Latching Device Locking Member for Electrical Switching Apparatus
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing latching devices for electrical switching apparatuses are cumbersome and over-dimensioned, with internal moving parts obstructing the main arm after unlocking, leading to increased operating time due to the need to push these parts out of the way, which slows down the system's operation.
Innovation Solution
A latching device with a locking member and tripping member arrangement that allows the electromagnet to drive the gear function directly, reducing operation time by half, featuring connected moving parts, reduced friction, and requiring only one spring for resetting, enabling the drive member to move freely without obstruction.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional latching devices with multiple internal moving parts are used, then the locking function is achieved, but the operating time increases due to parts obstructing the main arm after unlocking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes the obstructing internal moving parts from the latching device. The locking member is designed to move directly between locked and unlocked positions without intermediate parts that would obstruct the main arm, eliminating the time delay caused by pushing parts out of the way after unlocking.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of having the main arm push internal parts out of the way after unlocking, the invention inverts the sequence by ensuring the locking member clears the path beforehand. The locking member's movement is designed to automatically create clearance for the main arm during the unlocking process itself.
2Reliability
If traditional latching devices with complex linkages are used, then the locking mechanism is robust, but the device complexity increases and friction is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member is segmented into functional portions: a contact portion for engaging the drive member and a blocking portion for preventing backward movement. This segmentation allows each portion to perform its specific function independently, reducing the need for additional parts while maintaining robustness.
Solution Approach 2:
The locking member serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the locking action through the blocking portion, transmits force through the contact portion, and creates clearance for the main arm through its overall movement. This multi-functionality reduces the total number of parts needed in the system.
3Reliability
If traditional latching devices with multiple springs are used, then the resetting function is reliable, but the manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The single spring in the invention performs multiple functions: it biases the locking member toward the unlocked position, provides the resetting force after actuation, and maintains proper tension during operation. This multi-functional use of one spring reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining reliable resetting function.
4Loss of time
If electromagnet drives the gear function directly without obstructing parts, then the operation time is reduced, but the force transmission mechanism must be redesigned
Solution Approach 1:
The locking member acts as an intermediary between the electromagnet and the main arm. When the electromagnet actuates the locking member, the locking member's movement automatically creates clearance and transmits the unlocking action to the main arm without requiring the electromagnet to directly push the main arm or other intermediate parts.
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 significantly reduces operating time, enhances stability, and decreases production costs by minimizing parts and allowing larger tolerances, facilitating fast and controlled movement of the contact portion out of the force-transmitting relation, with the electromagnet driving the gear function instead of the drive member, and removing the main blocking function during pre-tripped operations.
Implementation Method 1
EP 2 246 869-A1 discloses a mechanical latching unit for a main drive unit for an electrical switching apparatus with a counter roller such that only a small fraction of the force has to be transmitted through the mechanism
Implementation Method 2
The movement of the linkage is activated by an electromagnetic plunger
Data Source
AI summary
A latching device for an operating mechanism for an electrical switching apparatus. The device has a locking member movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the locking member is arranged to lock a drive member of the operating mechanism in a locked position, and a force of the drive member being applied to a contact portion of the locking member. In the second position the locking member is arranged to release the drive member from the locked position. At least in the first position the locking member is arranged to bear against the counter roller. A tripping member is movable between a first position locking the locking member and a second position releasing the locking member. The locking member has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable connected to a first link around a first pivot axis, which first pivot axis is movable perpendicular to its direction. The second portion is rotatable connected to a second link around a second pivot axis and movable perpendicular to its direction. The second link is rotatable connected to the tripping element around a third pivot axis. Movement of the tripping member from its first position to its second position initiates movement of the contact portion out of force-transmitting relation with the drive member.