Switch Contact Transverse Offset Reduction via Counter-Pressure
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing low-voltage load disconnectors experience reduced connection speed due to the spreading process required for switching contacts, which increases wear and slows down the switching process.
Innovation Solution
A moving counter-pressure element is used to press the moving contact area towards the common contact plane in the open position, reducing the transverse offset and allowing the counter-pressure element to move with the switching contact during closure, while remaining stationary as the contact area continues to move into the closed position, eliminating the need for the spreading process.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If spreading elements are used to enable the switching contacts to enter without resistance, then the switching contacts can be inserted easily, but the connection speed is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The counter-pressure element is moved into the closed position together with the moving switching contact during the closing movement, performing the spreading action in advance during the approach phase rather than during the actual contact insertion, thereby maintaining high connection speed while still enabling easy contact insertion
2Ease of operation
If spreading process is used during connection, then the contact blades can enter without resistance, but wear increases and connection time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The spreading action is performed preliminarily during the closing movement before the actual contact engagement, allowing the contact blades to enter without resistance while minimizing the duration of the spreading process, thereby reducing wear and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The counter-pressure element is designed to be movable, changing its position dynamically during the closing operation - moving with the switching contact during approach, then stopping to allow controlled contact insertion - thereby optimizing both ease of entry and wear characteristics
Data Source
AI summary
An embodiment relates to a method for closing a switch and a switch for performing the method, the switch having a stationary switch contact including a stationary contact face, a movable switch contact including a movable contact face parallel to the stationary contact face and lying under pressure against the stationary contact face in the closed state, and an elastic transversal offset of the contact faces which ensures that pressure is applied when the contact surfaces lie against each other. To guarantee closing during a short-circuit, a displaceable counter-pressure element is provided which presses against the movable contact face in the open position and at least reduces the transversal offset. The counter-pressure element moves in conjunction with the movable switch contact towards the closed position when the switch closes. The counter-pressure element stops moving during the closing movement, while the movable contact face continues to move into the closed position.