Contactor Latching Module With Holder-Mediated Low-Force Tripping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional latching modules in electrical devices face challenges in maintaining a reliable locking mechanism with sufficient shock resistance and low tripping force, especially under low voltage conditions.
Innovation Solution
The proposed latching module incorporates a swing arm, a pivotable tripper, and a holder, where the holder applies a force to the tripper to secure it in a holding position, enhancing the locking force and shock resistance without significantly increasing the tripping force.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Strength
If the latching force is increased to improve shock resistance, then the shock resistance is improved, but the tripping force increases, resulting in the latching module not operating properly under low voltage
Solution Approach 1:
The latching module is divided into functionally independent components: the swing arm for locking, the tripper for tripping, and the holder for maintaining position. This segmentation allows each component to be optimized independently - the swing arm can provide high locking force through its structure, while the tripper can be designed to respond to low tripping forces through its pivotable connection and positioning mechanism.
Solution Approach 2:
The holder acts as an intermediary component that maintains the tripper in a predetermined holding position. By positioning the tripper away from the swing arm's locked position, the holder creates a mechanical buffer that allows the swing arm to exert high locking force without directly transmitting that force to the tripping mechanism, thus enabling high locking force with low tripping force requirement.
2Reliability
If additional latching modules are added to the contactor to realize state switching, then the state switching capability is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The swing arm serves multiple functions: it acts as both the locking component (by engaging with the contactor's moving component) and the tripping component (by positioning the tripper through the holder). This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate latching modules, reducing structural complexity while maintaining reliable state switching capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The latching module combines the locking mechanism (swing arm) and the tripping mechanism (tripper with holder) into a single integrated assembly. The holder merges the functions of maintaining the tripper position and mediating between the swing arm and tripper, thereby reducing the number of separate components needed while achieving reliable state switching.
Data Source
AI summary
A latching module for an electrical device includes: a swing arm movable between an unlocked position and a locked position; a tripper movable between a holding position and a tripped position; a holder, its first portion acts on the tripper and its second portion acts on the swing arm. When the swing arm is in the locked position and the tripper is in the holding position, the holder bears a force from the swing arm to make the holder abut against the tripper to apply a force on the tripper, and the tripper is secured in the holding position, and the holder holds the swing arm in the locked position. When the tripper is in the tripped position, the holder releases the hold on the swing arm and the swing arm moves from the locked position towards the unlocked position. A contactor including the latching module also is disclosed.