CN217485320U - Position locking device for automatic transfer switch and electric equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

A position locking device for an automatic transfer switch and an electric apparatus are disclosed. The position locking device comprises a driving assembly, a position defining assembly and a locking assembly. The drive assembly includes a drive rod and a lock block. The driving rod extends along a first direction, is coupled with the automatic change-over switch and drives the automatic change-over switch to switch between different operation positions. The locking block is fixedly arranged on the driving rod. The position limiting assembly comprises a connecting piece and a limiting piece. The connecting piece extends along a first direction and is coupled with the driving rod. The limiting piece is coupled with the connecting piece and is provided with a positioning groove. The locking assembly comprises a fixing frame movably coupled with the limiting piece. The positioning piece is movably coupled with the fixed frame and is suitable for matching with the positioning groove. The locking head is fixedly coupled with the positioning piece, and the locking head is engaged with the locking block when the positioning piece corresponds to the positioning groove so as to lock the driving assembly. The position locking device for an automatic transfer switch of the embodiment of the present disclosure reliably realizes position locking of the automatic transfer switch with a simple structure.

Description

Position locking device for automatic transfer switch and electric equipment

Technical Field

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate generally to electrical protection devices and, more particularly, to a position locking device for an automatic transfer switch and an electrical device including the same.

Background

The bypass type dual power transfer switch is used to ensure uninterrupted power supply to important loads and generally comprises two main parts: automatic Transfer Switching Equipment (ATSE) and bypass switch (MTSE). ATSE is used for power conversion between power sources under normal conditions. When the ATSE requires maintenance, the MTSE will perform power conversion between power supplies instead of the ATSE. The bypass switch is typically fixedly mounted on the drawer frame, and the ATSE is movably mounted on the drawer frame by a swing-in and swing-out mechanism. The ATSE has at least two positions (a connection position and a test position) when it is swung in and out on the drawer. A position lock is required when the ATSE enters/exits the rack to ensure that the ATSE can stop at the correct position. In these positions the ATSE needs to be automatically locked to ensure reliability and safety of operation.

The existing locking device has the defects of complex structure, low reliability and the like. Accordingly, there is a need for an improved lockout device for an automatic transfer switch.

Disclosure of Invention

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a locking device to at least partially address the above and other potential problems of the prior art.

In a first aspect, embodiments of the present disclosure provide a position locking device. The position locking device includes: a drive assembly, a position defining assembly, and a locking assembly. The drive assembly includes a drive rod extending along a first direction, one end of the drive rod being adapted to couple with the automatic transfer switch and to drive the automatic transfer switch to switch between different operating positions. The driving assembly further comprises a locking block, and the locking block is fixedly arranged on the driving rod. The position defining assembly includes: connecting piece and locating part. The connecting member extends in a first direction and is coupled with the driving lever. The locating part is coupled with the connecting piece and is provided with a locating slot. The locking assembly comprises a fixing frame which is movably coupled with the limiting piece. The positioning piece is movably coupled with the fixed frame and is suitable for being matched with the positioning groove. The locking head is fixedly coupled with the positioning piece and is suitable for being engaged with the locking block when the positioning piece corresponds to the positioning groove so as to lock the driving assembly.

In this way, the automatic transfer switch can be accurately position-locked at a predetermined operating position by the manner in which the position restricting member cooperates with the locking member during the driving of the automatic transfer switch by the driving member. Thus, the position locking of the automatic transfer switch is realized with a simple structure, the reliability is enhanced, and the cost is reduced.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly further comprises a drive block threadably coupled to one end of the drive rod, and the drive block is adapted to couple with an automatic transfer switch. The driving rod is suitable for rotating around the axis of the driving rod, so that the driving block is driven to move along the direction of the first direction X, and the automatic change-over switch is driven to move.

In the above embodiment, the driving block is driven by the rotation of the driving rod, and then the automatic transfer switch is driven to realize the linear movement. In addition, the connection mode of the driving rod and the automatic change-over switch can be expanded through the driving block. This allows the automatic changeover switch to be driven in a simple and reliable manner.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly further comprises a range-defining member rotatably coupled with the drive rod. The range limiting piece comprises a first limiting part and a second limiting part. The second limiting part and the first limiting part are arranged at intervals along the first direction, and the distance between the first limiting part and the second limiting part limits the moving range of the driving block in the first direction; and a connecting portion connecting the first and second limiting portions.

In the above-described embodiment, by providing the range restricting member, the driving range of the driving lever can be restricted, thereby preventing the driving lever from driving the automatic transfer switch away from the predetermined operation position. Thereby enhancing security.

In some embodiments, the locking block includes a body portion and a protrusion. The body portion has a first planar surface adapted to engage a locking surface of the locking head. The boss projects from the body portion and is adapted to limit rotation of the lock block relative to the lock head.

In the above embodiment, the locking of the drive assembly, that is, the automatic transfer switch, is achieved by the first flat surface of the body engaging the locking surface of the locking head and by the boss restricting rotation of the locking block relative to the locking head.

In some embodiments, the limiter comprises a first plate and a second plate. The first plate extends along a first direction X, and a sliding groove is disposed on the first plate and slidably coupled to the fixing member. The second plate extends along the first direction, is adjacent to the first plate, and is perpendicular to the first plate. The second plate is provided with a positioning groove which is suitable for being matched with the locking head when being moved to a position corresponding to the locking head so as to limit the locking position of the automatic change-over switch.

In the above embodiment, the positioning groove provided on the limiting member is matched with the positioning head, and when the positioning head and the positioning head are aligned, the locking head falls down simultaneously along with the falling of the positioning head to be engaged with the locking block, so as to prevent the further rotation of the driving rod. The position locking of the automatic transfer switch is thus achieved in a simple and reliable manner.

In some embodiments, the retaining member further includes a third plate disposed on the opposite side of the first plate from the second plate along the first direction, and a protrusion corresponding to the positioning groove on the second plate is disposed at an edge of the third plate.

In the above embodiments, the positioning head can interact with the positioning head by providing a protrusion at the edge of the third plate corresponding to the positioning slot on the second plate.

In some embodiments, the positioning member includes a positioning body, a first positioning head, a supporting portion, and a coupling portion. The positioning body is coupled to the fixing frame. The first positioning head comprises a conical head, and the conical surface of the conical head is suitable for interacting with the protruding part under the pushing of the elastic force of the first elastic piece. One end of the supporting part is fixedly connected with the conical head, and the other end of the supporting part is hinged with the second positioning head through a hinge shaft. The coupling part is coupled to the supporting part and coupled to the positioning body through the first elastic piece. The second positioning head extends from the positioning body towards the limiting piece, and the second positioning head is suitable for penetrating through the positioning groove when the second positioning head is aligned with the positioning groove, so that the locking head is jointed with the locking block.

In the above embodiment, the tapered surface of the tapered head is pushed by the elastic force of the first elastic member to interact with the protrusion, so that the position and state of the positioning head can be changed, and the position of the automatic transfer switch can be indicated to an operator.

In some embodiments, the positioning member includes a positioning body and a positioning head. The positioning body is movably coupled with the fixing frame; the positioning head is coupled with the positioning body and is suitable for passing through the positioning groove when the positioning head is aligned with the positioning groove so as to enable the locking head to be engaged with the locking block.

In the above embodiment, when the positioning head is aligned with the positioning groove, the positioning head falls down and passes through the positioning groove, so that the locking head is coupled with the locking block, that is, the positioning head and the positioning groove are matched in shape and position, so as to lock the driving rod, thereby realizing the position locking function.

In some embodiments, the alignment head has a tapered end adapted to interact with the rim of the alignment slot to cause the alignment head to move progressively into and out of the alignment slot.

In the above embodiment, the gradually reduced end of the positioning head interacts with the edge of the positioning slot to gradually move the positioning head into and out of the positioning slot, so that on the one hand, the impact between the positioning head and the positioning slot can be reduced, and on the other hand, the position of the automatic transfer switch can be determined by the gradually moving state of the positioning head.

In some embodiments, the locking assembly further comprises a retaining plate and a locking head coupling. The fixing plate is fixedly coupled to the locking head and the positioning member. A locking head coupling is adapted to movably couple the locking head to the fixation plate.

In the above embodiment, by coupling the fixing plate with the locking head and the positioning member so that they move together, when the locking head is fitted with the positioning groove, engagement of the locking head with the locking block is achieved, thereby achieving position locking.

In some embodiments, the locking coupling includes a bushing and a return spring. The shaft sleeve is arranged in the holes of the two opposite plates of the fixing frame through elastic check rings, and the locking head is suitable for moving in the shaft sleeve along the axial direction of the shaft sleeve. The reset spring is arranged on the locking head, the first end of the reset spring is abutted against the first side, back to the locking surface of the locking head, of the fixing plate, and the second end of the reset spring is abutted against one end, facing to the first side of the fixing plate, of the shaft sleeve.

In the above embodiment, the sleeve is provided, and the lock head can be freely moved in the sleeve. In addition, through the return spring, enough pushing force can be provided for the locking head, and the locking head is enabled to be fully engaged with the locking block, so that the driving assembly is locked.

In some embodiments, the position locking device further comprises: and a switching lever coupled with the fixing plate, the switching lever being adapted to push the locking head into and out of engagement with the locking block by moving the position.

In the above embodiment, by providing the switching lever, it is possible to facilitate the operator to manually unlock the driving assembly, thereby switching the position of the automatic transfer switch.

In some embodiments, the locking assembly further includes a guide plate coupled to one side of the fixing frame and extending to both sides of the fixing plate, adapted to guide a moving direction of the fixing plate.

In the above embodiments, by providing the guide plate, the direction in which the fixing plate and the locking head move can be defined.

In some embodiments, the position locking device further comprises an interlock mechanism disposed inside the operation panel of the automatic transfer switch and adapted to allow operation of the position locking device when in the first position and to prohibit operation of the position locking device when in the second position.

In the above embodiment, by providing the interlock mechanism, it is ensured that only one of the automatic transfer switch and the bypass switch is allowed to be operated at a certain time, and thus damage due to an erroneous operation can be prevented.

In some embodiments, the interlock mechanism includes a first return spring and a first blocking tab. The first end of the first return spring is fixedly connected to the inner side of the operation panel; the first blocking piece is arranged on the inner side of the operation panel, and one end of the first blocking piece is coupled with the second end of the first return spring; the first blocking piece shields the element on the operation panel for operating the driving component when in the first position, and the first blocking piece exposes the element on the panel for operating the driving component when in the second position.

In the above embodiment, by coupling the first return spring with the first blocking piece and cooperating with the switching lever, it is possible to conveniently realize prohibition or permission of operation of the driving assembly.

In some embodiments, the position locking device further comprises a second return spring and a second blocking piece. The first end of the second return spring is fixedly connected to the inner side of the operation panel. The second stop piece is arranged on the inner side of the operation panel, and one end of the second stop piece is coupled with the second end of the second return spring; the second blocking piece is coupled with the first blocking piece and is suitable for moving along with the first blocking piece so as to expose the element for operating the bypass switch on the operation panel when the first blocking piece is in the first position and shield the element for operating the bypass switch on the operation panel when the first blocking piece is in the second position.

In the above embodiment, the prohibition or permission of the operation of the bypass switch can be conveniently realized by the second return spring being coupled with the second blocking piece and cooperating with the switching lever.

In some embodiments, the position locking device further comprises a fixing rod and a torsion spring. The fixed rod is coupled with the fixed plate and the switching rod. The torsion spring is arranged on the fixed rod and is suitable for changing the position of the switching rod when the locking block is separated from the locking head and is not aligned any more.

In the above embodiment, by providing the torsion spring, it is possible to change the position of the switching lever when the driving lever continues to be driven after the locking block is separated from the locking head, and it is possible for the operator to know that the automatic transfer switch has left the locking position and the locking device is in the unlocked state.

In some embodiments, the switch lever is adapted to be disposed in a switch slot of an operation panel of the automatic transfer switch, the switch slot is provided with a concave portion at a first position, and the torsion spring is adapted to pull the switch lever from the concave portion to a second position when a height of the switch lever is higher than a highest point of the concave portion during interaction between the positioning member and the positioning slot, the second position indicating that the positioning member and the locking block are in a separated state.

In the above-described embodiment, by providing the recess in the switching groove, the position of the switching lever is changed by the torsion spring based on the locked or unlocked state of the locking head and the locking block, thereby providing the operator with intuitive information on the state of the position locking device.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is also provided an electrical apparatus including the aforementioned position locking device and the automatic transfer switch.

As will be appreciated from the following description, embodiments of the present disclosure provide an improved position lockout device for an automatic transfer switch. The position locking device can reliably realize the position locking of the automatic transfer switch with a simple structure.

This summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in a simplified form that are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the disclosure, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the disclosure.

Drawings

Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a position locking device (hereinafter referred to as a position locking device) for an automatic transfer switch according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an operator panel mounted position lock according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a rack-mounted position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 4 illustrates a rear perspective view of the operator panel mounted position lock according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 5 shows a side view of the operator panel mounted position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a partial front perspective view of a position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates a partial rear perspective view of a position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of a limiter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of a locking block according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 illustrates another perspective view of a locking block according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a side view of a locking block engaged with a locking head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12 illustrates a side view of a lock block separated from a lock head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 illustrates a front view of a spacer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 illustrates a front side perspective view of a drive block and range limiting member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15 illustrates a rear perspective view of a drive block and range-defining member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

figure 16 illustrates a perspective view of a first barrier tab according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 17 shows a schematic view of a switch lever in a first position in a switch slot according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18 shows a schematic view of a switch lever in a second position in a switch slot according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 shows a schematic view of a switch lever located at a third position in a switch slot according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 shows a perspective view of a position locking device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 shows a perspective view of a portion of a position locking device mounted to an operator panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 22 shows another perspective view of a portion of a position locking device mounted to an operator panel according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

figure 23 shows a perspective view of a locking assembly according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 24 illustrates another perspective view of a locking assembly according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

figure 25 illustrates a perspective view of a first positioning head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 illustrates a rear perspective view of a first positioning head according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 illustrates a partial perspective view of a positioning member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 28 illustrates a partial rear perspective view of a spacer according to one embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 illustrates a front perspective view of a limiter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure; and

figure 30 illustrates a rear perspective view of a limiter according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

Like or corresponding reference characters designate like or corresponding parts throughout the several views.

Detailed Description

The principles of the present disclosure will be described with reference to various exemplary embodiments shown in the drawings. It should be understood that these examples are described merely to enable those skilled in the art to better understand and further implement the present disclosure, and are not intended to limit the scope of the present disclosure in any way. It should be noted that where feasible, similar or identical reference numerals may be used in the figures and that similar or identical reference numerals may indicate similar or identical functions. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following description that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles of the disclosure described herein.

The term "include" and variations thereof as used herein is meant to be inclusive in an open-ended manner, i.e., "including but not limited to". Unless specifically stated otherwise, the term "or" means "and/or". The term "based on" means "based at least in part on". The terms "one example embodiment" and "one embodiment" mean "at least one example embodiment". The term "another embodiment" means "at least one additional embodiment". The terms "first," "second," and the like may refer to different or the same object.

As mentioned above, the known locking devices have the disadvantages of complex structure, low reliability, etc. One known locking device for an automatic transfer switch is to achieve automatic locking of a dual power transfer switch when the dual power transfer switch reaches a predetermined position during shaking in and out by means of electrical and mechanical combination. The device can not realize the locking function under the condition that the electrical part of the device is in fault, so that hidden danger exists. Another known locking device for an automatic transfer switch is to lock by means of a link cooperating with a guide, a ratchet, a pawl, etc., and the structure is relatively complicated. Therefore, there is a need for an improved solution to at least some of the above mentioned drawbacks.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide improved position locking devices for automatic transfer switches. In some embodiments of the present disclosure, a position locking device includes a drive assembly, a position defining assembly, and a locking assembly. The drive assembly includes a drive rod extending along a first direction, one end of the drive rod being adapted to couple with the automatic transfer switch and to drive the automatic transfer switch to switch between different operating positions. The driving assembly further comprises a locking block, and the locking block is fixedly arranged on the driving rod. The position limiting assembly comprises a connecting piece and a limiting piece. The connecting member extends in a first direction and is coupled with the driving lever. The locating part is coupled with the connecting piece and is provided with a locating slot. The locking assembly comprises a fixed frame which is movably coupled with the limiting piece. The positioning piece is movably coupled with the fixed frame and is suitable for being matched with the positioning groove. The locking head is fixedly coupled with the positioning piece and is suitable for being engaged with the locking block when the positioning piece corresponds to the positioning groove so as to lock the driving assembly. According to the scheme of the embodiment of the disclosure, the position of the automatic transfer switch can be locked by a simple structure in a mode that the position limiting component is matched with the locking component, so that the reliability is enhanced, and the cost is reduced.

A position locking device according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to fig. 1 to 30. It should be understood that the spirit and principles of the present disclosure are illustrated in the following embodiments by way of example of position locking devices comprising exemplary structures, shapes, however, the scope of the present disclosure is not limited thereto and may include position locking devices having other structures, shapes.

A position locking device of one embodiment of the present disclosure is described first with reference to fig. 1 to 7. Fig. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a position locking device (hereinafter, referred to as a position locking device) for an automatic transfer switch according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 2 illustrates a perspective view of an operation panel mounted position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a rack-mounted position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 4 illustrates a rear perspective view of the position locking device mounted to the operation panel according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 shows a side view of the operator panel mounted position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 illustrates a partial front perspective view of a position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 illustrates a partial rear perspective view of a position locking device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 1, the position locking device 100 may generally include a drive assembly 10, a position defining assembly 20, and a locking assembly 30. Also shown in fig. 1 is ATSE link 206 to which position locking device 100 is connected, with connecting members 212 provided at both ends of ATSE link 206. The ATSE linkage 206 may be coupled to the ATSE via a coupling member 212 to move the ATSE upon actuation of the drive assembly 10.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 10 may include a drive rod 102, the drive rod 102 extending along the first direction X. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, one end of the driving rod 102 is coupled to a driving block 182, and the automatic transfer switch is driven by the driving block 182. The embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and one end of the driving rod 102 may be directly coupled to the automatic transfer switch without passing through the driving block 182. In this way, the automatic transfer switch is driven by the drive lever 102 to switch between different operating positions. For example, the automatic transfer switch is switched from the connection position to the test position, and from the test position to the isolation position, and vice versa. The other end of the drive rod 102 may be coupled to a mount 108 of the lock assembly 30 (see fig. 5). Further, a driving rod head 160 is provided on the other end of the driving rod 102. The drive rod head 160 is provided with structure that facilitates rotation of the drive rod 102. In some embodiments, the drive assembly 10 may further include a lock block 104, the lock block 104 being fixedly disposed on the drive rod 102 and moving with the drive rod 102. In some embodiments, the driving rod 102 rotates around its axis to drive the driving block 182 to move along the first direction X, so as to drive the automatic transfer switch to move. The lock block 104 rotates as the drive rod 102 rotates. The structure of the driving assembly of the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above structure, but may be variously changed.

In some embodiments, the locking block 104 may include a body portion 122 and a raised portion 124. The locking block 104 is further described below in conjunction with fig. 9 and 10. Figure 9 illustrates a perspective view of the lock block 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 illustrates another perspective view of the lock block 104 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in fig. 10, the body portion 122 has a first planar surface 123, the first planar surface 123 being adapted to engage a locking surface 224 (shown in fig. 12) of the locking head 106. A boss 124 protrudes from the body portion 122, and the boss 124 is adapted to limit rotation of the lock block 104 relative to the lock head 106. As shown in fig. 10, the side of the convex portion 124 facing the first plane 123 has a steep plane. If this steep surface encounters the locking head 106 during rotation of the drive rod 102, the locking block 104 will be blocked and the drive rod 102 will not continue to rotate. In this way, locking of the drive assembly 10, i.e. locking of the automatic transfer switch, is achieved by the first planar face 123 of the body engaging the locking face of the locking head 106 and by the projection 124 restricting rotation of the locking block 104 relative to the locking head 106.

The engagement (locking) and disengagement (unlocking) of the locking block 104 and the locking head 106 will be further described with reference to fig. 11 and 12. As shown in fig. 11, the locking surface of the locking head 106 engages the first flat surface 123 of the locking block 104. The locking head 106 is able to remain in tight engagement with the locking block 104 due to its own weight and the weight of the securing plate 110 (see fig. 3) and the positioning member 114 fixedly coupled to the locking head 106, in addition to the spring force of the return spring 118. Thereby preventing further rotation of the locking head 106. Even if the operator applies an excessive driving force on the drive lever 102, causing the drive lever 102 to continue to rotate by an angle such that another plane of the locking head 106 adjacent to the first plane 123 engages the locking surface 224 of the locking head 106, thereafter, if the drive lever 102 continues to rotate, the locking head 106 will abut against the steep plane of the boss 124. At this time, the driving rod 102 cannot be rotated further because it is blocked by the locking head 106 in the rotation direction. That is, even if the operator applies enough rotation to overcome the weight of the locking head 106 and its associated components and the spring force of the spring, the applied tangential force of the locking head 106 itself (typically made of metal, such as steel) cannot be overcome. As shown in fig. 12, the locking surface of the locking head 106 is separated from the first plane 123 of the locking block 104, and at this time, the driving rod 102 can rotate, so as to drive the automatic transfer switch to switch the positions. For example from the working position to the testing position or further to the isolation position.

In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 1 and 2, the drive assembly 10 may further include a drive block 182. The drive block 182 may be threadably coupled to one end of the drive rod 102. The middle of the drive block 182 may be threaded. One end of the drive rod 102 may be threaded, whereby the drive rod 102 and the drive block 182 may be threadably coupled together. The end of the drive block 182 may further be provided with a crank structure 186, the crank structure 186 being adapted to be coupled with an automatic transfer switch. In some embodiments, the driving rod 102 can rotate around its own axis, and the rotation of the driving rod 102 is converted into a linear motion of the driving block 182 via the screw threads, so as to drive the driving block 182 to move along the first direction, i.e., the X direction, and thus drive the automatic transfer switch to move.

In some embodiments, the drive assembly 10 may further include a range limiting member 180, and the range limiting member 180 may be rotatably coupled to the drive rod 102. The range limiting member 180 is further described below in conjunction with fig. 1, 2, and 14 and 15. FIG. 14 illustrates a front side perspective view of a drive block 182 and a range limiting member 180 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 15 illustrates a rear perspective view of the drive block 182 and range limiting member 180 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. One end of the range limiting member 180 may be provided with a hole through which the driving rod 102 may pass. In some embodiments, the drive rod 102 may be coupled to the linkage 188 via a connection sleeve 214 (fig. 1). The linkage 188 is coupled to the drive block 182. Thereby extending the length of the drive rod 102 and facilitating separation of the drive rod 102 from the drive block 182. In some embodiments, the range limiting member 180 includes a first limiting portion 210 and a second limiting portion 216. The second position-limiting portion 216 and the first position-limiting portion 210 are spaced apart along the first direction, and the distance between the first position-limiting portion 210 and the second position-limiting portion 216 defines the moving range of the driving block 182 in the first direction. For example, the automatic transfer switch may be located at the operating position when the driving block 182 is located at a position within the range limiting member 180 adjacent to the first position limiting portion 210. When the driving block 182 is located within the range limiting member 180 near the second position limiting portion 216, the automatic transfer switch may be located at the isolation position. The range limiting member 180 can further include a connecting portion 208 connecting the first position limiting portion 210 and the second position limiting portion 216.

In this way, by providing the range restricting member 180, the driving range of the driving lever 102 can be restricted, thereby avoiding the driving lever 102 from driving the automatic transfer switch out of the predetermined operating range. Thereby enhancing the safety of the operation of the automatic transfer switch.

With continued reference to fig. 1. In some embodiments, as depicted in FIG. 1, the position defining assembly 20 may include a connecting member 113 and a stop member 25. The link 113 extends in a first direction and is coupled with the driving lever 102. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 2, the link 113 may be connected to the drive rod 102 by a connecting rod 184. The limiting member 25 is coupled to the connecting member 113, and a positioning groove 126 is disposed on the limiting member 25, as shown in fig. 6. This is further explained below.

The stopper 25 is further described below with reference to fig. 8. Fig. 8 shows a perspective view of a limiting member 25 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the retaining member 25 may include a first plate 112 and a second plate 128. The first plate 112 extends along the first direction X, and a sliding groove 162 is disposed on the first plate 112, wherein the sliding groove 162 is slidably coupled to the fixing member 232. The securing member 232 may be coupled to the securing bracket 108 and may also be coupled to a frame, such as the frame 146, for securing the automatic transfer switch. As the driving rod 102 drives the driving block 182, the driving block 182 drives the connecting rod 184 and the first plate 112, and the sliding slot 162 slides relative to the fixing member 232. The second plate 128 extends along the first direction, is contiguous with the first plate 112, and is perpendicular to the first plate 112. The second plate 128 may be provided with an detent 126, the detent 126 adapted to cooperate with the locking head 106 when moved to a position corresponding to the locking head 106 to define a locked position 198 of the automatic transfer switch. The edge of the detent 126 has a detent ramp 222 that facilitates the gradual movement in and out of the detent head 138. As shown in fig. 8, the positioning grooves 126 from left to right may correspond to a connection position (working position), a test position, and an isolation position of the automatic transfer switch, respectively. That is, when the positioning head 138 is aligned with the positioning slot 126 corresponding to the connected position, the locking head 106 will drop into engagement with the locking block 104, thereby locking the automatic transfer switch into the connected position. When the alignment head 138 is aligned with the alignment slot 126 corresponding to the test position, the locking head 106 will drop into engagement with the locking block 104, thereby locking the automatic transfer switch into the test position. When the positioning head 138 is aligned with the positioning slot 126 corresponding to the isolating position, the positioning head 138 will drop into engagement with the locking block 104, thereby locking the automatic transfer switch into the isolating position. The structure of the positioning member of the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above structure, but may be variously changed.

In the above embodiment, by the positioning groove 126 provided on the stopper 25 cooperating with the positioning head 138, when the positions of the positioning head 138 are aligned, the positioning head 138 simultaneously falls down to engage to the lock block 104 as the positioning head 138 falls down, thereby preventing further rotation of the drive lever 102. This allows the position of the automatic transfer switch to be locked in a simple and reliable manner.

The description continues with reference to fig. 3. Also shown in fig. 3 is frame 146, to which frame 146 locking assembly 30 is coupled. In some embodiments, the positioning member 114 includes a positioning body 136 and a positioning head 138. The positioning body 136 may be movably coupled with the fixing frame 108. As shown in fig. 3, the positioning head 138 is coupled to the positioning body 136. In some embodiments, the positioning head 138 may be an integral component of the positioning body 136. In some embodiments, the positioning head 138 may be an assembly of separate components that are fixedly coupled to the positioning body 136. Positioning head 138 may pass through positioning slot 126 when aligned with positioning slot 126 to engage locking head 106 with locking block 104.

In the above-described embodiment, engagement of the locking head 106 with the locking block 104 is accomplished by dropping the positioning head 138 through the positioning slot 126 when aligned with the positioning slot 126. In other words, the positioning head 138 cooperates with the positioning groove 126 in shape and position to lock the driving rod 102, i.e., to lock the position of the automatic transfer switch.

The positioning member 114 is further described with further reference to fig. 13. Figure 13 illustrates a front view of a positioning member 114 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 13, the positioning head 138 may have an end portion that tapers in size. As shown in fig. 13, the end of the positioning head 138 has a triangular shape in cross-section. Embodiments of the present disclosure are not limited thereto, and the end shape may also be, for example, an ellipsoid, a sphere, a cone, or other shape having a gradual surface. The end portion is adapted to interact with the edge of the detent 126, for example, by the detent head 138 gradually moving into and out of the detent 126 as urged by the edge of the detent 126.

In the above embodiment, the gradually reduced size of the positioning head 138 interacts with the edge of the positioning slot 126, so that the positioning head 138 gradually moves into or out of the positioning slot 126, which on the one hand reduces the impact between the positioning head 138 and the positioning slot 126 and on the other hand helps to determine the position of the automatic transfer switch by the gradual movement of the positioning head 138.

In some embodiments, the locking assembly 30 may include a fixing frame 108, and the fixing frame 108 is movably coupled with the limiting member 25. In other words, the limiting member 25 can move relative to the fixing frame 108, for example, the limiting member 25 can move in the direction of gravity relative to the fixing frame 108. In some embodiments, as best shown in fig. 3 and 7, the mounting bracket 108 may be formed from a single plate that is bent multiple times. The fixture 108 may primarily divide the space into two regions. As shown in fig. 3, a hole is provided in the center of the plate in the lower region, and one end of the driving rod 102 is coupled to the hole. The locking block 104 on the drive rod 102 is located in this lower region. The upper region is mainly provided with the positioning element 114 and the locking head 106. In some embodiments, the positioning element 114 is movably coupled with the fixing frame 108, and the positioning element 114 is adapted to cooperate with the positioning slot 126. For example, the positioning member 114 has a shape and size corresponding to the shape and size of the positioning slot 126 so as to fit into the positioning slot 126 or through the positioning slot 126. In some embodiments, the locking head 106 is fixedly coupled with the positioning member 114, and the locking head 106 is adapted to engage with the locking block 104 to lock the drive assembly 10 when the positioning member 114 corresponds in position to the positioning slot 126 and moves into the positioning slot 126. The structure of the locking assembly of the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited to the above structure, but may be variously modified.

In this way, the automatic transfer switch can be position-locked accurately at a predetermined operating position by the manner in which the position defining member 20 cooperates with the locking member 30 during the driving of the automatic transfer switch by the driving member 10. Thus, the position locking of the automatic transfer switch is realized with a simple structure, the reliability is enhanced, and the cost is reduced.

The description continues with reference to fig. 3. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 3, the locking assembly 30 further includes a retaining plate 110 and a locking coupling. The fixing plate 110 is fixedly coupled to the locking head 106 and the positioning member 114, in other words, the locking head 106 and the positioning member 114 are fixed to the fixing plate 110. In some embodiments, the locking head 106 may be welded to the fixation plate 110. In some embodiments, the locking head 106 may be integrally formed with the fixation plate 110. In some embodiments, the locking head 106 may be movably coupled to the fixation plate 110 by a locking head coupling. In some embodiments, the locking coupling may include a bushing 120 and a return spring 118. The bosses 120 are disposed in the openings of the opposing plates of the mounting bracket 108 by circlips. The locking head 106 is adapted to move within the hub 120 in an axial direction of the hub 120. A return spring 118 is arranged on the locking head 106, a first end of the return spring 118 abutting against a first side of the fixing plate 110 facing away from the locking surface of the locking head 106, and a second end of the return spring 118 abutting against an end of the bushing 120 facing the first side of the fixing plate 110. The above-described locking-head coupling is only one example, and the present disclosure is not limited thereto, and actually, the locking-head coupling may be implemented in various ways. For example, the fixing of the bushing 120 and the arrangement of the return spring 118 can be achieved in various ways.

In the above embodiment, the fixing plate 110 is coupled with the locking head 106 and the positioning member 114, so that the locking head 106 and the positioning member 114 move together. When locking head 106 is mated with detent 126, locking head 106 engages locking block 104, thereby achieving a positional lock. By providing the boss 120, the lock head 106 can move freely inside the boss 120. In addition, the return spring 118 can provide sufficient thrust to the locking head 106 to ensure that both the locking head 106 and the locking block 104 are sufficiently compressed to lock the drive assembly 10.

In some embodiments, the mounting bracket 108 may have an aperture therein, and the other end of the drive rod 102 may be coupled within the aperture. The driving rod 102 passes through a hole in the holder 108 and is coupled to the holder 108.

Referring again to fig. 1 and 3, as shown in fig. 1 and 3, the position locking device 100 may further include a switch lever 116. A switch lever 116 is coupled to the fixed plate 110, the switch lever 116 being movable to urge the locking head 106 into and out of engagement with the locking block 104. In the above embodiment, the switching lever 116 is provided to facilitate the operator to manually unlock the driving assembly 10, so that the automatic transfer switch is driven by the driving assembly 10 to switch the position thereof.

In some embodiments, the locking assembly 30 further includes a guide plate 164. The guide plate 164 may be coupled to one side of the fixing frame 108 and extend to both sides of the fixing plate 110. The guide plate 164 guides the moving direction of the fixing plate 110. In the above embodiment, by providing the guide plate 164, the fixing plate 110 can be moved along the inner side edge of the guide plate 164, thereby defining the direction in which the fixing plate 110 and the locking head 106 are moved.

In some embodiments, the position locking device 100 further comprises an interlocking mechanism. The interlock mechanism is provided inside the operation panel 152 of the automatic transfer switch. When the interlock mechanism is in the first position, operation of the position locking device 100 is permitted. For example, when the interlock mechanism is in the first position, a button that operates the position locking device 100 may be exposed. In the second position, operation of the position lock device 100 is inhibited. For example, when the interlock mechanism is in the second position, a button that operates the position locking device 100 may be shielded.

In the above embodiment, by providing the interlock mechanism, it is ensured that only one of the automatic transfer switch and the bypass switch is allowed to be operated at a certain time, and thus damage due to erroneous operation can be prevented.

The interlock mechanism is further described below in conjunction with fig. 4. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 4, the interlock mechanism includes a first return spring 156 and a first stop tab 129. A first end of the first return spring 156 is fixedly connected to the inside of the operation panel 152. The first blocking piece 129 is disposed inside the operation panel 152, and one end of the first blocking piece 129 is coupled with a second end of the first return spring 156. The first blocking tab 129 in the first position blocks elements of the operating panel 152 for operating the drive assembly 10 and the first blocking tab 129 in the second position uncovers elements of the panel for operating the drive assembly 10.

The first barrier tab 129 is further described below in conjunction with fig. 16. As shown in fig. 16, a square hole 226 is provided in the first blocking piece 129. The shape of the hole provided in the first barrier 129 of the embodiment of the present disclosure is not limited thereto, but may be other shapes. The square hole 226 is adapted to cooperate with a slide block on the operation panel 152 when the first blocking piece 129 is operated. The first blocking piece 129 has a blocking portion 150 at one end extending from the body portion 122. The blocking portion 150 extends from the body of the first blocking piece 129 and is perpendicular to the body. The blocking portion 150 is adapted to block a button for operating the automatic transfer switch on the operation panel 152 when the first blocking piece 129 is mounted on the operation panel 152. When the first blocking piece 129 moves upward, the blocking portion 150 moves upward, thereby exposing a button for operating the automatic transfer switch on the operation panel 152. For example, the position locking device 100 is allowed to operate to switch the locking position 198 of the automatic transfer switch.

In the above embodiment, the prohibition or permission of the operation of the driving assembly 10 can be conveniently realized by the first return spring 156 coupled with the first blocking piece 129 and cooperating with the switching lever 116.

In some embodiments, as shown in FIG. 4, the position locking device 100 further includes a second return spring 158 and a second stop tab 154. A first end of the second return spring 158 is fixedly connected to an inner side of the operation panel 152, for example, a screw, a pin, etc. provided on the inner side of the operation panel 152. The second blocking piece 154 is disposed inside the operation panel 152, and one end of the second blocking piece 154 is coupled with a second end of a second return spring 158. The second blocking piece 154 is coupled to the first blocking piece 129 and is movable with the first blocking piece 129 to expose the elements on the operation panel 152 for operating the bypass switch when the first blocking piece 129 is in the first position (e.g., an initial position of the first blocking piece 129 in fig. 4) and to shield the elements on the operation panel 152 for operating the bypass switch when the first blocking piece 129 is in the second position (e.g., a position after the first blocking piece 129 is moved upward in fig. 4).

In the above embodiment, the prohibition or permission of the operation of the bypass switch can be conveniently realized by the second return spring 158 being coupled with the second blocking piece 154 and cooperating with the switching lever 116.

In some embodiments, the position locking device further includes a fixation rod 236 and a torsion spring 234. As shown in fig. 3, the fixing rod 236 is coupled to the fixing plate 110, and the switching rod 116 is coupled to the fixing rod 236. In operation, the fixing plate 110 is simultaneously moved upward by moving the operating lever 142 upward. The torsion spring 234 is disposed on the fixing lever 236. One end of the torsion spring 234 may be fixed to the fixing rod 236 and may also abut against one side of the fixing frame 108. The torsion spring 234 is configured to change the position of the switch lever 116 when the lock block 104 is separated from the lock head 106 and is no longer aligned. For example, the switch lever 116 is pulled or pushed from the first position to the second position.

In the above embodiment, the torsion spring 234 is provided to change the position of the switching lever 116 when the driving lever 102 continues to be driven after the locking block 104 is separated from the locking head 106. In this manner, the operator is enabled to know that the automatic transfer switch has left the latched position 198 and that the lockout device 100 is in the unlocked state.

In some embodiments, the switch lever 116 is adapted to be disposed in a switch slot 200 of the operating panel 152 of the automatic transfer switch, as shown in fig. 2. A recess 238 (fig. 17) is provided in the switching slot 200 at the first position. In some embodiments, when the switch slot 200 is located at the first position, the torsion spring 234 can pull the switch link 116 from the recess 238 to the second position when the switch link 116 is located at a position higher than the highest point of the recess 238 during the interaction between the positioning member 114 and the positioning slot 126, and the second position indicates that the positioning member 114 is separated from the locking block 104.

The position of the switch lever 116 in the switch slot 200 is further described below with reference to fig. 17, 18 and 19. Fig. 17 shows a schematic view of the switch lever 116 in a first position in the switch slot 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 18 shows a schematic view of the switch lever 116 in a second position in the switch slot 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 19 shows a schematic view of the switch lever 116 located at a third position in the switch slot 200 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The switch lever 116 is shown in fig. 17 in a first position in the switch slot 200, such as the locked position 198. This position indicates that the automatic transfer switch is in the locked state. As shown in fig. 18, the switch lever 116 is in a second position, e.g., the release position 202, in the switch slot 200. This position indicates that the automatic transfer switch is in the release state (between the locked state and the unlocked state). The switch lever 116 is in a third position, e.g., an unlocked position, in the switch slot 200 as shown in fig. 19. This position indicates that the automatic transfer switch is in the unlocked state.

In the above embodiment, by providing the recess 238 in the switching groove, the position of the switching lever 116 is changed by the torsion spring 234 based on the locked or unlocked state of the locking head 106 and the locking block 104, thereby providing the operator with intuitive information about the state of the position locking device 100.

Returning to fig. 2, fig. 2 also shows the operation panel 152 and the operation lever 142. The operation panel 152 is provided with an automatic/manual changeover switch 220. The automatic/manual switch 220 may set the operation status of the entire device, for example, when switching to the automatic position, the ATSE will automatically switch the power source according to the power supply capability of the power source. When the switch is switched to the manual state, the MTSE switch needs to be manually controlled to switch on and off. The operating lever 142 is adapted to operate the drive lever 102. The lever 142 includes a crossbar 144 and a crossbar 148. The operating rod head 194 (see fig. 22) of the side rail 148 is adapted to be inserted into the drive rod head 160 to rotate the drive rod 102.

The operation of the position locking device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to fig. 1 to 3.

For example, initially the locking device 100 locks the automatic transfer switch in the connected position, the automatic transfer switch is now switched to the test position. First, the stopper 150 (which is a part of the first stopper 129) is moved upward to unlock a hole or a button for operating ATSE, and the operating lever 142 is inserted into the driving lever head 160. By moving the blocking portion 150 upward, the blocking portion 150 drives the second blocking piece 154 to slide upward to block the button or hole for operating the MTST. After insertion of the lever 142, the first and second stop tabs 129, 154 will remain in place. Next, the position of the switch lever 116 is moved upward from the lock position 198 (fig. 17) to the release position 202 (fig. 18). Since the recess 238 is provided at the release position 202, the elastic force of the return spring 118 and the weight of the parts push the switching lever 116 to be held at its position. During the upward movement of the switch lever 116, the positioning head 138 is caused to move upward together. Then, the operation lever 142 is rotated counterclockwise to drive the automatic transfer switch to move forward, i.e., toward the operation panel 152. In the process, when the positioning head 138 is removed from the positioning slot 126, the switching lever 116 is simultaneously moved upward. When the height of the switch lever 116 is higher than the highest point of the recess 170, the torsion spring 234 will drive the switch lever 116 to move rightward to the unlock position. When the positioning head 138 reaches the positioning slot 126 corresponding to the testing position, the return spring 118 lowers the positioning head 138 and the switch lever 116 to the locking position 198 (fig. 19). The locking head 106 thus engages the locking block 104 to lock the position of the automatic transfer switch. The operating lever 142 is pulled out from the driving rod head 160. The first and second blocking pieces 129 and 154 are moved downward by the first and second return springs 156 and 158. The aperture for operating the drive assembly 10 is then blocked and the aperture for operating the MTSE is unlocked. The switching process of ATSE to other locations is similar.

According to the scheme of the embodiment of the disclosure, the position of the automatic transfer switch can be locked by a simple structure in a mode that the position limiting assembly 20 is matched with the locking assembly 30, so that the reliability is enhanced, and the cost is reduced.

A position locking device 100 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to fig. 20 to 30. A position locking device 100 according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure is first described with reference to fig. 20 to 24. Fig. 20 shows a perspective view of a position locking device 100 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 21 shows a perspective view of a portion of the position locking device 100 mounted to the operation panel 152 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 22 shows another perspective view of a portion of the position locking device 100 mounted to the operator panel 152 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 23 illustrates a perspective view of a locking assembly 30 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 24 illustrates another perspective view of a locking assembly 30 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

In the embodiment shown in fig. 20, the difference from the position locking device 100 shown in the previous figures is mainly that the position limiting member 25 in the position limiting assembly 20 and the positioning member 114 in the locking assembly 30 are different. Therefore, in order to simplify the description process, the same structure as before will not be described repeatedly or will be described simply.

In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 20 and 23, the limiting member 25 further comprises a third plate 134. Disposed at the opposite side of the first plate 112 from the second plate 128 in the first direction, and a protrusion corresponding to the seating groove 126 on the second plate 128 is provided at an edge of the third plate 134. In the above described embodiment, the positioning head 138 can be interacted with by providing a protrusion at the edge of the third plate 114 corresponding to the positioning slot 126 on the second plate 128.

The limiting member 25 is further described below in conjunction with fig. 29 and 30. Fig. 29 illustrates a front side perspective view of a stop 25 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 30 illustrates a rear perspective view of a limiter 25 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, as shown in fig. 29 and 30, a third plate 134 is disposed on the retaining member 25, and the third plate 134 is disposed opposite to the second plate 128 at one edge of the first plate 112. The side of the third plate 134 for interaction with the locking assembly 30 is provided with a plurality of protrusions 178, the protrusions 178 being disposed in correspondence with the respective detents 126. The interaction of the protrusion 178 with the locking head 106 is described below.

The structure of the positioning head 138 is further described below in conjunction with fig. 25-28. Fig. 25 illustrates a perspective view of the first positioning head 172 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. Fig. 26 illustrates a rear perspective view of the first positioning head 172 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 27 illustrates a partial perspective view of the positioning member 114 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 28 illustrates a partial rear perspective view of the positioning member 114 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the positioning member 114 includes a positioning body 136, a first positioning head 172, a support portion 132, and a coupling portion. The positioning body 136 may be coupled to the fixture 108. For example, the positioning body 136 can be coupled to the fixing frame 108 through a fixing hole 176 formed therein. As shown in fig. 25 and 26, the first positioning head 172 includes a tapered head 130, and the tapered surface of the tapered head 130 is adapted to interact with the protrusion 178 under the elastic force of the first elastic member 230. One end of the supporting portion 132 is fixedly connected to the conical head 130. The other end of the support portion 132 is provided with a hinge hole 166. The supporting portion 132 may be hinged to the second positioning head 174 by a hinge shaft 228 in the hinge hole 166. The coupling portion 168 is coupled to the supporting portion 132 and may be coupled to the positioning body 136 via the first elastic member 230. As shown in fig. 27 and 28, the second positioning head 174 extends from the positioning body 136 toward the limiting member 25. The second positioning head 174 is provided therein with a rotation groove 170 adapted to allow the first positioning head 172 to rotate in the rotation groove 170 by being pushed by the elastic force of the first elastic member 230. The second positioning head 174 is adapted to pass through the positioning slot 126 when the second positioning head 174 is aligned with the positioning slot 126 to engage the locking head 106 with the locking block 104.

In the above embodiment, the tapered surface of the tapered head 130 interacts with the protrusion 178 under the elastic force of the first elastic member 230, so that the position and state of the positioning head 138 can be changed, and the position of the automatic transfer switch can be indicated to the operator.

The operation of the position locking device 100 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure is described below with reference to fig. 20 to 22.

As shown in fig. 21 to 22, the position lock apparatus 100 mainly includes a drive assembly 10, a position defining assembly 20, and a lock assembly 30. Further, an operation panel 152 and an operation lever 142 are also shown in fig. 21 and 22. The operation panel 152 is provided with an operation hole 190 for operating ATSE or MTSE.

For example, initially the locking device 100 locks the automatic transfer switch in the connected position, the automatic transfer switch is now switched to the testing position. First, the stopper 150 is moved upward for operating the hole or button of the ATSE, and the operating lever 142 is inserted into the driving lever head 160. By moving the blocking portion 150 upward in the square hole 192 on the operation panel 152, the blocking portion 150 drives the second blocking piece 154 to slide upward to block the button or hole for operating the MTST. By moving the movement stopper 150 upward, the movement stopper 150 drives the second stopper piece 154 to slide upward to block the button operated to the MTST. After insertion of the lever 142, the first and second stop tabs 129, 154 will remain in place. Next, the position of the switch lever 116 is moved upward from the lock position 198 to the release position 202. At this time, the switching lever 116 drives the positioning member 114 to move upward. In the process, the limiting member 25 pushes the first positioning head 172 to rotate to the right. After the switch lever 116 reaches the release position 202, the tapered head 130 of the first positioning head 172 is higher than the upper surface of the third plate 134. The first elastic member 230 drives the first positioning head 172 to rotate counterclockwise, so that the cone head 130 is caught on the third plate 134. Then, the operation lever 142 is rotated counterclockwise to drive the automatic transfer switch to move forward, i.e., to move toward the operation panel 152. In the process, the tapered head 130 of the first positioning head 172 slides out of the edge of the isolation position, and the return spring 118 drives the positioning member 114 and the switching lever 116 to descend to the surface of the second plate 128. When the positioning member 114 keeps sliding forward, the edge of the spaced position of the positioning member 114 pushes the first positioning head 172 to rotate clockwise, and when the positioning head 138 reaches the positioning slot 126 corresponding to the testing position, the return spring 118 lowers the positioning head 138 and the switch lever 116 to the locking position 198. The locking head 106 thereby engages the locking block 104 to lock the position of the automatic transfer switch. The operating lever 142 is pulled out from the driving rod head 160. The first and second blocking pieces 129 and 154 are moved downward by the first and second return springs 156 and 158. The aperture for operating the drive assembly 10 is then plugged and the aperture for operating the MTSE is unlocked. The switching process of ATSE to other locations is similar. The switching process of ATSE to other locations is similar.

In the above embodiment, when the switch lever 116 is pushed to reach the release position 202, the first positioning head 172 is caught on the protrusion 178 of the limiting member 25. At this time, if the operator pushes the switch lever 116 downwards, the force is transmitted to the first positioning head 172 and increases the lateral force, and when the force is greater than the pushing force of the spring coupled to the first positioning head 172, the first positioning head 172 rotates clockwise to disengage from the positioning member 114. The operator may thus push the switch lever 116 to the locked position 198. Therefore, an operator can conveniently cancel the switching operation in time according to the requirement, thereby avoiding misoperation.

According to the scheme of the embodiment of the disclosure, the driving assembly 10, the position limiting assembly 20 and the locking assembly 30 are matched, so that the position locking of the automatic transfer switch can be realized through a simple structure, the reliability is enhanced, and the cost is reduced.

According to an embodiment of the present disclosure, there is also provided an electrical apparatus including the position locking device described above and the automatic transfer switch.

While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the above description is intended to be exemplary, illustrative of alternative embodiments of the disclosure, and not exhaustive, and not to limit the disclosure. Although claims have been formulated in this application to particular combinations of features, it should be understood that the scope of the disclosure also includes any novel feature or any novel combination of features disclosed herein either explicitly or implicitly or any generalisation thereof, whether or not it relates to the same aspect as presently claimed in any claim. The applicants hereby give notice that new claims may be formulated to such features and/or combinations of such features during the prosecution of the present application or of any further application derived therefrom.

The terminology used herein was chosen in order to best explain the principles of the embodiments, the practical application, or technical improvements to the market, or to enable others of ordinary skill in the art to understand the embodiments disclosed herein. Various modifications and alterations to this disclosure will become apparent to those skilled in the art. Any modification, equivalent replacement, or improvement made within the spirit and principle of the present disclosure should be included in the protection scope of the present disclosure.

Claims (19)

1. A position locking device (100) for an automatic transfer switch, characterized in that the position locking device (100) comprises:

drive assembly (10) comprising: a drive rod (102) extending along a first direction (X), one end of the drive rod (102) being adapted to be coupled with the automatic transfer switch and to drive the automatic transfer switch to switch between different operating positions; and a locking block (104) fixedly arranged on the driving rod (102);

a position defining assembly (20) comprising: a connection (113) extending along the first direction (X), the connection (113) being coupled with the driving rod (102); the limiting piece (25) is coupled with the connecting piece (113), and a positioning groove (126) is arranged on the limiting piece (25); and

a locking assembly (30) comprising:

a fixing frame (108) movably coupled with the limiting piece (25);

a positioning member (114) movably coupled to the fixing frame (108), wherein the positioning member (114) is adapted to cooperate with the positioning slot (126); and

a locking head (106) fixedly coupled with the positioning member (114), the locking head (106) being adapted to engage with the locking block (104) to lock the drive assembly (10) when the positioning member (114) corresponds in position to the positioning slot (126).

2. The position locking device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the drive assembly (10) further comprises:

a drive block (182) threadably coupled to the one end of the drive rod (102), and the drive block (182) adapted to couple with the automatic transfer switch;

wherein the driving rod (102) is suitable for rotating around an axis thereof so as to drive the driving block (182) to move along the first direction (X) and further drive the automatic transfer switch to move.

3. The position locking device (100) according to claim 2, wherein the drive assembly (10) further comprises:

a range limiting member (180) rotatably coupled to the drive rod (102), the range limiting member (180) comprising:

a first stopper portion (210);

a second limiting part (216) arranged at an interval from the first limiting part (210) along the first direction (X), wherein the distance between the first limiting part (210) and the second limiting part (216) limits the moving range of the driving block (182) in the first direction (X); and

a connecting portion (208) connecting the first stopper portion (210) and the second stopper portion (216).

4. The position locking device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the locking block (104) comprises:

a body portion (122) having a first planar surface (123), the first planar surface (123) adapted to engage a locking surface (224) of the locking head (106); and

a boss (124) protruding from the body portion (122), and the boss (124) adapted to limit rotation of the lock block (104) relative to the lock head (106).

5. The position locking device (100) according to claim 1, wherein the stopper (25) comprises:

a first plate (112) extending along the first direction (X), the first plate (112) being provided with a sliding groove (162), the sliding groove (162) being slidably coupled to a fixing member (232); and

-a second plate (128) extending along said first direction (X), contiguous to said first plate (112) and perpendicular to said first plate (112), said second plate (128) being provided with said positioning slot (126), said positioning slot (126) being adapted to cooperate with said locking head (106) when moved into a position corresponding to said locking head (106) to define a locking position (198) of said automatic transfer switch.

6. The position locking device (100) according to claim 5, wherein the stopper (25) further comprises:

a third plate (134) disposed along the first direction (X) on a side of the first plate (112) opposite the second plate (128), the third plate (134) having a protrusion (178) disposed at an edge thereof corresponding to the positioning groove (126) on the second plate (128).

7. The position locking device (100) according to claim 6, wherein the positioning member (114) comprises:

a positioning body (136) coupled to the fixture (108);

a first positioning head (172) comprising:

a conical head (130), the conical surface of the conical head (130) being adapted to interact with the protrusion (178) under the urging of the first elastic member (230);

a supporting part (132), wherein one end of the supporting part (132) is fixedly connected with the conical head (130), and the other end of the supporting part (132) is hinged with a second positioning head (174) through a hinge shaft (228); and

a coupling portion (168) coupled to the supporting portion (132) and coupled to the positioning body (136) via the first elastic member (230); and

-said second positioning head (174) extending from said positioning body (136) towards said retaining member (25), said second positioning head (174) being adapted to pass through said positioning slot (126) when said second positioning head (174) is aligned with said positioning slot (126) so as to engage said locking head (106) with said locking block (104).

8. The position locking device (100) according to claim 5, characterized in that the positioning member (114) comprises:

a positioning body (136) movably coupled with the fixture (108); and

a positioning head (138), coupled to the positioning body (136), adapted to pass through the positioning slot (126) when the positioning head (138) is aligned with the positioning slot (126) so that the locking head (106) engages with the locking block (104).

9. The position locking device (100) of claim 8, wherein the positioning head (138) has an end portion of gradually decreasing size adapted to interact with an edge of the positioning slot (126) such that the positioning head (138) gradually moves into or out of the positioning slot (126).

10. The position locking device (100) of claim 5, wherein said locking assembly (30) further comprises:

a fixing plate (110), the fixing plate (110) fixedly coupled to the locking head (106) and the positioning member (114); and

a locking head coupling adapted to movably couple the locking head (106) to the fixation plate (110).

11. The position locking device (100) according to claim 10, characterized in that said locking coupling comprises:

a sleeve (120) disposed in the bores of the two opposing plates of the holder (108) by circlips, the locking head (106) being adapted to move within the sleeve (120) in the axial direction of the sleeve (120); and

a return spring (118) disposed on the locking head (106), a first end of the return spring (118) abutting against a first side of the fixing plate (110) facing away from a locking surface (224) of the locking head (106), and a second end of the return spring (118) abutting against an end of the bushing (120) facing the first side of the fixing plate (110).

12. The position locking device (100) of claim 10, further comprising:

a switch lever (116) coupled with the fixing plate (110), the switch lever (116) being adapted to push the locking head (106) into or out of engagement with the locking block (104) by moving a position.

13. The position locking device (100) of claim 10, wherein said locking assembly (30) further comprises:

a guide plate (164) coupled to one side of the fixing frame (108) and extending to both sides of the fixing plate (110), adapted to guide a moving direction of the fixing plate (110).

14. The position locking device (100) of claim 1, further comprising:

an interlock mechanism provided inside an operation panel (152) of the automatic transfer switch and adapted to permit operation of the position lock device (100) in a first position and prohibit operation of the position lock device (100) in a second position.

15. The position locking device (100) according to claim 14, characterized in that said interlocking mechanism comprises:

a first return spring (156), a first end of the first return spring (156) being fixedly connected to an inner side of the operation panel (152);

a first blocking piece (129) disposed inside the operation panel (152), one end of the first blocking piece (129) being coupled with a second end of the first return spring (156); the first blocking tab (129) in the first position blocks elements on the operating panel for operating the drive assembly (10), and the first blocking tab (129) in the second position uncovers elements on the panel for operating the drive assembly (10).

16. The position locking device (100) of claim 15, further comprising:

a second return spring (158), wherein a first end of the second return spring (158) is fixedly connected to the inner side of the operation panel (152);

a second blocking piece (154) disposed inside the operation panel (152), one end of the second blocking piece (154) being coupled with a second end of the second return spring (158); the second blocking tab (154) is coupled to the first blocking tab (129) and adapted to move with the first blocking tab (129) to expose elements on the operating panel (152) for operating the bypass switch when the first blocking tab (129) is in the first position and to block elements on the operating panel for operating the bypass switch when the first blocking tab (129) is in the second position.

17. The position locking device (100) according to claim 12, wherein the position locking device (100) further comprises:

a fixing lever (236) coupled with the fixing plate (110) and the switching lever (116); and

a torsion spring (234) disposed on the fixing lever (236), the torsion spring (234) adapted to change a position of the switching lever (116) when the locking block (104) is separated from the locking head (106) and is no longer aligned.

18. The position locking device (100) according to claim 17, characterized in that:

the switch lever (116) is adapted to be disposed in a switch slot (200) of an operation panel of the automatic transfer switch, the switch slot (200) is provided with a recess at a first position (202), the torsion spring (234) is adapted to pull the switch lever (116) from the recess to a second position (204) when the height of the switch lever (116) is higher than the highest point of the recess during interaction of the positioning member (114) and the positioning slot (126), and the second position indicates that the positioning member (114) and the locking block (104) are in a separated state.

19. An electrical apparatus comprising the position locking device (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 18 and the automatic transfer switch.

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