Disconnect Terminal Coupling for Joint or Independent Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing disconnect terminal arrangements require complex and cumbersome processes to separately switch individual switching devices, as common coupling devices are difficult to detach from switching levers.
Innovation Solution
A coupling device with a connecting member that is adjustable along an alignment direction, allowing for a simple and user-friendly coupling and decoupling of switching devices between a coupling and release position, enabling joint or independent operation of multiple disconnect terminals.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a coupling device is used to mechanically couple switching devices together, then joint actuation of multiple disconnect terminals is enabled, but the coupling device becomes difficult to detach and requires complex dismantling processes for separate switching
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member is designed to be adjustable between a coupled position (where it connects the switching levers) and a decoupled position (where it is detached). This dynamic adjustability allows the coupling device to transition from a fixed connection to a removable connection, enabling both joint actuation and easy separation without complex dismantling procedures
Solution Approach 2:
The connecting member acts as an intermediary element between the switching levers. It can be inserted to couple the levers together for joint actuation, and removed to allow separate actuation. This intermediary component mediates between the need for coupling and the need for separability, simplifying the overall operation
2Reliability
If a connector is firmly connected to switching levers, then reliable mechanical coupling is achieved, but the connector cannot be easily removed for independent switching operations
Solution Approach 1:
The connecting member transitions from a static firmly-connected design to a dynamic adjustable design. It can be positioned to firmly connect the switching levers when coupling is needed, and easily moved to a detached position when separation is needed, maintaining both reliability and ease of operation
Data Source
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AI summary
A disconnect terminal arrangement (1) comprises at least two disconnect terminals (2, 3) arranged in a row along a direction (A) and each having at least one first electrical connection (200, 300), at least one second electrical connection (201, 301) and a switching device (21, 31). A coupling device serves to mechanically couple the switching devices (21, 31) of the at least two disconnect terminals (2, 3) in order to actuate the switching devices (21, 31) together.The coupling device comprises a first coupling element (22) associated with the switching device (21, 31) of a first of the at least two disconnect terminals (2, 3), a second coupling element (32) associated with the switching device (21, 31) of at least a second of the at least two disconnect terminals (2, 3), and a connecting element (4), wherein the connecting element (4) is adjustable along the alignment direction (A) relative to the first coupling element (22) and the second coupling element (32) between a coupling position and a release position.