrical contacts 1040 such that the switch 1000 remains in the closed state 1100.

[0070] The particular details of the example switch 1000 described with reference to Figures 1A-B are for illustrative purposes only. For example, the thirdangle may be any angle between 20 and 40 degrees and the fourth angle be any angle between 50 and 70 degrees.

[0071] Any switch 1000 which comprises an independent switching mechanism for at least part of the transition between the closed state 1100 and the open state 1150 may be used.

[0072] Further details of the example actuator 100 and the example coupling mechanism 200 are described with reference to Figures 2-3.

[0073] Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of the actuator 100 along with the coupling mechanism 200 to switch 1000 (not shown).

[0074] The actuator 100 includes the handle 110, the coupler (which is not visible in the perspective view) and the body portion 130. The handle 110 includes a knob 112, which provides a grip for the user to operate the handle 110. The handle 110 may be operated on by using the knob 112 to rotate the handle 110.

[0075] The components of the actuator 100, including the handle 110, the coupler, and the body portion 130 may be formed from a polymer, optionally a plastic. Polymers are cost-effective, abundant, durable, lightweight and safe materials to work with. They have design flexibility and economies of scale, and can be electrically insulating. Alternatively, the various components of the actuator 100 may be constructed from metal or any other material, depending on design requirements.

[0076] The components of the actuator 100 may be manufactured using an injection moulding process. The advantages of injection moulding include its compatibility with a wide range of materials, its efficiency, repeatability, reliability and importantly the fact that it allows for complex geometries with high tolerances. In other examples, the components of the actuator 100 may be manufactured using an additive manufacture process (such as 3D printing), compression moulding, vacuum casting, carving or any other suitable method.

[0077] The actuator 100 may be positioned on the door or cover 300 of an enclosure of the electrical circuit and the switch 1000.

[0078] The coupling mechanism 200 is configured to couple the actuator 100 to the switch 1000. The coupling mechanism 200 may include a shaft 210. The shaft 210 may be rigidly coupled to the internal knob 1010. In this way, the internal knob 1010 may be operated on in the manner described with reference to Figures 1A-B using the actuator 100.

[0079] In the example depicted in Figure 2, the handle 110 is provided with three openings 116A-C. Three corresponding openings are also provided in the coupler and the body portion 130. The openings within the handle 110, thecoupler, and the body portion 130 may be configured such that when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state (i.e. during the normal use of the electrical switching system), the various openings fully align when the actuator 100 is in the OFF position that corresponds with the open state 1150 of the switch 1000. The full alignment of the one or more openings within the handle 110, the coupler, and the body portion 130 in the OFF position (and optionally only in the OFF position) may allow one or more openings to form through the actuator 100 so that a padlock (or any other locking mechanism) may be inserted in any one of the one or more openings through the actuator 100 and locked in order to lock the actuator 100 in the predetermined configuration. The locked padlock may then not allow the handle 110 to be rotated without the padlock being unlocked and removed from the corresponding opening through the actuator 100.

[0080] The one or more openings within the handle 110, the coupler, and the body portion 130 that are configured to align in the manner described above may provide an additional safety feature for the use of the electrical system, including for example when maintenance is being carried out on the electrical system to which the actuator 100 is coupled. For example, once the actuator 100 is locked in the OFF position using the one or more padlocks, the switch 1000 cannot be turned on (i.e. transitioned into the closed state 1100) without unlocking the one or more padlocks.

[0081] Figure 3 illustrates an exploded perspective view of the actuator 100 of Figure 2 and the example coupling mechanism 200 to the switch 1000.

[0082] The exploded perspective view of the actuator 100 provides an example of how the various components of the actuator 100, namely the body portion 130, the coupler 120, and the handle 110, may be assembled and configured with respect to one another.

[0083] The actuator 100 comprises the body portion 130. The body portion 130 is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator 100. For example, the body portion 130 may be fixed onto the door or cover 300 of the enclosure of the electrical circuit and the switch 1000. The body portion 130 may comprise one or more openings 136A.

[0084] Additionally, or alternatively, the body portion 130 may comprise one of more features 132 against which one or more members of the coupler 120 and / or handle 110 may be configured to abut. For example, the feature 132 of the body portion 130 may be configured with respect to a feature (not shown) of the coupler 120 and / or a feature (not shown) of the handle 110 so that when the handle 110 is in the second position, the one or more features abut against one another toprevent the handle 110 from being rotated any further away from the first position. Additionally or alternatively, the feature 132 of the body portion 130 may be configured with respect to another feature (not shown) of the coupler 120 and / or another feature (not shown) of the handle 110 so that when the handle 110 is in the first position, the one or more features abut against one another to prevent the handle 110 from being rotated any further away from the second position. Such features help ensure that the actuator 100 may only be used as intended, with the handle 110 configured to only move between the first position and the second position. In such a manner, damage to the switch 1000, the coupling mechanism 200, and / or the actuator 100 may be prevented.

[0085] The coupler 120 may be positioned between the body portion 130 and the handle 110. The coupler 120 is rigidly coupled to the switch 1000 via the coupling mechanism 200. In particular, the coupler 120 may be rigidly coupled to the internal knob 1010 of the switch 1000. That is in the unwelded state, the coupler 120 and the coupling mechanism 200 may be configured such that for any rotation of the coupler 120, there is a corresponding rotation of the internal knob 1010 and vice versa.

[0086] The coupler 120 may comprise one or more openings 126A.

[0087] The coupler 120 (or more accurately, the actuator 100) may comprise a resilient member 125 which is configured to abut against a member of the handle 110. Equivalently, a resilient member 125 may be said to be arranged between the handle 110 and the coupler 120. In this manner, the resilient member 125 may be arranged such that the resilient member 125 loads as the handle 110 rotates relative to the coupler 120 in a first rotational direction 140 and unloads as the handle 110 rotates relative to the coupler 120 in a second rotational direction, which second direction may be opposite to the first direction. In some examples, the first rotational direction 140 corresponds to the direction of motion of the handle 110 from the first position to the second position and the second rotational direction corresponds to the direction of motion of the handle 110 from the second position to the first position.

[0088] In the example depicted in Figure 3, the resilient member 125 is a torsion spring. In other examples, the resilient member 125 may be a compression spring. The resilient member 125, such as a spring, is a cost-effective and widely available component that may ensure that production costs of the actuator 100 are kept relatively low compared to the production cost of a conventional actuator.

[0089] The handle 110 is the component of the actuator 100 that allows for the operation of the actuator 100 by the user, whether directly or indirectly. Thehandle 110 is configured to rotate between the first position, which may correspond to the actuator 100 being in the ON position, and the second position, which may correspond to the actuator 100 being in the OFF position in the unwelded state. The handle 110 may be rotated by the user using the knob 112. The handle 110 and the coupler 120 are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle 110 as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. The relative motion of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 may be facilitated by one or more features of the handle 110 and the coupler 120. Further details of such features are described below with reference to Figures 6A and 6B.

[0090] The handle 110 may comprise one or more openings 116A. The one or more openings 116A, 126A, 136A may be configured to align when the handle 110, the coupler 120, and the body portion 130 are in specific positions relative to one another. For example, the openings 116A, 126A, 136A may be configured to align only when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state and when the actuator 100 is in the OFF position.

[0091] Further features of the actuator 100 are described with reference to Figures 4A-D.

[0092] Figures 4A and 4B provide a front view and cross-sectional front view of the actuator 100 in ON position 400. In the front view illustrated in Figure 4A, only the handle 110 and parts of the body portion 130 are visible. The knob 112 of the handle 110 provides a grip for the user to operate the handle 110. The handle 110 may be operated on by using the knob 112 to rotate the handle 110. In the cross-sectional front view illustrated in Figure 4B, the coupler 120 and the resilient member 125 are also depicted.

[0093] The handle 110 may include a window 114. In normal use, i.e. when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state, when the handle 110 is in certain positions (for example, the first position and the second position, which may correspond to the actuator 100 being in the ON and OFF positions, respectively), the window 114 may align with a corresponding window in the coupler 120 so that the user may view a part of the body portion 130 on which an indication of the state of the actuator 100 and thereby the state of the switch 1000 may be given.

[0094] In Figures 4A and 4B, the actuator 100 is depicted as being in the ON position 400. The ON position 400 may correspond to the closed state 1100 of the switch 1000. In the configuration 400, the window 114 aligns with the corresponding window in the coupler 120 to reveal a label that is affixed onto therelevant part of the body portion 130 to indicate that the actuator 100 is in the ON position 400. In this example, the label is "1 ON".

[0095] In Figures 4C and 4D, the actuator 100 is depicted as being in the OFF position 450, which should only be possible in the unwelded state according to the SoA test. Thus in normal use, when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state, the OFF position 450 may correspond to the open state 1150 of the switch 1000. In the configuration 450, the window 114 aligns with the window in the coupler 120 to reveal a label that is affixed onto the relevant part of the body portion 130 to indicate that the actuator 100 is in the OFF position 450. In this example, the label is "0 OFF".

[0096] In the OFF position 450, one or more openings 116A-C of the handle 110 may be configured to align with one or more openings 126A-C of the coupler 120 and one or more openings 136A-C of the body portion 130 to provide one or more openings through the actuator 100. The one or more openings through the actuator 100 may allow one or more padlocks (or some other locking means) to be inserted and locked. In this way, the actuator 100 may be locked when it is in the OFF position 450.

[0097] In other examples, the labels may comprise numerals, such as "0" and "1", or words or one or more letters, such as "ON" and "OFF", or "SAFE" and "DANGER", or any other symbols and combinations of numerals, letters and / or symbols.

[0098] An example mechanism by which the actuator 100 may be configured to transition from configuration 400, usually denoted the ON position, to configuration 450, usually denoted the OFF position, is described with reference to Figures 4A-D.

[0099] In the example mechanism, starting from position 400, the handle 110 is configured to rotate from the first position to the second position. The handle 110 and the coupler 120 are configured to move with respect to each other during a first stage of motion as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. During the first stage of motion, the handle 110 may be configured to be rotated by the operation of the user acting on the knob 112. During the first stage of motion, the coupler 120 may be configured not to rotate with respect to the body portion 130.

[0100] The first stage of motion may be configured to correspond to the rotation of the handle 110 from the first position towards the second position by some prescribed first angle. The first angle may be 25 degrees. In other examples, the first angle may be any angle between 20 and 30 degrees. In yet further examples, the first angle may be some other angle.

[0101] The handle 110 and the coupler 120 may be configured to co-rotate in a second stage of motion as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. The second stage of motion may follow sequentially the first stage of motion. The second stage of motion may be configured then to start directly after the handle 110 has reached the prescribed first angle. The coupler 120 and the handle 110 may include features that are configured to abut against one another as the handle 110 and the coupler 120 move relative to each other. The second stage of motion may be configured to begin once the handle 110 rotates during the first stage of motion to a point between the first position and the second position (for example, the point may correspond to a rotation of the handle 110 by the first angle). At that point, a feature of the handle 110 may be configured to abut against a feature of the coupler 120. Therefore, during the second stage of motion, the features of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 may be configured such that the handle 110 is configured to rotate the coupler 120 by applying an abutting force via the feature of the handle 110. Further details of an example such mechanism are described below with reference to Figure 7.

[0102] The second stage of motion may be configured to correspond to a rotation of the handle 110 by a second angle towards the second position. The second angle may be 30 degrees. In other examples, the second angle may be any angle between 20 and 40 degrees. In yet further examples, the second angle may be some other angle.

[0103] The handle 110 and the coupler 120 may configured such that, in the unwelded state, the coupler 120 rotates ahead of the handle 110 in the first rotational direction 140 due to a first force exerted on the coupler 120 by the coupling mechanism 200 in a third stage of the motion. The first rotational direction 140 may correspond to the direction from the first position to the second position. In some examples, the first force exerted on the coupler 120 by the coupling mechanism 200 is due to an independent switching mechanism being activated within the switch 1000. In such examples, the first force is exerted on the coupling mechanism 200 by the switch 1000, and the first force is then transmitted on to the coupler 120 by the coupling mechanism 200.

[0104] The third stage of motion may follow sequentially the second stage of motion. In such examples, the third stage of motion may follow directly after the second stage of motion.

[0105] In the example mechanism described herein, the coupler 120 is configured to be rotated by the abutting force of the handle 110 during the second stage of motion. The rotation of the coupler 120 is then configured to cause acorresponding motion in the coupling mechanism 200 to which the coupler 120 is rigidly coupled. The movement of the coupling mechanism 200 is then configured to cause a movement on the switching mechanism of the switch 1000. After the coupler 120 has rotated by the second angle during the second stage of motion, the switching mechanism reaches the first toggle point within the cam mechanism 1020 of the switch 1000.

[0106] Thus, the second stage of motion may be configured to move the switching mechanism to the first toggle point. In such examples, the third stage of motion, which is configured to occur directly after the second stage of motion, corresponds to the independent motion of the switching mechanism from the toggle point to a second toggle point.

[0107] The independent motion of the switching mechanism is configured to cause a corresponding motion of the coupling mechanism 200 and therefrom, upon an application of the first force exerted on the coupler 120 by the coupling mechanism 200, a corresponding motion of the coupler 120. The first force may be in the first rotational direction. The motion of the coupler 120 may correspond to a rotation by a yet further angle.

[0108] Therefore, the first force exerted by the coupling mechanism 200 on the coupler 120 may occur when the switch 1000 opens beyond a toggle point in the unwelded state.

[0109] The coupler 120 may be configured to initially rotate relative to the handle 110 and the handle 110 may be configured to remain fixed relative to the body portion 130. However, after the coupler 120 has rotated by, for example, the first angle, the coupler 120 may then be configured to drive the handle 110 to the second position. At this point, the actuator 100 reaches the configuration 450 depicted in Figures 4C-D.[O11O] In configuration 450, which corresponds to a configuration of the actuator 100 when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state, the actuator 100 may be configured such that, when the handle 110 is in the second position, the coupler 120 is in a third position. In this configuration 450, a window 114 of the handle 110 aligns with the corresponding window in the coupler 120 to reveal the label that is affixed onto the relevant part of the body portion 130 to indicate that the actuator 100 is in the OFF position 450.[Olli] When the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state, the actuator 100 is configured to rotate from the second position to the first position, and in doing so drive the coupler 120 such that when the handle 110 reaches the first position theactuator 100 reaches configuration 400 and the switch 1000 transitions to the closed state 1100.

[0112] Optionally, the handle 110 may be configured to abut against a member 132 of the body portion 130 in the second position to prevent the handle 110 from rotating further away from the first position. Additionally or alternatively, the handle 110 may be configured to abut against a member of the body portion 130 in the first position to prevent the handle 110 from rotating further away from the second position.

[0113] In the example illustrated in Figures 4A-D, the actuator 100 comprises a resilient member 125. The resilient member 125 may be configured to load and unload as the handle 110 and the coupler 120 move with respect to each other during the at least a portion of motion of the handle 110 as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position.

[0114] For example, when the switch 1000 is in the unwelded state, the actuator 100 may be configured such that an application of a first torque to the handle 110 causes rotation of the handle 110 from the first position to the second position. In this motion from the first position to the second position, the resilient member 125 may load during the first stage of motion. The resilient member 125 may remain loaded in the second stage of motion. The resilient member 125 may unload during the third stage of motion.

[0115] In general, the actuator 100 may be configured such that in the unwelded state, when the handle 110 is in the second position, the resilient member 125 is unloaded.

[0116] In contrast to Figures 4C and 4D, which depicts the actuator 100 in the OFF position to indicate that the switch 1000 is in the open state 1150, Figures 5A-D depict example configurations of the actuator 100 when the switch 1000 is in the welded state.

[0117] Figures 5A and 5B illustrate an example configuration 500, in front view and cross-sectional front view respectively, in which the handle 110 is in the second position when the switch 1000 is in the welded state. Note that in the unwelded state the handle 110 being in the second position corresponds to the actuator 100 being in the OFF position 450. However, in configuration 500 the handle 110 and the coupler 120 are misaligned as compared with the OFF position 450 in the unwelded state. The misalignment of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 means that the window 114 does not align with the corresponding window in the coupler 120 to reveal the "OFF" label that is affixed onto the relevant part of the body portion 130. That is, in the welded state, when the handle 110 is in the secondposition, the coupler 120 may be configured to be in a fourth position, where the fourth position is not the same as the third position of the coupler 120 described above with reference to Figures 4C-D. The fourth position may be configured to be behind the third position along the first rotational direction.

[0118] An example mechanism by which the actuator 100 may be configured to reach configuration 500 from configuration 400 in the welded state is described with reference to Figures 4A-B and 5A-B.

[0119] As described above with reference to the transition from configuration 400 to configuration 450, handle 110 and the coupler 120 are configured to move with respect to each other during a first stage of motion as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. During the first stage of motion, the handle 110 may be configured to be rotated by the operation of the user acting on the knob 112. During the first stage of motion, the coupler 120 may be configured not to rotate with respect to the body portion 130.

[0120] The first state of motion may be configured to correspond to the rotation of the handle 110 from the first position towards the second position by some prescribed first angle. The first angle may be 25 degrees. More generally, the first angle may be any angle between 20 and 30 degrees.

[0121] The handle 110 and the coupler 120 may be configured to co-rotate in a second stage of motion as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. The second stage of motion may follow sequentially the first stage of motion. The second stage of motion may then be configured to start directly after the handle 110 has reached the prescribed first angle. The coupler 120 and the handle 110 may include features that are configured to abut against one another as the handle 110 and the coupler 120 move relative to each other. The second stage of motion may be configured to begin once the handle 110 rotates during the first stage of motion to a point between the first position and the second position (for example, the point may correspond to a rotation of the handle 110 by the first angle). At that point, a feature of the handle 110 may be configured to abut against a feature of the coupler 120. Therefore, during the second stage of motion, the features of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 may be configured such that the handle 110 is configured to rotate the coupler 120 by applying an abutting force via the feature of the handle 110.

[0122] However, in the welded state, the coupling mechanism 200 and the actuator 100 may be configured such that the coupler 120 does not rotate ahead of the handle 110 at any stage, including along the first rotational direction. The coupling mechanism does not cause the coupler to move ahead of the handle in thefirst rotational direction in the welded state. In particular, the welded electric contacts of the switch 1000 prevents the coupling mechanism 200 from acting on the coupler to cause the coupler to move ahead of the handle. This contrasts with the situation in the unwelded state, in which the coupling mechanism causes the coupler to move ahead of the handle in the first rotational direction. The handle 110 may be configured such that the handle 110 may only reach the second position in the configuration 500 by the continued application of a test force. The application of the test force may in turn continue to drive the coupler 120 via the application of an abutting force on the coupler 120 due to the rotation of the handle 110.

[0123] Such a continued application of the test force may transfer a force onto the coupling mechanism 200 to which the coupler 120 is rigidly coupled. In some examples, this may lead to a deformation of some components of the coupling mechanism 200, for example, the shaft 210.

[0124] The different mechanism by which the handle 110 reaches the second position in configuration 500 as compared with configuration 450 may be used to configure the actuator 100 such that the coupler 120 is in the third position in configuration 450 and the coupler 120 is in the fourth position in configuration 500 and the third position is not the same as the fourth position. The fourth position may be configured to be behind the third position along the first rotational direction.

[0125] When the actuator 100 is in the configuration 500, because of the misalignment of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 as compared with the configuration 450, an optional one or more openings 116A-C of the handle 110 do not align with one or more openings 126A-C of the coupler 120. Thus, the actuator 100 is configured such that no openings can be provided through the actuator 100 in configuration 500 through which a padlock or some other locking means can be inserted. In this way, the second condition of the SoA test may be satisfied in a context in which means are generally provided in configuration 450 for locking the actuator 100.

[0126] The configuration 500 may correspond to the configuration of the actuator 100 when no external force is being applied to the handle 110. In such a case, the first condition of the SoA test shall be satisfied. Alternatively, the configuration 500 may correspond to the configuration of the actuator 100 while the test force is being applied to the handle 110. The test force may correspond to the 3F test force applied to the handle 110 during the SoA test.

[0127] Where the configuration 500 corresponds to the configuration of the actuator 100 while the test force is being applied to the handle 110, the actuator 100 may be configured to transition into configuration 550, illustrated in Figures 5C and 5D, once the test force is disapplied. In particular, the handle 110 may be configured to move to a position between the first position and the second position once the test force is disapplied. In other words, the release of the predetermined torque or force from the handle 110 may cause partial rotation of the handle 110 toward the first position and away from the second position. In examples where the actuator 100 comprises a resilient member 125, the partial rotation of the handle 110 may be due to unloading of the resilient member 125. In this way, the first condition of the SoA test may be satisfied. In yet other examples, when the test force is disapplied, the handle 110 is configured to transition to the first position. In some such examples, when the test force is disapplied, the actuator 100 may be configured to transition into configuration 400.

[0128] The movement of the handle 110 away from the second position when the test force is disapplied may further ensure that the user is adequately informed that the switch 1000 is indeed not in the open state 1150. Moreover, the position of the handle 110 in configuration 550, for example between the first position and the second position may allow an indication to be given to the user that there may be a problem with the switch 1000. For example, it may help indicate to the user that the switch 1000 is in the welded state.

[0129] As explained above, the transition of the actuator 100 in the welded state from configuration 500 to configuration 550 may be facilitated by the presence of the resilient member 125. In such examples, the resilient member 125 is configured to load and unload as the handle 110 and the coupler 120 move with respect to each other during the at least a portion of motion of the handle 110 as the handle 110 rotates from the first position to the second position. When the switch 1000 is in the welded state and the handle 110 is in the second position, the resilient member 125 may be loaded. For example, when the switch 1000 is in the welded state and the handle 110 is in the second position, a second force may be exerted on the handle 110 by the resilient member 125 in a second rotational direction. The second rotational direction may be the opposite of the first rotational direction 140. The second rotational direction may correspond to the direction of motion of the handle 110 from the second position towards the first position.

[0130] In this manner, the features described with reference to Figures 5A-D may contribute to the safety features of actuator 100.

[0131] As explained with reference to Figure 3, the various components of the actuator 100 may be provided with features, which features are configured to abut against one another to prevent the handle 110 from being rotated past certain positions. For example, the handle 110 may be prevented from rotating past the second position away from the first position and / or the handle 110 may be prevented from rotating past the first position away from the second position.

[0132] Such features may help absorb any compressional forces that are applied to the handle 110 and potentially also the coupler 120 (and there onto the coupling mechanism 200) while the test force is being applied to the handle 110 in configuration 500.

[0133] Figures 6A and 6B provide cross-sectional views of the actuator 100. The coupler 120 may be arranged between the body portion 130 and the handle 110. Moreover, the coupler 120 is rigidly coupled to the switch 1000 via coupling mechanism 200. In the example depicted in Figures 6A and 6B, the coupler 120 is rigidly coupled to a coupling member 220 of the coupling mechanism 200. The body portion 130 is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator 100.

[0134] In the example illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B, the various components of the actuator 100, namely the body portion 130, the coupler 120, and the handle 110, comprise openings 136B, 126B, 116B, respectively. Moreover, the various components of the actuator 100 are configured with respect to one another in the example illustrated in Figures 6A and 6B such that the respective openings align to provide an opening through the actuator 100.

[0135] The handle 110 is pivotably coupled to the coupler 120 using a connecting member 118. The handle 110 may be connected to the connecting member 118 using a flange screw. The handle 110 may be fixed onto the actuator 100 so that it cannot move along axis 150 (e.g. be pulled off the actuator 100). However, the handle 110 may be unconstrained in a rotational direction about the axis 150 other than by constraints provided for by one or more features of the handle 110, coupler 120 and / or body portion 130 that abut against one another to constrain the motion of the handle 110 about the axis 150. In this example manner, the handle 110 and coupler 120 are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle 110; in particular as the handle 110 rotates from one position, e.g. the first position, to another position, e.g. the second position.

[0136] Figure 7 illustrates a perspective view of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 of the actuator 100.

[0137] With reference to Figure 7, the handle 110 and the coupler 120 are configured to facilitate relative motion and, optionally, co-rotation with respect to one another. Such relative motions may be facilitated using a feature 115 of the handle 110 and one or more features 122A-C of the coupler 120.

[0138] By way of an example, as the handle 110 is operated on by the user to rotate the handle 110 in the first rotational direction 140, the handle 110 may initially rotate relative to the coupler 120, which coupler 120 remains stationary. This may be because no feature of the handle 110 abuts against a feature on the coupler 120 to exert a force on the coupler 120 and thereby move the coupler 120. For example, the feature 115 may move freely along a gap 122C within the body of the coupler 120. However, after the handle 110 has rotated a certain angle, the feature 115 may be configured to abut against feature 122A of the coupler 120. At this point, any force exerted by the user in rotating the handle 110 is configured to transfer into a force on to the coupler 120 via the abutment of feature 115 of the handle 110 onto feature 122A of the coupler 120.

[0139] Conversely, where the coupler 120 is caused to rotate because of the action of the coupling mechanism 200, the handle 110 is configured to move depending on the position of feature 115 in relation to the features 122A and 122B. If the feature 122A or 122B is not abutting against feature 115 and exerting a force on the handle 110 via the feature 115 then the handle 110 will not be caused to rotate along with the coupler 120. However, if the feature 122A or 122B is abutting against feature 115 and exerting a force on the handle 110 via the feature 115, then the handle 110 will be caused to rotate along with the coupler 120.

[0140] The angle provided by the gap 122C within the coupler 120 may be an angle between 15 to 35 degrees. In some examples, the angle is between 20 to 30 degrees, and preferably 25 degrees.

[0141] The example described with reference to features 115, and features 122A-C are for illustrative purposes only. Other equivalent mechanisms are possible as well as a plurality of such features, e.g. 122D-E. The plurality of features may increase the reliability of the mechanism by apportioning the total force exerted on any individual feature. The plurality of features may increase the versatility of the mechanism by allowing various relative motions to be configured between the handle 110 and the coupler 120.

[0142] In some examples, resilient member 125 may be arranged between the handle 110 and the coupler 120 to further affect the motion of the handle 110 and the coupler 120 with respect to one another. In the example depicted in Figure 7,the resilient member 125 is a compression spring. In other examples, such as that depicted in Figure 3, the resilient member 125 may be a torsion spring.

[0143] It should be realised that the foregoing embodiments are not to be construed as limiting and that other variations, modifications and equivalents will be evident to those skilled in the art and are intended to be encompassed by the claims unless expressly excluded by the claim language.

[0144] Moreover, the disclosure of the present application should be understood to include any novel features or any novel combination of features either explicitly or implicitly disclosed herein or in any generalisation thereof. Claims may be formulated to cover any such features and / or combination of such features derived therefrom.

Claims

- 26 -Claims1. A semi-independent or independent electrical switching system comprising:a switch (1000) having one or more fixed electrical contacts (1040) and one or more corresponding moving electrical contacts (1030), the one or more moving electrical contacts being movable with respect to the one or more fixed electrical contacts in an unwelded state and at least one of the one or more moving electrical contacts being welded to at least one of the one or more fixed electrical contacts in a welded state;a coupling mechanism (200); andan actuator (100) coupled to the switch, wherein the actuator is configured to transition the switch between a first state (1100) and a second state (1150) of the switch when the switch is in the unwelded state, the actuator comprising:a body portion (130), wherein the body portion is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator;a coupler (120), wherein the coupler is rigidly coupled to the switch via the coupling mechanism (200); anda handle (110), wherein the handle is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and wherein the handle and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

2. The electrical switching system of claim 1, wherein the actuator is configured such that, when the handle is in the second position and the switch is in the unwelded state: the coupler is in a third position, and when the handle is in the second position and the switch is in the welded state: the coupler is in a fourth position, wherein the third position is not the same as the fourth position.

3. The electrical switching system of claim 1 or 2, wherein the handle and the coupler are configured to move with respect to each other during a first stage of motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position, and the handle and the coupler are configured to co-rotate in a second stage of motion as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

4. The electrical switching system of claim 3, wherein the handle and the coupler are configured such that, in the unwelded state, the coupler rotates aheadof the handle in a first rotational direction due to a first force exerted on the coupler by the coupling mechanism in a third stage of the motion.

5. The electrical switching system of claim 4, wherein the first force exerted by the coupling mechanism on the coupler occurs when the switch opens beyond a toggle point in the unwelded state.

6. The electrical switching system of claim 4 or 5, wherein the first rotational direction corresponds to the direction of motion of the handle from the first position towards the second position.

7. The electrical switching system of any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the coupling mechanism does not cause the coupler to move ahead of the handle in the first rotational direction in the welded state.

8. The electrical switching system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the actuator comprises a resilient member (125), and wherein the resilient member is configured to load and unload as the handle and the coupler move with respect to each other during the at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

9. The electrical switching system of claim 8, wherein the actuator is configured such that, in the unwelded state, the resilient member is unloaded when the handle is in the second position, and, in the welded state, the resilient member is loaded when the handle is in the second position.

10. The electrical switching system of any one of claims 8 to 9, wherein when the switch is in the welded state and the handle is in the second position, a second force is exerted on the handle by the resilient member in a second rotational direction.

11. The electrical switching system of any one of claims 4 to 7, wherein the actuator comprises a resilient member, and wherein the actuator is configured such that:in the unwelded state, application of a first torque to the handle causes rotation of the handle from the first position to the second position, wherein the resilientmember is loaded during the first stage, the resilient member remains loaded in the second stage, and the resilient member is unloaded during the third stage.

12. The electrical switching system of claim 11, wherein the actuator is configured such that, when the switch is in the welded state, application of a second torque to the handle causes rotation of the handle from the first position to the second position comprising: the first stage in which the handle rotates with respect to the coupler and the resilient member is loaded, and the second stage in which the handle and the coupler co-rotate, and wherein the coupler does not rotate ahead of the handle at any stage, and wherein release of the predetermined second torque from the handle causes partial rotation of the handle toward the first position and away from the second position due to unloading of the resilient member.

13. The electrical switching system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle is configured to abut against a member of the body portion (132) in the second position to prevent the handle from rotating further away from the first position, and / or wherein the handle is configured to abut against a member of the body portion in the first position to prevent the handle from rotating further away from the second position.

14. An actuator (100) for use with a semi-independent or independent switch (1000) of an electrical system, the actuator comprising:a body portion (130), wherein the body portion is configured to remain fixed during the operation of the actuator;a coupler (120), wherein the coupler is configured to be rigidly coupled to the switch via a coupling mechanism (200);a handle (110), wherein the handle is configured to rotate between a first position and a second position, and wherein the handle and the coupler are configured to move relative to each other during at least a portion of motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

15. The actuator of claim 14, wherein the handle and the actuator are configured to co-rotate during a portion of the motion of the handle as the handle rotates from the first position to the second position.

Images