Arc Shutter Switch Layout for Compact Arc Extinguishing
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Solution Overview
Problem
Electric switches with lower rated currents face space constraints due to the structures required for supporting and guiding shutter elements, making them less efficient in terms of space utilization.
Innovation Solution
The design incorporates a first arc shutter that moves outward parallel to the longitudinal direction of the movable contact, eliminating the need for an articulated joint on the roller and allowing for the omission of extinguishing plates, with an actuation system that requires minimal space within the frame.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional shutter elements with articulated joints on rollers are used, then arc extinguishing capability is achieved, but space utilization inside the frame deteriorates due to the size of supporting and guiding structures
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter element is divided into multiple segments that can move independently relative to each other. This segmentation allows the shutter to achieve effective arc extinguishing through coordinated movement of segments while reducing the size of supporting structures, as each segment requires less complex guidance than a monolithic shutter.
Solution Approach 2:
The shutter element is designed to move not only radially outward but also in the longitudinal direction parallel to the movable contact. This multi-dimensional movement pattern enables the shutter to clear the arc path more effectively while using a more compact guiding mechanism that leverages the longitudinal space already present in the switch frame.
2Ease of operation
If articulated joints on rollers are implemented, then shutter guidance is achieved, but device complexity increases due to additional supporting structures
Solution Approach 1:
The complex articulated joint mechanism on the roller is extracted and replaced with a simpler guiding system. The shutter element is guided directly by guide surfaces or simple rails formed on the frame, eliminating the need for articulated joints and reducing device complexity while maintaining adequate shutter guidance throughout the opening and closing cycles.
3Reliability
If conventional shutter design is used, then arc control is achieved, but assembly complexity increases due to multiple components
Solution Approach 1:
The shutter element is integrated with the movable contact assembly such that the shutter forms part of the same structural unit. This merging of components reduces the total number of parts that need to be assembled, as the shutter can be attached to or formed as part of the movable contact support structure, thereby simplifying assembly while maintaining arc control functionality.
Data Source
AI summary
An electric switch including a frame, a first stationary contact stationarily fixed to the frame, a contact support element adapted to move relative to the frame between a first position and second position, a movable contact stationarily fixed relative to the contact support element and having a longitudinal direction, a first arc shutter, and an actuation system for moving and guiding the first arc shutter during an opening event. The actuation system includes a first actuator member stationarily fixed relative to the frame, and a second actuator member stationarily fixed relative to the first arc shutter. The first arc shutter is adapted to move in an outward direction during the opening event, wherein the outward direction is parallel to the longitudinal direction of the movable contact.