AT512264A2 - SWITCHGEAR - Google Patents

Abstract

In a switching device (1) with a switching mechanism (2), at least one first switching contact (3) and at least one second switching contact, wherein at least the first switching contact (3) is designed as a movable switching contact, wherein upon contact of the two switching contacts (3) a Current path through the switching device (1) is closed, wherein the switching mechanism (2) has a pivotally mounted shift lever (4), a pawl (5) and a Verklinkungsstelle (6), wherein the switching mechanism (2) at least indirectly with the first switching contact ( 3) in order to control the movement of the first switching contact (3), it is proposed that the switching device (1) has a covering device (50) which covers the latching point (6) at least partially, preferably substantially completely, when the Switching contacts (3) are disconnected and the pawl (5) is disengaged from the Verklinkungsstelle (6).

Description

1 ♦ »··» »» * »· '^ 316 / lh

The invention relates to a switching device according to the preamble of claim 1.

Switching devices for electrical safety tasks, which are provided and designed to automatically interrupt a flow of current through the switching device when specifiable conditions occur, so-called self-switches, as a rule, have a mechanical device which controls the opening and closing of corresponding switching contacts of the switching device. It is usually provided that mechanical energy is stored to quickly open the switch contacts in case of failure. Such devices are referred to as a switch lock. The mechanical energy for opening the switch contacts is thereby applied manually, for example, by a spring in the switch lock is tensioned until an internal latching takes place, whereby parts of the switch latch remain in a taut arrangement. In this case, about a pawl called component locked at a so-called. Verklinkungsstelle.

With closed switching contacts, a current can flow through or through the switching device. If the switch contacts are disconnected during the separation process, or just by the separation process, an arc between the separating switch contacts. This arc is the more intense the higher the current flowing through the switching contacts current at the time of separation. In particular, in the case of short circuits, currents in the range of many thousands of amperes can flow via the switching contacts at the beginning of the separation process.

It can after shutdown, in particular a short circuit, occurrence that the relevant switching device was thereby affected in such a way that it no longer works as expected. Therefore, that it triggers in subsequent trigger situations worse or not at all. It has also been shown that the function of the entire musculoskeletal system of the switching device can be affected after a corresponding shutdown.

The object of the invention is therefore to provide a switching device of the type mentioned, with which the mentioned disadvantages can be avoided, with which the functionality or the life of such switching devices can be improved, in particular after switching off high currents. * 53316 / lh 2 I i · 4 ·· «· 44 III 444 44 444

This is achieved by the features of claim 1 according to the invention.

As a result, the functionality of such a switching device can be improved over a long period of time, in particular ensured. This can increase safety in electrical systems. In particular, thereby the life or the duration of the complete operational readiness of such a switching device can be increased. As a result, in particular the functionality of such a switching device can be obtained even after switching off high currents, such as in the case of a short circuit.

The subclaims relate to further advantageous embodiments of the invention.

It is hereby expressly referred to the wording of the claims, whereby the claims at this point are incorporated by reference into the description and are considered to be reproduced verbatim.

The invention will be described in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which only preferred embodiments are shown by way of example. Showing:

Fig. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a switching device in an exploded view;

Figure 2 shows a first preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism in axonometric representation with the shift lever in the first position.

FIG. 3 shows the switching mechanism according to FIG. 2 in side elevation; FIG.

Fig. 4 is a detail view of FIG. 3;

Fig. 5 parts of the switching mechanism of Figure 2 in detail view, in the second position.

FIG. 6 shows the view according to FIG. 5 with the switch lock in the third position; FIG.

Fig. 7 shows a preferred embodiment of a covering in axonometric representation;

FIG. 8 shows the covering device according to FIG. 7 in side elevation; FIG.

FIG. 9 shows a second preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism in FIG. 3... 0... · · · · * VmA / lh axonometric representation with the gear lever in the first position;

FIG. 10 shows the switching mechanism according to FIG. 9 in side elevation; FIG.

Fig. 11 parts of the switching mechanism of Figure 10 in detail view. FIG. 12 shows the parts according to FIG. 11 in axonometric representation; FIG.

Fig. 13 is a side elevation view of parts of the first preferred embodiment of the switch latch with the shift lever in the first position;

14 is a third preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism in axonometric representation with the shift lever in the first position; and

Fig. 15, the switching mechanism of FIG. 14 in side elevation.

Fig. 1 shows a preferred embodiment of a switching device 1 with a switching mechanism 2, at least a first switching contact 3 and at least a second switching contact, wherein at least the first switching contact 3 is designed as a movable switching contact, wherein upon contact of the two switching contacts 3, a current path through the switching device 1, wherein the switching mechanism 2 has a pivotally mounted shift lever 4, a pawl 5 and a Verklinkungsstelle 6, wherein the switching mechanism 2 is at least indirectly connected to the first switching contact 3 to control the movement of the first switching contact 3.

In addition to the assemblies or components shown in Fig. 1, such a switching device, in particular its switching mechanism 2, further comprises a cover 50 which the Verklinkungsstelle 6 at least partially, preferably substantially completely, covers when the switching contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 is out of engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle 6. As a result, the functionality of such a switching device 1 can be improved over a long period of time, in particular ensured. This can increase safety in electrical systems. In particular, thereby the life or the duration of the complete operational readiness of such a switching device 1 can be increased. As a result, in particular the functionality of such a switching device 1 even after 4 • * 3316 / lh

Shut down high currents are obtained. The corresponding cover device 50 according to the particularly preferred embodiments shown in the further FIGS. 2 to 15 is covered in FIG. 1 by a cover 12 in the region of the shift lever 4.

Fig. 1 shows the individual modules of a corresponding preferred switching device 1 in axonometric representation, which are briefly explained in the introduction. It should be noted that the corresponding assemblies, which further comprises such a switching device 1 next to the switching mechanism 2, may also be formed differently than shown in FIG. 1, insofar as they have only peripheral character for the invention. Nevertheless, the embodiments of a switching device 1 according to the invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 6 and 9 to 15 represent the best known embodiments of such at the time of the application, wherein the number of switching paths can vary.

The illustrated switching device 1 has three switching paths, is thus designed for simultaneous switching of three conductors. The number of switching paths is not limiting. Both switching devices 1 with a small number of switching paths, in particular one or two, as well as a higher number of switching paths, in particular four or five, may be provided. As a switching path while a current path through the switching device 1 between an input terminal 13 and a corresponding output terminal 14 is referred to, which, when the corresponding switching contacts 3 are closed, forms a continuous electrically conductive connection through the switching device 1.

The switching device 1 preferably has a two-part insulating material housing, which is divided into a lower shell 15 and an upper shell 16. It is preferably provided that the individual components are arranged in the lower shell 15, and the upper shell 16 closes the lower shell 15 as a lid.

The switching device has corresponding input and output terminals 13,14, wherein in Fig. 1, only parts of the relevant input and output terminals 13, 14 are shown. 5> 6S316 / lh

The switching device 1, each switching path on two mutually associated switching contacts, of which at least one is movably disposed within the switching device 1. The illustrated preferred embodiment has per switching path exactly on a movably mounted switching contact, which is referred to as the first switching contact 3. This is in each case attached to a contact arm 10 which is mounted on a switching shaft 17. The switching shaft 17 is rotatably or pivotally mounted on a bearing 18 of the insulating material. The individual first switching contacts 3 of such a switching device 1 with a plurality of switching paths are coupled via the switching shaft 17. The switching shaft 17 is, as explained further with the switching mechanism 2 in mechanical operative connection.

Each movable first switching contact 3 is associated with a second switching contact, which is formed in the preferred embodiment shown as a housing-fixed second switching contact. However, it can also be provided that the second switching contact is also designed as a movable switching contact. The second switching contacts are not shown in the subject figures, since they are arranged in the preferred embodiment within the so-called. Arc quenching chambers 19.

Preferably, the subject switching device 1 is designed as a so-called. Self-switch, and is therefore designed to automatically disconnect the switch contacts 3 when certain specifiable conditions occur. This process will be referred to as triggering. The term closed switch contacts 3 refers to a state in which two mutually associated switch contacts 3 are in conductive contact, and such a conductive current path consists of the switching device. The term open switch contacts 3 refers to a state in which the respective switch contacts 3 are in no conductive contact, and consequently the current flow through the switchgear 1 is prevented. The two designations characterize static states between which a transition in the form of opening or closing of the switching contacts takes place or can take place, during which the switching contacts approach each other or from each other, and during this briefly a conductive connection by the switching device 1 due to arcing can exist.

In particular, with respect to arcs, which according to the 6

Induktionsgesetzt arise when opening the switch contacts, the switching device 1 per switching path an arc extinguishing chamber 19. The switching device shown in FIG. 1 thus has three arc extinguishing chambers 19.

The opening or closing of the switching contacts is controlled by the switching mechanism 2. For this purpose, it is provided that the switching mechanism 2 is at least indirectly connected at least to the first switching contact 3 in order to control the movement of the first switching contact 3. The switching mechanism 2 has at least one pivotally mounted shift lever 4, a pawl 5 and a Verklinkungsstelle 6, and will be described in detail elsewhere. For the general description of the switching device 1, it should be mentioned in advance that to release the switching device 1, a release of a latching of the pawl 5 with a Verklinkungsstelle 6 is required. The term latching means a state in which the pawl 5 bears against a surface or edge under pressure, and is held by this surface, which is referred to as Verklinkungsstelle 6. It can be provided that the corresponding state is formed by a further component, which is arranged between the pawl 5 and the Verklinkungsstelle 6, but ensures the functionality described.

The illustrated preferred embodiment of the switching device 1 is designed as a circuit breaker or circuit breaker. However, it may also be a training as residual current circuit breaker or provided as a remote release switch.

When designed as a circuit breaker or circuit breaker, the switching device 1 preferably has an overcurrent tripping device 20 and a short-circuit tripping device 21.

The short-circuit release device 21 is preferably designed as an electromagnetic device, which is arranged in the region of each of the input terminals 13, and consists of a U-shaped yoke and a hinged armature. When a short circuit occurs, we generate a force by the very high current strength, which pulls the hinged armature to the U-shaped yoke. This movement is used to trigger the switching device 1. 7 t · * * · ·

· ♦ ··· ·· «* Φ I

Furthermore, an overcurrent tripping device 20 is provided, which is preferably designed as a bimetallic tripping device, which is likewise arranged downstream of the input terminals 13 at each of the input terminals 13. Increased current flow leads to heating of the bimetal, which then bends, causing a tripping of the switching device 1. In this case, it is provided according to the preferred embodiments shown that the bimetal actuates a reversing lever 22 or set in rotational movement.

By moving the hinged armature in the illustrated preferred switching devices 1 also the reversing lever 22 is set in rotary motion, which actuates the pawl 5 after a predetermined rotation and the latching of the pawl 5 with the Verklinkungsstelle 6 triggers, causing the switching device 1 is triggered

The switching mechanism 2 of a switching device 1 according to the invention is designed in such a way that it must be latched in a separate step before closing the switching contacts. Closing the switch contacts is therefore not possible in such a switch lock 2 without prior latching of the switch lock 2. The basic functionality of the switching mechanism 2 will be described below. The position or position indicated in each case as the position of the shift lever 4 in each case preferably relates to a state of the entire shift lock 2, which consists of a number of mechanically interacting parts. It may therefore be stated in the further course of the description instead of the position of the shift lever 4 only "position", which in each case preferably refers to a state of the entire switching mechanism 2, which is easily recognizable by the position of the shift lever 4. The term "position" refers to a static position, which holds the lever 4 without applying an external force. In particular, the term "position" does not include any positions, which the shift lever 4 has only by applying a manual holding force, or during which.

The following description is limited to a switching mechanism 2 with immediate or simple latching, wherein in the latching the pawl 5 is latched directly to the Verklinkungsstelle 6, and no further component is provided, which is arranged therebetween. A corresponding switch lock with a so-called. Klinkhebel 26 will be explained. 8th . . * ≪ 33316 / ΙΗ

In a first step of the shift lever 4, the switching contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 out of engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle 6. There is no current flow through the switching device 1 and an immediate closing of the switch contacts is not possible. This position has the switch lock 2 about after a successful tripping.

In a second position of the shift lever 4, the switching contacts 3 are still separated, while the pawl 5 is latched to the Verklinkungsstelle 6. From the first position, only a transition to the second position is possible. During this transition from the first position to the second position, a so-called lock spring 23 is tensioned. In this case, about the rotatably mounted shift lever 4 is pivoted about a predetermined angular range in a first direction 24. Furthermore, the movable in the preferred embodiment, so-called. Support lever 25, on which the Verklinkungsstelle 6 is arranged, pushed under the pawl 5. The transition, therefore, also the pivoting of the shift lever, takes place in the latching of the pawl 5 at the Verklinkungsstelle 6 its conclusion. The Verklinkungsstelle 6 is pushed so far under the pawl 5 that a positive connection is given. The pawl 5 is held at the VerklinkungssteUe 6. It may be provided in this context that the switching mechanism 2 has a multiple pawl 5, and in the course of said transition, not only a latch is formed, but several, about two, latches.

From the second position, a transition can take place in a third position. In a preferred switching mechanism 2, this transition takes place by pivoting the switching lever 4 in the second direction 27. The latch 5 remains latched at the Verklinkungsstelle 6 while the switch contacts are closed.

The switching mechanism 2 acts at this transition in the manner of a snap-action switch, therefore, the closing of the switching contacts occurs abruptly as soon as the shift lever 4 has exceeded a certain position. In the third position, therefore, the switch contacts are closed. From the third position, a transition to the first position is possible by triggering the switching device 2.

From the third position is also a transition to the second position possible. This transition takes place by actuation of the shift lever 4. This is for this purpose 9 ♦ ·

·: - * - * ß316 / lh against the direction of movement required to close the contacts. This transition is also leaps and bounds. Therefore, the Schalkontakte remain closed during a first part of the pivoting of the shift lever 4 to open quickly from a certain position of the shift lever 4. As a result, a manual shutdown of the switching device 1 is possible. When the switching device is triggered, there is a transition from the third position to the first position.

FIGS. 2 to 6 and 9 to 15 show three particularly preferred embodiments of a switching mechanism 2. The first preferred embodiment in FIGS. 2 to 6 and 13, the second preferred embodiment in FIGS. 9 to 12 and the third preferred embodiment in FIGS 14 and 15. The respective embodiments differ in each case in details, which is referred to in the respective description.

It should be noted that the subject invention can also harmonize with other embodiments of a switching mechanism 2.

The switching mechanism 2 has a first lock plate 28 and a second lock plate 29, which are each preferably formed as a stamped sheet metal part, and have an angled region. The two lock plates 28, 29 each have on a bottom on a bending point 30, which is intended to be passed through an opening of the lower shell 15 to be bent on an outer side thereof and to arrange the switching mechanism 2 in the switching device 1.

The two lock plates 28, 29 further each have a first V-shaped recess 31, which has a circular arc-shaped conclusion, which serves as a bearing, and in which the shift lever 4 is pivotally mounted.

The shift lever 4 is formed as a bent sheet metal part, and has a substantially U-shaped basic shape from which protrudes a handle extension 32 which is covered by a cover 12 in the complete switching device 1.

Between the two lock plates 28, 29, the so-called. Support lever 25 is further arranged, which is mounted on pins 33 which on the mutually facing inner sides of the lock plates 28, 29 are arranged. The support lever 25, which likewise has a U-shaped basic shape, engages with two hook-shaped extensions 34 on the pins 33. The pins 33 and the hook-shaped extensions 34 are shown approximately in FIGS. 3, 5 and 6.

At a connecting web 35 of the support lever 25, the Verklinkungsstelle 6 is arranged, as shown in Fig. 2. This preferably has a high surface quality and tight manufacturing tolerances.

On the support lever 25 is the so-called. Knee lever 36 is pivotally mounted, which includes the toggle lever axis 37 with. The toggle lever axis 37 is arranged on a side facing away from the handle extension 32. The toggle lever 36 is arranged in the interior of the switching mechanism, and only partially recognizable in the figures, for example in FIGS. 3 to 6 or particularly well in FIG. 12.

On the toggle lever shaft 37 engages one end of the lock spring 23, the other end engages the shift lever 4, in the region of the handle extension 32. The toggle lever shaft 37 engages the complete switching device 1 in a corresponding receptacle of the Schaltwetle 17 to control them , FIGS. 5, 6 and 13 clearly show the toggle lever axis 37 the lock spring 23.

The first preferred embodiment of a switch lock has a lock spring, whereas the second preferred embodiment of a switch lock has two lock springs, which are arranged side by side on the toggle lever axis 37. FIG. 12 shows the side-by-side lock springs 23.

At second V-shaped recesses 38 of the lock plates 28, 29, the pawl 5 is pivotally mounted. The pawl 5 is formed as a plastic part, and has two ply edges 39, which are arranged at the complete switch lock 2 in the second V-shaped recesses 38.

The pawl 5 has a release bracket 40, which is shown approximately in FIGS. 2, 9 and 14. In the switching device 1, the reversing lever 22 is arranged relative to this trip bar 40 to move the trip bar 40 in the event of triggering. 11 • · # · · • * • ·· · 5 · ** 3 ^ 316 / Lh

The pawl 5 further has in the region of one of the bearing edges 39 on a stop edge 41, which is approximately in Fig. 6, and with which this on a part of the switching mechanism 2, in particular the second lock plate 29, rests, to specify a defined position of Pawl 5 in the second or third position.

The pawl 5 is connected by means of a pawl spring 42 with the Klinkhebet 26, which is well shown approximately in Fig. 3. This is clamped in the first position between the pawl 5 and the support lever 25. The latching lever 26 is considered as a functional unit with the pawl 5, since he supports the pawl 5 in the latching. The subject preferred switching device 1 therefore has a two-part pawl, which is formed by the actual pawl 5 and the latch lever 26.

In the transition of the switching mechanism 2 from the first position to the second position is - in these particular embodiments of a switching mechanism 2 - the latch 26, the contact between the Verklinkungsstelle 6 and the pawl 5 ago. In this case, the latching point 6 is pushed under the latching lever 26, while at the same time a latching lever extension 43 of the latching lever 26 rests against a latching surface 44 of the latch 5. Upon release, the latching surface 44 is pushed by pivoting the pawl 44 under the latching lever extension 43, whereby the latching lever 26 moves away from the Verklinungsstelle 6 and so the latch is released. Such a switching mechanism 2 therefore has a so-called double latching action. This has proven to be advantageous if lock springs 23 are provided with high forces. In such a switching mechanism 2, the latch 5 is indirectly latched to the Verklinkungsstelle 6 in the latched state.

In particular, in switching locks 2, which have weaker lock springs 23, a direct latching of the pawl 5 is provided with the Verklinkungsstelle 6. Such switching locks 2 have no latch lever 26. A part of the pawl 5 is in the latched state in immediate contact with the Verklinkungsstelle. 6

It may appear in addition to the term indirect latching and / or at least indirect latching also only latching the latch 5 with the Verklinkungsstelle 6. This is, unless it is explicitly stated, no restriction to 12 immediate latching of the latch 5 with the Verklinkungsstelle 6, but may include said indirect latching of the pawl 5 with the Verklinkungsstelle 6 by means of latch 26.

It is envisaged that the switching device 1, in particular the switching mechanism 2, at least one covering 50 has, which covers the Verklinkungsstelle 6 at least partially, preferably substantially completely, when the switching contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 out of engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle. 6 is. The constellation in question is referred to in the present context as the first position, which occupies the switching device 1 and the switching mechanism 2 after tripping. Figs. 2 to 4, 9, 10, 14 and 15 show this state.

As already explained, switchgear devices 1, in particular after switching off a high current flow, may impair the function. It has been found that switching off a high current flow generates an arc of considerable intensity. Due to the prevailing conditions it comes to metal removal at the switch contacts and the quenching plates. This results in the formation of a very hot gas or plasma, in which in addition to soot, due to material removal on parts of the insulating material, also metals occur. Investigations have shown that only part of the gas escapes via the arc extinguishing chambers 19 to the outside from the switching device 1. However, some of the gases remain within the switching device 1, and in particular condenses on the relatively cool metal parts of the switching mechanism 2. These parts are not exposed to direct current flow, and therefore not heated by such.

As has been shown, there is considerable tolerance in respect of such material deposits in most parts of the switching mechanism 2, which therefore lead to no functional impairment in most assemblies of the switching mechanism 2. It has been found that, in particular, metal particles which condense on the latching point 6 have a considerable proportion of corresponding functional impairments. In particular, the metal particles released during the zone-wise burning of the switching contacts can form barb-like surface structures on the latching point 13 M4 t ···· 6 when they are condensed, which can cause the pawl 5 to be interlocked at the latching point 6, as a result of which the relevant switching device 1 no longer triggers as expected. This can lead to a complete failure of the tripping functionality of the relevant switching device 1.

By covering device 50, therefore, the Verklinkungsstelle 6 is at least partially covered after the triggering of the switching device 1. It is preferably provided that the covering device 50 covers the latching point substantially completely. It is preferably provided in this connection that "substantially complete" means that the covering device 50 covers the latching point 6 to at least 75%. It has been shown that even a correspondingly regional coverage of Verklinkungsstelle 6 has correspondingly positive effect, and promotes the further functionality of the switching device 1.

As stated above, it is provided that the covering device 50 at least partially covers the latching point 6 in the position of the switching device 1 after triggering has taken place. It is preferably provided that the covering device 50 already covers the latching point 6 during an opening process of the switching contacts 3 at least in areas, preferably substantially completely. As stated above, in a preferred switching device 1, the opening of the switching contacts begins similar to a snap-action switch, therefore essentially suddenly or suddenly. It is therefore provided in this context, in particular, that the cover 50 is moved to the beginning of the opening movement of the at least one movable switch contact 3, on the intended position at the Verklinkungsstelle 6.

In addition to the cover of Verklinkungsstelle 6 after the triggering of the switching device 1, may further be provided to cover the Verklinkungsstelle 6 even after a manual shutdown, which is why it is preferably provided that the cover 50 covers the Verklinkungsstelle 6 at least partially, preferably substantially completely, when the switching contacts 3 are disconnected and the pawl 5 is in engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle 6. Such a shutdown is in the subject nomenclature, a transition 14 14th

- * 33316 / lh from the third position to the second position. Although when switching off not increased currents only a small arc is formed, thereby the life of the switching device 1, especially if this is used to increased manual switching tasks, be extended.

In the aforementioned arrangement, there may be occurrences that the cover 50 comes into contact with the pawl 5. It is therefore provided in this context that the cover 50 has a certain flexibility or is mounted relatively movable, in the way that it comes in the second position to a solution of the latching by the cover 50.

Preferably, the cover 50 is formed as part of the switching mechanism 2.

Since the covering device 50 is intended to prevent or reduce the effects of a separation of the switching contacts on the latching point 6, it is preferably provided that the covering device 50 is connected at least indirectly to the at least one first switching contact 3. Thereby, the control of the cover 50 can be easily performed with respect to the position of the switch contacts. It has been found to be advantageous to store the cover 50 in the region of the switching shaft 17.

However, it can also be provided that the covering device 50 is connected to other parts of the switching device 1 in order to ensure their positioning at the latching point 6 after the triggering of the switching device 1. According to a further embodiment, not shown, it is provided that the cover 50 is at least indirectly operatively connected to a triggering device 20, 21 of the switching device 1. In particular, it can be provided that the cover device 50 is connected to the short-circuit release device 21, and a movement of the cover device 50 is controlled by a movement of the short-circuit release device 21.

Preferably, it can also be provided that the cover device 50 is mounted on or in the region of the shift lever 4, or is at least indirectly connected to the shift lever 4. As a result, especially the cover of Verklinkungsstelle 6 in the first position and the second position is easily implemented. 15 ·· «« «· • ·· '• 8 ^ 316 / lh

It has proved to be advantageous that the covering device 50 is arranged in the region of a lock spring 23. Due to the natural flexibility of the lock spring 23, a certain advantageous mobility of the cover 50 can be achieved. In addition, the lock spring 23 controls the jump-like opening of the switch contacts.

In particular, it is provided that the covering device 50 is arranged in the region of the lock spring 23 in such a way that the cover device 50 is moved when the lock spring 23 moves. According to a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, it is provided that the covering device 50 surrounds the lock spring 23 at least in regions of movement of the shift lever 4. By encompassing areas ensures that a movement of the lock spring 23 is transmitted to the cover. As a result, orientation of the cover device 50 can also be influenced. In addition, the flow resistance in this area of the switching device 1 is increased by the encompassing areas of the covering device 50. As a result, lower amounts, escape from the arc chambers 19 exiting gases to Verklinkungsstelle. 6

Depending on the design of the switching device 1 can be provided that the lock spring 23 is at least indirectly connected to the at least one first switching contact 3 and / or that the lock spring 23 is attached to the shift lever 5.

It is preferably provided that the lock spring 23 on a control axis 51, which is also denoted in the present description as a toggle lever axis 37, is attached to control the at least one first switching contact 3, and that the cover 50 is mounted on the control shaft 51, whereby a robust construction is made possible. The lock spring 23 is attached to both the control shaft 51 and the shift lever 4.

It should be noted that applications of the cover 50 may be provided with differently designed Schaltschlössem 2, in which about a shift lever 4 is not directly connected by means of the lock spring 23 with the switching shaft 17. ··· ** 3 ^ 316 / lh 16 • · · · ♦ · · · »« «« «9 9»

Hereinafter, a first preferred embodiment of a covering device 50 will be described with reference to FIGS. 2 to 8, wherein in particular Figs. 7 and 8 show detailed representations of the relevant embodiment. It is also possible for differently configured covering devices 50 to be provided, in particular if another type of mounting is provided within the switching device 1 or the switching mechanism 2.

The cover device 50 in question, which is preferably designed as a plastic part, in particular as a plastic injection molded part, has a cover extension 52, to cover the Verklinkungsstelle 6. This cover extension 52 is at least partially disposed in the corresponding position of the switch latch 2 on the Verklinkungsstelle 6, such as shown in Figs. 2 to 5.

The cover extension 52 is at least so wide that it covers at least the region of the Verklinkungsstelle 6, at which width the pawl 5 engages in the latched state. In particular, it can be provided that the covering extension 52 has essentially the dimensions of the latching point 6.

According to the illustrated preferred embodiment, the covering device 50 has a U-shaped main body 53. The cover extension 52 is arranged on a leg 54 of the U-shaped main body 53. By the legs 54 of the U-shaped main body 53 can be easily achieved that the cover 50, the lock spring 23 engages partially. Thereby, the steering and alignment can be achieved by the lock spring 23, and further the flow resistance in the region of the lock spring 23 can be increased.

It can also be provided that the covering device 50 has a sleeve-shaped base body, and the covering extension 52 is formed on a lateral surface of such a sleeve-shaped base body.

At a web 55 of the U-shaped base body 53 and the sleeve-shaped base body, a bearing opening 56 is arranged, in which - in the assembled switch lock 2 - the control axis 51 is arranged. 17 Λ · · * ** 3 * i316 / lh

In the region of the bearing opening 56, a slot-shaped opening 57 is provided, through which in the preferred embodiment of a switching device 1, one end of the lock spring 23 is guided in order to be fastened to the toggle lever axis 37.

The illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 12 second preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism 2, has two lock springs 23, which are arranged parallel to each other on the toggle lever axis 37.

In this second preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism 2, a second preferred embodiment of a covering device 50 is arranged. This differs from the embodiment described above by the broader training, in which both lock springs 23 are partially enclosed by the legs 54 of the U-shaped main body 53. Corresponding to the number of lock springs 23, the covering device 50 has a corresponding number of slot-shaped openings 57.

The particularly preferred embodiments of a covering device 50 have the particular advantage that it can be easily integrated into an existing construction of a switching mechanism 2, without the need for further changes to the switching mechanism 2. This can be dispensed with costly changes in the production of the switching mechanism 2. As a result, expensive test series with regard to the long-term functionality of the switching mechanism 2 can be omitted.

FIGS. 14 and 15 each show views of a further preferred embodiment of a switching mechanism 2 for a representational switching device 1. Such a switching device 1 further comprises at least one securing device 7 for already described features for securing the at least indirect latching of the latch 5 with the latching point 6 during the transition from the third position to the second position. By such a security device 7 can be achieved that there is no false triggering of the switching device 1 during the relevant transition. By combining the cover 50 with the securing device 7, a particularly reliable switching device 1 can be formed. 18 • · «** & 316 / lh

According to a preferred embodiment of the securing device 7, which will be described in more detail below, it is provided that the securing means 7 is designed for damping a movement of the pawl 5, which is caused during the transition from the third position to the second position. In this case, the basic degrees of freedom of the pawl 5 remain preserved, it is-but a movement of the pawl 5, in particular a movement of the pawl 5, which could lead to a triggering of the switching mechanism 2, attenuated. The term vaping denotes in a concrete context that the pawl 5, at least during a correspondingly caused movement of the same, a force is applied, which reduces the amplitude of the movement of the pawl 5. In particular, such that as a result of such movements decay in time. It has been found that the pawl 5 is placed at said transition in significant vibration. These vibrations are caused - as has been shown - in particular by the moving masses of the switching mechanism 2 and the at least one first switching contact 3, as well as their deceleration, which takes place, for example, by fixed stops in the region of the switching mechanism 2. The pulses generated thereby lead to a good part to said vibrations of the switching mechanism. 2

It is preferably provided that the securing device 7 is designed such that it acts on the pawl 5 at least from a position of the shift lever 4, in which a-caused by the switching mechanism 2 - opening movement of the first switching contact 3 is terminated at the earliest. It can thereby be achieved that at the latest from a time or a corresponding shift lever position or position of the shift lever 4 during the transition, the effect of the securing device 7 is given, from the * as has been shown-significant vibrations due to the impact pulse arise, which the deceleration of the at least one first switching contact 3, and further moving parts of the switching mechanism 2 is formed.

In particular, it can be provided that the securing device 7 is designed such that this acts on the pawl 5 from a position of the shift lever 4, from which an opening movement of the first switching contact 3 is caused by the switching mechanism 2. The position of the shift lever 4 is proportional to a time during the transition from the third position to the second 19 33316 / lh

Position. During the transition from the third position to the second position, the shift lever 4 and further parts of the switching mechanism 2 can already move, while the at least one first switching contact 3 still remains at rest.

It is shown that, in particular with this opening movement of the first switching contact 3, the causation of vibrations begins, which can have a negative effect on the latching of the switching mechanism 2, albeit at a certain switchgear-dependent position of the shift lever 4 These vibrations are lower than the aforementioned vibrations when stopping the moving switch contact parts. As a result, the security of the latch can be further increased.

In order to damp a movement of the pawl 5 at said transition, the movement of the pawl 5 is intended to be damped in particular.

According to a preferred embodiment, it is provided that the securing device 7 is designed as a spring 8. A spring 8 can cause a corresponding force on the pawl 5, which limits the movement of the pawl 5 at said transition and thus secures the latching of the pawl 5. It should be noted that a spring 8 is the real mechanical component spring 8, not an idealized spring. A real spring 8 is therefore not only an energy storage, but always a damper, which leads to a subsidence of the movement under the action of the spring 8. The design as a spring 8 allows a very simple production and low tolerances over long manufacturing processes.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, it is further provided that the spring 8 is designed as a leaf spring 9, as is also provided in the embodiment according to FIGS. 14 and 15. This allows a particularly simple production. It is preferably provided that the spring 8 or the leaf spring 9 as a metal spring, in particular as a steel spring, is formed, whereby a particularly good longevity, especially in the thermally demanding interior of a corresponding switching device 1, can be achieved. But it can also be provided to form the spring 8 of a polymer material. Preferably, it is further provided that the spring 8 has a flat spring characteristic. As a result, the force which the spring 8 exerts on the pawl can be achieved by means of the force. lh wide areas is substantially constant. It is preferably provided that the force which is applied by the spring 8 on the pawl 5 is small in order not to damage the pawl 5.

As an alternative to the design of the securing device 7 as a spring 8 it can be provided that the securing device 7 is designed as a polymer element, in particular as a polymer foam element.

It can be provided to secure the securing device 7 to the pawl 5, whereby the possibility is given to use the corresponding securing device 7 for influencing the center of gravity and / or the moment of inertia of the pawl 5 and thus also for influencing the tripping behavior. In this context, it can be preferably provided in continuation that the securing device 7 is designed such that it is objected to in the first position by the shift lever 4. As a result, the triggering operation is not influenced by the securing device 7.

It is preferably provided that the securing device 7 is attached to the shift lever 4. This makes it possible to easily retrofit an existing and mature design. As a result, in particular, the pawl 5 can be taken over unchanged in terms of their construction. An advantageous in practice and suitable latch construction can stand out as a lengthy evolutionary process, so that in the further use of the pawl 5 considerable development effort can be saved.

In the above context, it is preferably provided that the securing device 7 is designed such that it is objected to in the first position of the pawl 5. As a result, the triggering operation is not influenced by the securing device 7. As a result, we do not affect the entire triggering system and behavior of an existing and adapted construction of a corresponding switching device 1, so no new decrease desselbigen is required. As a result, without any changes or influences on the tripping behavior of a switching device 1, its false-tripping rate can be considerably reduced. 21 33316 / lh

In the preferred embodiment of the securing device 7 as a leaf spring 9 is further provided in particular that in the second position, only the contact region 46 of the leaf spring 9 is in contact with the pawl 5. In particular, it is provided hiebei that the contact portion 46 contacts a contact pin 47 of the pawl 5, which contact pin 47 is disposed in the region of the stop edge 41 of the pawl 5. As a result, the pawl 5 is pressed against it without being bent. As a result, the further region of the pawl 5 can be kept free of stress, or occur through the securing means 7 no additional stresses in the pawl 5, which would additionally burden them. As a result, the life of the pawl 5 can be increased, or it is not adversely affected by the securing means 7.

14 and 15 show a switching device 1 with a switching mechanism 2, at least a first switching contact 3 and at least a second switching contact, wherein at least the first switching contact 3 is designed as a movable switching contact, wherein upon contact of the two switching contacts 3, a current path through the switching device 1, wherein the switching mechanism 2 has a pivotally mounted shift lever 4, a latch 5 and a Verklinkungsstelle 6, wherein the switching mechanism 2 is at least indirectly connected to the first switching contact 3 to control the movement of the first switching contact 3, wherein in a first Position of the shift lever 4, the switch contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 is out of engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle 6, wherein in a second position of the shift lever 4, the switch contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 is at least indirectly latched to the Verklinkungsstelle 5, and wherein in a third position of the shift lever 4, the Sch Old contacts 3 are closed and the latch 5 is latched at the Verklinkungsstelle 6 at least indirectly, wherein the switching device 1 has at least one securing device 7 for securing the at least indirect latching of the latch 5 with the Verklinkungsstelle 6 during the transition from the third position to the second position , and wherein the switching device 1 has a covering device 50 which covers the Verklinkungsstelle 6 at least partially, when the switching contacts 3 are separated and the pawl 5 is disengaged from the Verklinkungsstelle 6.

claims:

Claims (15)

GIBLER & POTH PATENTANWÄLTE PATENT CLAIMS 1. Switching device (1) with a switch lock (2), at least one first switch contact (3) and at least one second switchgear Switch contact, wherein at least the first switch contact (3) is designed as a movable switch contact, wherein upon contact of the two switch contacts (3) a current path through the switching device (1) is closed, wherein the switch lock (2) has a pivotally mounted shift lever (4), a latch (5) and a Verklinkungsstelle (6), wherein the switching mechanism (2) is at least indirectly connected to the first switching contact (3) to control the movement of the first switching contact (3), characterized in that the switching device (1 ) has a covering device (50) which covers the Verklinkungsstelle (6) at least partially, preferably substantially completely, when the Schaltkon Clocks (3) are separated and the pawl (5) is out of engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle (6). 2. Switching device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the covering device (50) the Verklinkungsstelle (6) already during an opening operation of the switching contacts (3) at least partially, preferably substantially completely covers. 3. Switching device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the covering device (50) covers the Verklinkungsstelle (6) at least partially, preferably substantially completely, when the switching contacts (3) are separated and the pawl (5). in engagement with the Verklinkungsstelle (6). 4. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized 23 33316 / lh characterized in that the covering device (50) covering the Verklinkungsstelle (6) to at least 75%. 5. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that the covering device (50) is connected at least indirectly to the at least one first switching contact (3). 6. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that the at least one first switching contact (3) is connected at least indirectly with a lock spring (23), and in that the covering device (50) in the region of the lock spring (23 ) is arranged. 7. Switching device (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that the covering device (50) is arranged in such a way in the region of the lock spring (23) that the cover device (50) is moved during movement of the lock spring (23). 8. Switching device (1) according to claim 6 or 7, characterized in that the lock spring (23) on a control axis (51) for controlling the at least one first switching contact (3) is fixed, and that the covering device (50) on the control axis (51) is stored. 9. switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the covering device (50) is connected at least indirectly with the shift lever (4). 10. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that a lock spring (23) on the shift lever (5) is fixed, and in that the cover device (50) in the region of the lock spring (23) is arranged. 11. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 6 to 10, characterized in that the covering device (50) surrounds the lock spring (23) in regions at least in the directions of movement of the shift lever (4). 12. Switching device (1) one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that the covering device (50) has a cover extension (52), to cover the Verklinkungsstelle (6). 24 33316 / lh 13. Switching device (1) according to claim 12, characterized in that the covering device (50) has a U-shaped basic body (53), and in that the covering extension (52) is secured to a limb (54) of the U-shaped basic body (53). is arranged. 14. Switching device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that on a web (55) of the U-shaped base body (53) has a bearing opening (56) is arranged, in which the control axis (51) is arranged. 15. Switching device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 14, characterized in that the switching device (1) is designed as a circuit breaker or as a circuit breaker. LS, Gibler & Poth Patent Attorneys OG (Dr. F. Gibler or Dr. W. Poth)