Circuit Breaker Interlock Mechanism for Motorization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mechanical interlock devices for electrical circuit breakers either compromise the application of motorization or require complex structures, occupy space, necessitate voltage cutting during maintenance, and require periodic adjustments, especially 'rear' interlock devices located near conductive parts.
Innovation Solution
A molded case multipole circuit breaker with an interlock device that is sandwiched between the circuit breakers, allowing lateral action and featuring a rocker mechanism with control pins and springs to prevent simultaneous activation, reducing panel thickness and simplifying maintenance by avoiding voltage cutting.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If front interlock devices are used to mechanically interfere with control levers, then simultaneous activation is prevented, but the possibility to apply motorization devices frontally is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock device is moved from the front to the rear of the circuit breakers, changing the spatial dimension of operation. The control pins extend through the rear walls and act on the control levers from behind, allowing the front faces to remain clear for motorization devices while maintaining the interlocking function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If rear interlock devices are mounted inside the electric panel at the back, then front implements can be applied, but voltage cutting is required during maintenance and the structure becomes complex
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock device is integrated directly into the circuit breaker assembly, with control pins that are part of the breaker's internal mechanism. This merging eliminates the need for separate complex interlock mechanisms in the panel and allows maintenance without voltage cutting since the interlock is inherent to the breaker unit itself.
3Adaptability or versatility
If rear interlock devices are used, then front implements can be applied, but much room is occupied in the panel thickness
Solution Approach 1:
The interlock control pins are nested within the circuit breaker housing structure, with pins extending through rear walls and acting on internal components. This nesting allows the interlock function to be contained within the breaker's own volume rather than requiring additional space in the panel thickness.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient, space-saving, and easy maintenance of electrical circuit breakers by preventing simultaneous activation of energy sources, reducing panel thickness, and eliminating the need for voltage cutting during maintenance operations.
Implementation Method 1
a spring suitable to cooperate with the rocker in order to bring the control pin into the lower position
Data Source
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AI summary
A molded case multipole electrical circuit breaker (Sw-sx) is described, including an outer shell (2) comprising a front wall (2a) on which a primary control member (L-sx) is provided which is movable between an activation position (ON) and a deactivation position (OFF) of the circuit breaker, a pair of opposite side walls (2b, 2c), an upper side (2d), a lower side (2e), and a rear wall (2f) intended to be connected to a support member. The circuit breaker further includes: - an opening (10) on at least one of said opposite side walls (2b, 2c); and - a rotatable activation member (17a) which is arranged internally to the outer shell (2), the rotatable activation member including at least one hole (17c) facing said opening (10). The circuit breaker is characterized in that: - said rotatable activation member carries electrical contacts for the switching of the circuit breaker between a closed state and an open state; and - said opening (10) provided on at least one of said opposite side walls (2b, 2c) of the circuit breaker outer shell (2) is a bent slot.