Plug-In Circuit Breaker Locking Structure to Prevent Accidental Pull-Out
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing plug-in circuit breakers have complex internal structures, large volumes, and are prone to misoperation due to accidental touch, with complex locking mechanisms that occupy internal space and make installation difficult.
Innovation Solution
A plug-in circuit breaker with an independent unlocking mechanism, separate from the button mechanism, to prevent accidental pull-out during switch-off operations, featuring a locking mechanism with a first locking member that retracts into the housing when unlocked, and a compact design with centrally arranged buttons and wire outlets for easier operation and installation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a button mechanism is used to pull out the circuit breaker, then the operation is simple, but the circuit breaker is easily pulled out accidentally during switch-off operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the original button mechanism into two independent parts: a button mechanism for switch-on/switch-off operations and a separate pulling member mechanism for pull-out operations. This segmentation ensures that the button for switching cannot accidentally trigger the pull-out function, as the pulling member is a distinct component that requires intentional activation. The button mechanism remains simple for switching operations while the pulling member provides dedicated control for removal, resolving the contradiction between operational simplicity and anti-misoperation reliability.
2Reliability
If a locking mechanism is added to prevent accidental pull-out, then the reliability improves, but the internal structure becomes complex and occupies more space
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the locking function with the existing button mechanism and pulling member structure. The button mechanism and pulling member are integrated into a unified design where the button mechanism inherently provides locking during switch-on state, and the pulling member provides controlled unlocking for pull-out operations. This merging avoids adding separate complex locking components, maintaining reliability while controlling structural complexity and space occupation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the circuit breaker housing has scattered openings for buttons and wires, then the functional requirements are met, but the installation becomes difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent designs the housing with a standardized opening structure that serves multiple functions: wire insertion, button access, and pulling member operation all occur through or near the same opening region. This universal opening design consolidates multiple access points into a unified interface, making installation easier while still meeting all functional requirements for wire connections, switching operations, and pull-out operations.
Data Source
AI summary
A plug-in circuit breaker that includes a circuit breaker housing, and a locking mechanism, an unlocking mechanism, and a button mechanism all arranged inside the circuit breaker housing, and an operating mechanism connected to the button mechanism to drive the circuit breaker to switch on/switch off; the locking mechanism includes a first locking member with one end protruding outside the circuit breaker housing, and the circuit breaker housing comprises a locking member opening co-operated with the first locking member; the unlocking mechanism includes an independent pulling member drivingly co-operated with the first locking member, when the circuit breaker is in the switch-off state, one end of the first locking member protrudes outside the circuit breaker housing from the locking member opening, and pulling the pulling member enables the first locking member to retract into the inside of the circuit breaker housing.