EP0802552B1 - Electrical switch with undervoltage release - Google Patents

Description

The invention relates to an electrical switch with the features of the preamble of claim 1.

Such switches are known from DE-A-4 341 214 and from DE-A-3 340 250. These switches work with a magnetic circuit for electromagnetic Undervoltage release together. If the monitored voltage drops below one determined value, the magnetic circuit is opened and consequently one manually operated switching element transferred to its off position. In this switch-off position the circuit of the electrical switch is interrupted. The Switching element is coupled to the movable magnet armature of the magnetic circuit in such a way that when the switching element is in the switched-off position, the magnetic circuit is automatically closed again. As a result, the magnetic circuit is also without The presence of the required minimum voltage is closed again. The The electromagnet therefore only needs to be closed with a magnetic circuit for the magnet armature generate the required holding force. This holding force is much smaller than the attraction force to close the magnetic circuit when it is back Tension.

A disadvantage of the known switches is the complex coupling between the switching element and the magnet armature. The switching movement of the Switching device from its on position to its off position is over transfer complex rocker arm designs to the magnetic armature. This Coupling complicates the manufacture of the undervoltage release necessary components and increases manufacturing costs also allow the complicated rocker arm designs are only relatively small Power transmission between the switching element and the magnet armature. Already minor Signs of wear and tear of these swivel levers can make the proper Interfering with the operation of the undervoltage release. Around To counteract this, individual coupling components could be dimensioned stronger become. However, this has an increased space requirement for the switch housing and / or a housing provided for the magnetic circuit.

The invention has for its object an electrical switch of the beginning to improve the type mentioned in terms of construction and safety.

This object is achieved by the combination of features of claim 1 According to the switching element with the magnet armature of the magnetic circuit by a linearly movable fixing slide to fix the magnet armature on Magnetic core coupled in the switched-off position of the switching element. The translation movement of the fixing slide enables a particularly space-saving construction the coupling required between the switching element and the armature. This also has a space-saving effect on the dimensioning of the switch housing and an optionally provided housing for the magnetic circuit Furthermore, the fixing slide, which is linearly movable in its direction of displacement, that exerted by the switching element in the off position on the fixing slide Forces essentially effective in the direction of displacement directly on the magnet armature can be transferred. As a result, the switching element only has to be proportionate Apply small forces to keep the magnet armature in its tightened position To move the position on the magnetic core and fix it there. Preferably one contact surface of the magnet armature with one or more pole surfaces Pole surfaces of the magnetic core contacted directly. This contact is usually made against the spring pressure of one between the magnet armature and the magnet core arranged and effective in the drop direction of the armature compression spring. The good power transmission caused by the fixing slide from the switching element to the Magnetic anchors also favor a simple construction of the Switching element and its stability during the operating life of the switch. The fixing slide is preferably mounted displaceably on the housing side, as a result of which Wrong movements and faulty power transmissions between the switching element and Magnetic armatures can be reliably avoided.

The voltage connected to the electromagnet and to be monitored is in a preferred embodiment, the mains voltage for the circuit of the electrical switch. In principle, the electromagnet can also be connected to another Voltage must be connected. In a further preferred embodiment the electromagnet is connected to two phases of a multi-phase power system. Here, the undervoltage unit is preferably used with a bipolar switch combined The electrical switch is in a preferred Embodiment designed as an overcurrent protection switch and each has this Phase a corresponding overcurrent trip element, especially one on one Switch lock of the circuit breaker acting bimetal strips.

The undervoltage unit with the magnetic circuit can be in the switch housing be installed or integrated in a separate housing, which by suitable fasteners is coupled to the switch housing.

The coil connections of the electromagnet are preferably via a Rectifier with the contact connections connected to the voltage to be monitored the undervoltage unit electrically connected. By the electromagnet operated with direct current becomes the annoying "hum" avoided A complex design and processing of the pole faces of the Electromagnets for hum reduction are therefore superfluous. In another An advantageous embodiment is in the electrical circuit between the coil connections of the electromagnet and the one connected to the voltage to be monitored A series resistor is used for the contact connections. This series resistor reduces the power consumption of the coil winding and enables a lower power loss of the electromagnet in continuous operation.

In a preferred embodiment, the switching element is a two-armed rocker switch formed, which is pivotally mounted on the switch housing. While the pivoting of the rocker switch into its off position becomes its pivoting movement converted directly into a translational movement of the fixing slide. In a further embodiment, the switching element is in the form of one or two push buttons trained, which pressurizes the user to operate them manually and thereby be slowly shifted. Preferably, the Longitudinal movement of the push button parallel to the translational movement of the fixing slide, so that the push button and the fixing slide are particularly easily coupled can be

The switching element is switched to its switch-off position when the trigger is released e.g. overcurrent, undervoltage and manual operation from the switch-off position of the switching element (= interrupted circuit) the switch cannot usually be switched on again for safety reasons, if the voltage monitored by the undervoltage unit is not sufficient, to hold the magnet armature in its tightened position on the magnet core. When trying to move the switching element to its switch-on position anyway, the magnetic circuit is opened and the automatic sequence is repeated Turning off the switch and closing the magnetic circuit started. This automatic sequence when attempting to transfer the switching element to its switch-on position helps to ensure that the safety requirements for the Switches are met.

The fixing slide and the switching element are preferably in such a manner with one another connected that the fixing slide from the switching element in its on position is decoupled. In this case, the fixing slide and the magnet armature are opposite the switching element is freely movable. This free mobility ensures reliable release of the switch in the event of undervoltage. Moreover supports the decoupling of the switching element and the fixing slide the aforementioned Sequence of events when trying to switch the switching element in spite of undervoltage Switch to the on position.

In a preferred embodiment, the fixing slide has one transverse to it Movement direction extending shoulder on. With undervoltage, i.e. if the magnet armature falls off, the fixer slide is moved and acted upon a switch lock connected to the switching element. The key switch is to open and close a switching contact of the circuit between a Contact opening position and a contact closing position movable and transfers the switching element to its switch-off position when the switching contact is opened. In this way, the fixing slide ensures that undervoltage is triggered a technically simple automatic sequence for interrupting the circuit and closing the magnetic circuit again. For triggering this automatic sequence, i.e. the application of the key switch, apart from the fixing slide itself, no other components are necessary. This supports a space-saving and technically simple construction of the electrical Switch and the undervoltage unit.

In a preferred embodiment is between the fixing slide and the Magnetic armature arranged a spring element. Its spring force can be production-related Dimensional tolerances and deviations of the switching element, the fixing slide and compensate for the magnetic tank, thereby ensuring the safe operation of the switch. Due to the balancing effect of the spring element is also the part of the committee in the production of the aforementioned Components lower, which also reduces the manufacturing costs of the electrical Switch and the undervoltage unit can be further reduced.

The compensating spring element is preferably in the form of an arched spring washer formed with a concave side facing the magnet armature. Advantageous the spring element is supported on the magnetic armature, in particular on its the face facing the fixing slide, and is therefore without additional Aids between the fixing slide and the magnetic armature are fixed above In addition, the spring washer between the fixing slide and magnetic armature can be integrated in a space-saving manner and ensures particularly effective transmission the spring force on the fixing slide in its direction of displacement.

In an advantageous embodiment, the magnet armature with the fixing slide captively connected. This creates a mechanically particularly stable drive coupling between the two components. Faulty functional processes to open and close the magnetic circuit are therefore a priori avoided. The captive coupling is e.g. through a positive or realized a material connection. The coupling can be rigid or movable his.

In a preferred embodiment, the magnet armature is approximately transverse to it the end face facing the fixing slide is penetrated by an anchor slot. This anchor slot takes a fixing pin arranged on the fixing slide on. The fixing pin is preferably an integral part of the fixing slide and thereby supports a mechanically stable coupling between the Fixing slide and the magnetic anchor. The fixing pin according to Art a positive connection with the magnet armature connected and simplified thereby the assembly of the components. The fixing pin penetrates the fixing slide forth the magnet armature in the direction of the contact surface facing the magnetic core of the magnet armature. The fixing pin engages there in an advantageous manner Design the slot edge of the anchor slot. For this is on the fixing pin In a preferred embodiment, a crossbar is formed, which is in the assembled state of the fixing pin the slot edge of the anchor slot on the contact surface The fixer pin and its associated crossbar are particularly good T-shaped. To the fixing pin particularly stable on the magnet armature to couple, the anchor slot is cross-shaped with two intersecting, longitudinal slits of different lengths. The two longitudinal slots are dimensioned in such a way that the T-shaped fixing pin is first inserted into the longer longitudinal slot used and with the crossbar through this longitudinal slot is passed through and then rotated by 90 ° into the shorter longitudinal slot snaps into place. In this way, the fixer slide is additionally secured against rotation mounted on the magnet armature and thus even better against unwanted changes in position protected

Is the aforementioned compensation spring element between the fixing slide and the magnet armature arranged, the fixing pin is in an additional Function as a centering and fixing element effective for this spring element. Without further aids, this spring element is held captive on the fixing pin For this purpose, the spring element is designed, for example, as a coil spring and surrounds the Locating pin with a small radial distance. This is designed as a spring washer Spring element transversely to the plane of the disc from a slot for receiving the fixing pin enforced and thereby also stored captive.

To the space requirement of the components of the switch and the undervoltage release unit to further reduce and the proper functioning of the To support the fixing slide with low coupling forces, the direction of displacement is of the fixing slide in a preferred embodiment in parallel for the direction of the magnet armature. The direction of displacement is preferably of the fixing slide at the same time in the plane of movement of the switching element on

In order to simplify the manufacture of the fixing slide, it is a preferred one Embodiment designed plate-like, the plate level about the direction of displacement and a transverse direction extending across it is. This simple shape allows the fixing slide to be manufactured as cheap mass-produced items. This fixing slide is advantageous as a stamped part Can also be made from a suitable plastic or metal the plate shape of the fixing slide further miniaturizes the switch and / or the undervoltage unit.

In a preferred embodiment, the one carrying the coil of the electromagnet Coil body at least two over the pole face of the magnetic core in the direction of drop protruding from the magnet armature and running approximately in the direction of the waste Leaders on. These guide bars are opposite one another arranged and flank the magnet armature laterally as a movement guide. Hereby it is guaranteed that the magnet armature in the direction of the fall and in the direction performs controlled movements in its tightened position. This contributes to this in that the components of the electrical drive coupled together Switch and the undervoltage unit no undesirable changes in position exhibit. In addition, these guideways are indirect as a movement guide effective for the locking slide coupled to the magnetic armature. Hereby there is also a simple movement of the fixing slide in case that its direction of displacement and the direction of movement of the magnet armature run in parallel. In particular, the guide webs are an integral part of the bobbin, which is injection molded or cast from a suitable plastic is.

About the falling movement of the magnet armature and the linear movement of the fixing slide in the direction of displacement to a reasonable level are to the mutually facing inner sides of the guide webs each have a stop lug arranged. These stop lugs are transverse to the direction of waste of the magnet armature and are directed towards each other. These are preferably Stop lugs are an integral part of the guide bars and are therefore manufactured easy to manufacture.

In an advantageous embodiment, the electromagnet of the magnetic circuit a horseshoe-like or U-shaped magnetic core. The freeers of the two U-legs of the magnetic core each have a pole face, which when closed Magnetic circuit contacted with the contact surface of the magnet armature are.

Usually, the coil body carrying the coil of the electromagnet is in the In order to make the electromagnet easy to assemble in several parts to be able to accommodate the magnetic core. Here it is advantageous to use the bobbin to be formed in two parts with the division plane as the symmetry plane in this The case for the assembly of the bobbin is the manufacture of a single one Component necessary. This takes into account a production-oriented and inexpensive Manufacture of the electromagnet.

Through appropriate recesses, grooves and shape of the coil body the magnetic core is fixed to the coil body. The U level of the horseshoe lies In an advantageous embodiment, the magnetic core is approximately in the division plane of the bobbin. As a result, the magnetic core without additional Fixing agent between the two partial bodies acting as clamping jaws of the bobbin fixed. In a preferred embodiment the two partial bodies e.g. by mutual locking, locking or the like. captive connected with each other. This connection facilitates further assembly of the electromagnet and the magnetic core as a compact unit

A separate device housing is preferably for the undervoltage unit intended. The coil body of the electromagnet is in this device housing used and conveniently releasably fixed there. To the manufacture of the device housing To simplify, the bobbin carries several spring hooks, which project beyond an insertion opening of the device housing when installed and correspond with corresponding locking recesses in the circuit breaker housing. There is therefore no need for any additional fasteners on the device housing for mounting on the switch housing. The device housing can therefore be particularly cost-saving, for example as a rectangular receiving shaft or the like. Taking into account the spring hooks on the bobbin on the other hand, the cost is not so important because of the coil body anyway the shape of the magnetic core and possibly the Guide bars for the magnet armature must be taken into account.

In the assembly position of the coil body and the other components within the Of course, the latter is made externally for safety reasons sealed. For this purpose, the switch housing is preferably in an additional Sealing function used. Here are the ones with the spring hooks cooperating locking recesses arranged such that an outer surface of the switch housing with the spring hooks locked, the insertion opening of the device housing automatically covers. On separate sealants for sealing The undervoltage unit when assembled can therefore save costs to be dispensed with.

Fig. 1

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines Überstromschutzschalters mit einem daran befestigten Unterspannungsgerät,

Fig. 2

eine Explosionsdarstellung wesentlicher Bauteile des Unterspannungsgeräts gemäß Fig. 1,

Fig 3

eine teilweise geschnittene Seitenansicht wesentlicher Bauteile des Überstromschutzschalters und des Unterspannungsgerätes gemäß Fig. 1, mit geschlossenem Magnetkreis und einem Schaltorgan in Einschaltstellung,

Fig. 4

die Seitenansicht gemäß Fig. 3 bei geöffnetem Magnetkreis und noch in Einschaltstellung befindlichem Schaltorgan,

Fig. 5

die Seitenansicht gemäß Fig. 3 mit dem Schaltorgan in Ausschaltstellung und mit erneut geschlossenem Magnetkreis,

Fig. 6

eine Seitenansicht des Unterspannungsgerätes gemäß Pfeilrichtung VI in Fig. 5,

Fig. 7

die perspektivische Darstellung des Überstromschutzschalters gemäß Fig. 1 mit einer weiteren Ausführungsform von Gerätekontaktanschlüssen des Unterspannungsgerätes zum elektrischen Anschluß an eine Spannung.

Fig.8

eine perspektivische Darstellung eines zwei Druckknöpfe als Schaltorgan enthaltenden Uberstromschutzschalters mit einem daran befestigten Unterspannungsgerät.

The subject matter of the invention is explained in more detail using the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures. Show it.

Fig. 1

1 shows a perspective illustration of an overcurrent protection switch with an undervoltage device attached to it,

Fig. 2

2 shows an exploded view of essential components of the undervoltage device according to FIG. 1,

Fig. 3

2 shows a partially sectioned side view of essential components of the overcurrent protection switch and the undervoltage device according to FIG. 1, with a closed magnetic circuit and a switching element in the switched-on position,

Fig. 4

3 with the magnetic circuit open and the switching element still in the switched-on position,

Fig. 5

3 with the switching element in the switched-off position and with the magnetic circuit closed again,

Fig. 6

2 shows a side view of the undervoltage device according to arrow direction VI in FIG. 5,

Fig. 7

the perspective view of the overcurrent protection switch according to FIG. 1 with a further embodiment of device contact connections of the undervoltage device for electrical connection to a voltage.

Fig. 8

a perspective view of an overcurrent protection switch containing two push buttons as a switching element with an undervoltage device attached to it.

The electrical switch is a two-pole overcurrent protection switch 1 - below in short: "Circuit breaker 1" - trained. Its made of insulating plastic Switch housing 2 has a rectangular housing opening 3, which by a switching element in the form of a two-armed rocker switch 4 In Fig. 1, the rocker switch 4 is in its on position, in which the Circuits of the two phases of the circuit breaker 1 are closed. The Switch rocker 4 is between its switch-on position and one that interrupts the circuits Switch-off position can be swiveled. On the two narrow sides the switch housing 2 are two resilient housing hooks 5, of which only three housing hooks 5 are visible in FIG. They serve the Attachment of the circuit breaker 1 in a front panel, not shown here.

The rocker switch 4 acts with a switch lock or a switching mechanism Open and close switching contacts of the circuits and with a magnetic Circuit for electromagnetic undervoltage release together The magnetic circuit is part of an undervoltage device 6, the Device housing 7 is mounted in the mounting position on the switch housing 2.

The basic construction and operation of the circuit breaker 1 is in DE-C-2 928 277. The rocker switch 4 is on a housing-fixed Swivel axis 8 pivotally mounted (Fig. 3). On one of the switching mechanics Acting end 9 of the rocker switch 4, a coupling cam 10 is attached, which runs transversely to the pivoting plane of the rocker switch 4, a cam track 11 penetrates a latch lever 12 (Fig. 3). The latch lever 12 is supported with a support nose 13 arranged at its one free end on a lever arm 14 of a two-armed arm running approximately vertically in the plane of the drawing Release lever 15 from. The trigger lever 15 is by means of an axle mount 16 on a housing axis running parallel to the pivot axis 8 pivoted. The one arranged approximately at right angles with respect to the latch arm 14 second lever arm of the trigger lever, namely a trigger arm 17 applied in the event of overcurrent by a bimetal, not shown, whereby the trigger lever 15 is pivoted counterclockwise. Hereby the latch lever 12 is released from the release lever 15 and thereby transferred the rocker switch 4 in its off position (this is done in principle in the of Fig. 4 and Fig. 5 sequence shown). The unlatched latch lever 12 ends the pressure on a contact spring 18, which counter pivots clockwise and thereby one attached to its free end Switch contact 19 from a fixed contact 20 fixed in the switch housing 2 (FIG. 4, Fig 5) separates. As a result, the electrical circuit in the plane of the drawing from FIGS. 3 to 5 shown poles of the circuit breaker 1 interrupted. The switch locks of both Poles of the circuit breaker 1 are connected to each other or by a only switch lock replaces that the circuits of both poles always simultaneously are closed or interrupted. With the switch contact 19 facing away Fastening end 21, the contact spring 18 is welded to a contact tongue 22. This contact tongue 22 is fixed and protrudes in the switch housing 2 beyond a bottom side 23 of the switch housing 2, in order in a known manner to be connected to the associated circuit.

The rocker switch 4 and the switch lock of the circuit breaker 1 are with the magnetic circuit of the undervoltage device 6 is particularly illustrative in FIG shown fixing slide 24 coupled together. The principle of operation the coupling will be described in detail later. The fixing slide 24 is in the Installation state within the switch housing 2 and the device housing 7 linearly movable or displaceable. The displacement direction 25 runs in the direction its longitudinal extent The fixing slide 24 is a plate-like component, the Plate level through the direction of displacement 25 and a transverse to it Transverse direction 26 is spanned. The fixing slide 24 has one in the transverse direction 26 extending contact shoulder 27, which when the magnetic circuit opens the trigger arm 17 of the trigger lever 15 acts counterclockwise and thereby moves the key switch into its contact opening position (Fig. 4). In this contact opening position of the key switch is the Circuit broken.

The magnetic circuit contains a plate-shaped magnet armature 28 and a horseshoe-like, d h a U-shaped magnetic core 29. The two U-legs of the Magnetic core 29 are connected to each other by a connecting yoke 30 and each have a pole face 31 at their free ends. The pole faces 31 are with a closed magnetic circuit directly with a contact surface facing them 32 of the magnet armature 28 contacted. The contact surface 32 and one for this opposite end face 33 of the fixing slide 24 Magnetic armatures 28 are at right angles to the direction of displacement 25 in the assembled state the fixing slide 24 is arranged. When the magnetic circuit is closed, the Contact surface 32 against the spring pressure of a coil spring 34 on the pole faces 31 held in the middle between the two U-legs of the magnetic core 29 arranged coil spring 34 surrounds with its one axial spring end in a form-fitting manner a centering mandrel 35 and acts on its other axial spring end the contact surface 32. The centering pin 35 is on the armature 28 facing surface of an arranged approximately transversely to the direction of displacement 25 Support bearing 36 integrally formed. The support bearing 36 is supported in the assembled state on a bobbin 37 to be explained later. To do that To integrate support bearing 36 in a particularly space-saving manner, it has two opposite ones Bearing grooves 38, which each have a U-leg in the assembled state of the magnetic core 29 in a form-fitting manner

There is a spring element between the fixing slide 24 and the magnet armature 28 arranged in the form of an arched spring washer 39. The spring washer 39 tangents with its convex side a extending in the transverse direction 26 Supporting edge 40 of the fixing slide 24 The spring washer is supported in the assembled state 39 with its two disc edges 41 running in the transverse direction 26 on the end face 33 of the magnet armature 28. The in the direction of the support edge 40 Prestressed spring washer 39 compensates for displacement 25 for manufacturing-related dimensional differences of the fixing slide 24 and the Magnetic armature 28

The magnet armature 28 is by a over the support edge 40 in the direction of displacement 25 protruding fixing pin 42 with the fixing slide 24 captive connected. The fixing pin 42, which is T-shaped in cross section, has at its end Magnetic armature 28 facing free end extending in the transverse direction 26 Cross bar 43 on. In the assembled state of the fixing slide 24, the fixing pin passes through 42 in the direction of displacement 25 a central disc longitudinal slot 44 the spring washer 39 and a cross-slot-shaped armature slot 45 of the magnet armature 28. The anchor slot 45 is through a first longitudinal slot and one intersecting, shorter longitudinal slot is formed for assembly the cross bar 43 passed through the longer longitudinal slot of the anchor slot 45. Does that stick out? Cross bar 43 beyond the contact surface 32, the fixing slide 24 is 90 ° rotated so that the fixing pin 42 in the shorter longitudinal slot of the anchor slot 45 snaps into place. The crossbar 43 engages behind the slot edge of the anchor slot 45 and is pressed by the spring washer 39 against the supporting edge 40 pressed against the contact surface 32 With the help of the fixing pin 42 are the fixing slide 24, the spring washer 39 and the magnet armature 28 mechanically stable connected.

The direction of displacement 25 of the fixing slide 24 runs parallel to the direction of movement (= Falling direction) of the magnet armature 28 and lies at the same time in the Plane of movement of the rocker switch 4 a (Fig. 3 - Fig. 6).

The bobbin 37 shown in two parts in FIG. 2 carries one in FIGS. 4-6 schematically illustrated coil 46. The two partial bodies 37 'of the coil body 37 each carry two approximately in the direction of movement of the magnet armature 28 extending guide webs 47 The guide webs 47 are in one piece on the Coil body 37 formed and protrude in the assembled state of the magnetic circuit beyond the pole faces 31 in the direction of drop of the armature 28. A boardwalk 47 of the partial body 37 'is aligned in the transverse direction 26 with a guide web 47 of the second partial body 37 'These two aligned guide webs 47 flank the magnet armature 28 on both sides and thereby force a linear movement of the magnet armature 28 in the direction of displacement 25 around the movement To improve, is a second pair of two guide bars with parallel spacing 47 integrally formed on the coil body 37. The facing the fixing slide 24 Free ends of the guide webs 47 have a stop lug 48 for limitation of the path of the falling magnet armature 28. To this Purpose are the stop lugs 48 of the two in the transverse direction 26 together aligned guide webs 47 directed towards each other and act on the Face 33 of the falling armature 28 (Fig. 4).

The division plane of the coil former 37 is also its plane of symmetry, since the two partial bodies 37 'and 37' are identical. Here lies the U-plane of the magnetic core 29 approximately in the parting plane of the coil former 37 a. The partial body 37 'has an opening with the magnetic core 29 facing receiving groove 49. This receiving groove 49 is in the direction of displacement 25 limited by a plurality of groove webs 50. When assembling the electromagnet the two partial bodies 37 'are directed towards one another in the transverse direction 26 and take the connecting yoke 30 of the with their grooves 49 Magnetic core 29 approximately form-fitting between them. This is the magnetic core 29 mechanically stably fixed to the bobbin 37

On each partial body 37 'there are also two transverse to the plane of movement of the fixing slide 24 spaced apart spring hooks 50 are formed. In the assembled state of the bobbin 37 is aligned with a spring hook 50 of the first Part body 37 'in the transverse direction 26 with a spring hook 50 of the second part body 37 '. The assembled bobbin 37 passes through an insertion opening 51 through along an insertion direction 52 into the cuboid device housing 7 used and locked with the device housing 7. To this end point the insides of the two transversely to the plane of movement of the fixing slide 24 extending side walls of the device housing 7 two mounting grooves each 53, of which only the one in FIG. 2 due to the perspective representation two mounting grooves 53 of one side wall are visible. The two assembly grooves 53 of each side wall run at a parallel distance in the direction of insertion 52. They correspond to corresponding mounting webs 54 of the partial body 37 '. The level of these guide webs 54 is through the direction of insertion 52 and Transverse direction 26 spanned. They allow easy assembly and exact Positioning of the electromagnet in the device housing 7. For stationary positioning of the bobbin 37 in the device housing 7, the two are parallel to Plane of movement of the fixing slide 24 extending side walls of the device housing 7 each penetrated by two locking holes 55 These locking holes 55 correspond with appropriately trained and molded on the partial bodies 37 ' Lugs 56 (Fig. 2).

When the coil former 37 is in the assembled state, the spring hooks 50 protrude beyond the insertion opening 51 of the device housing 7 also. For simple assembly Locking the undervoltage device 6 on the circuit breaker 1 reach behind the Spring hooks 50 corresponding latching webs 57 in the area of the switch bottom side 23 (Figs. 3-5). The insertion opening 51 is in the locked position of the spring hook 50 of the device housing 7 from one arranged in the area of the switch bottom side 23 Cover wall 58 of the switch housing 2 automatically sealed to the outside. The fixing slide 24 connected to the magnet armature 28 projects beyond the insertion opening 51 of the device housing 7 also. When assembling the device housing 7 on the circuit breaker 1 passes through the fixing slide 24 in the direction of displacement 25 a wall opening of the top wall 58 and dips into the switch housing 2 on. Here, the fixing slide 24 dips with a rod-shaped, in Direction of displacement 25 over the contact shoulder 27 protruding free end of the slide 60 into the rocker switch (Fig. 3-5).

The coil connections 61 of the coil 46 are via a bridge rectifier 62 with two device connection contacts connected to the voltage to be monitored 63 'or 63 "of the undervoltage device 6 electrically connected (Fig. 1, Fig. 7). It is also in the electrical circuit between the bridge rectifier 62 and the device connection contacts 63 'or 63 "a series resistor 64 used. The bridge rectifier 62 is in the assembled state between a resilient clamp arm 59 and the partial body 37 'captively clamped.

Two embodiments are provided for the device connection contacts. In In a first embodiment, two device connection contacts 63 'protrude in the direction of insertion 52 beyond the device housing 7 (Fig. 1,2,3,5,6) and are with the monitoring voltage - not shown here - directly electrically connected. In In a second embodiment, two device connection contacts 63 "are complete arranged within the device housing 7 (Fig. 4, Fig. 7). In this embodiment is the undervoltage device 6 directly with connections of the circuit breaker 1 electrically connected For this purpose, the circuit breaker 1 facing Free ends of the device connection contacts 63 "as flat contact tongues 65 educated. These contact tongues 65 correspond to in the direction of displacement 25 extending contact slots 66 of two switch connection contacts 67 To the two switch connection contacts 67 is not shown here Aids connected to the power supply line, especially screwed on two contact slots 66 are dimensioned such that when attaching the Undervoltage device 6 on the circuit breaker 1, the contact tongues 65 in the contact slots 66 intervene and from these with the necessary electrical contact pressure be clamped.

The principle of operation of the circuit breaker combined with the undervoltage device 6 1 is explained below: In the event of overcurrent, the switch lock or the switching mechanism of the circuit breaker 1 in an interrupting the circuit Contact opening position and the rocker switch 4 transferred to their off position (Fig. 5). The shifting rocker 4, which has been brought into its switched-off position, acts upon it of its actuation side 68 facing the user, the slide free end 60 in Direction of displacement 25. This causes the magnet armature 28 on the magnet core 29 held (= closed magnetic circuit), regardless of the size of the Device connection contacts 63 'or 63 "applied voltage (Fig. 5).

In the switched-on position of the rocker switch 4, the slide free end 60 is of the Switch rocker 4 decoupled and freely movable relative to the rocker switch 4 (Fig. 3) In this case, the positioning of the fixing slide 24 is exclusive depending on the position of the magnet armature 28. This is exclusively through the voltage at the device connection contacts 63 'or 63 "on the magnetic core 29 held (= closed magnetic circuit according to FIG. 3). Sinks If the voltage drops below a certain value, the holding force of the electromagnet is sufficient not out to the armature 28 in its tightened position hold. The magnet armature 28 is therefore by the spring pressure of the coil spring 34 in the downward direction, i.e. printed in the direction of the rocker switch 4. The one with the fixing slide 24 coupled to the magnet armature 28 becomes 25 in the displacement direction moved to the actuation side 68 of the rocker switch 4 (Fig. 4). Here acted upon the contact shoulder 27 of the fixing slide 24 counteracts the release lever 15 clockwise, whereby the switch lock - as already described - in the contact opening position is transferred. Not with the help of one here shown torsion spring in its off position pivoting rocker switch 4 is applied with its actuating side 68 automatically the fixing slide 24 and moves it in the direction of displacement 25 towards the magnetic core 29 (FIG. 5). The magnetic circuit is therefore always automatic when the rocker switch 4 is switched off closed, even if the for holding the magnet armature 28 on the magnet core 29 required voltage at the device connection contacts 63 or 63 "not yet applied again.

If the required voltage is present again, the magnetic circuit is in the process of renewed Switch on the circuit breaker 1 (= transfer of the rocker switch 4 into your Switch-on position) already closed. The electromagnet therefore only has to Generate required holding force for the magnet armature 28. Is the required Voltage, however, is not yet on again, the magnetic circuit is attempted to transfer the rocker switch 4 to its on position, automatically opened. As a result, the abutment shoulder 27 acts on the release lever 17, see above that the key switch is forced into its contact opening position. The Switch rocker 4 can therefore not be transferred to its on position and the Circuit breaker 1 cannot be turned on as long as the required voltage does not rest on the device connection contacts 63 'or 63 ".

8 shows a further embodiment of the circuit breaker 1 with two push buttons 69, 69 'shown as a switching element. Functionally identical components are in Fig.8 provided with the same reference numerals as in Fig.1 to Fig.7 The two Push buttons 69, 69 'for switching the circuit are in the direction of displacement 25 displaceable and form-fit each have a guide recess 70, 70 '. The two guide recesses 70, 70 'are part of one formed on the switch housing shaft-like guide attachment 71. Der Guide attachment 71 is also part of the switch housing 2 surrounding mounting panel 72 which 25 in the displacement direction is penetrated by two circular mounting holes 73. The mounting holes 73 are used to hold suitable fasteners, e.g. Screws, with whose help the circuit breaker 1 is fixed in place at the installation site.

The mechanical coupling of the two push buttons 69, 69 'to one another Switching the circuit can in principle in the known from WO-A-9407255 Way. The fixing slide 24, not shown in Fig. 8 is with the Push button 69 coupled in such a way that in the off position of the circuit breaker 1 or the push button 69 of the fixing slide 24 the position shown in FIG. 5 occupies. Here, the slide free end 60 is preferably in a hood-like Receiving opening of the push button 69 and from this in Direction of the magnetic core 29 is pressurized. In another, not here The embodiment shown is only a single push button as a switching element provided and coupled in a suitable manner with the fixing slide 24.

1

Überstrom schutzschalter

2

Schaltergehause

3

Gehäuseöffnung

4

Schaltwippe

5

Gehäusehaken

6

Unterspannungsgerät

7

Gerätegehäuse

8

Schwenkachse

9

Wirkende

10

Kopplungsnocken

11

Nockenbahn

12

Verklinkungshebel

13

Stütznase

14

Verklinkungsarm

15

Auslösehebel

16

Achsaufnahme

17

Auslösearm

18

Kontaktfeder

19

Schaltkontakt

20

Festkontakt

21

Befestigungsende

22

Kontaktzunge

23

Schalterbodenseite

24

Fixierschieber

25

Verschieberichtung

26

Querrichtung

27

Anlageschulter

28

Magnetanker

29

Magnetkern

30

Verbindungsjoch

31

Polfläche

32

Kontaktfläche

33

Stirnfläche

34

Schraubenfeder

35

Zentrierdorn

36

Stutzlager

37

Spulenkörper

37'

Teilkörper

38

Lagernut

39

Federscheibe

40

Stutzkante

41

Scheibenkante

42

Fixierzapfen

43

Quersteg

44

Scheibenlängsschlitz

45

Ankerschlitz

46

Spule

47

Führungssteg

48

Anschlagnase

49

Aufnahmenut

50

Federhaken

51

Einsetzöffnung

52

Einsetzrichtung

53

Montagenut

54

Montagesteg

55

Rastloch

56

Rastnase

57

Raststeg

58

Deckwand

59

Klemmausleger

60

Schieberfreiende

61

Spulenanschluß

62

Brückengleichrichter

63',63"

Geräteanschlußkontakt

64

Vorwiderstand

65

5 Kontaktzunge

66

Kontaktschlitz

67

Schalteranschlußkontakt

68

Betätigungsseite

69,69'

Druckknopf

70.70'

Führungsaussparung

71

Führungsaufsatz

72

Montageblende

73

Montageloch

Reference list

1

Overcurrent circuit breaker

2

Counter case

3rd

Housing opening

4th

Rocker switch

5

Case hook

6

Undervoltage device

7

Device housing

8th

Swivel axis

9

Actors

10

Coupling cams

11

Cam track

12th

Latch lever

13

Support nose

14

Low latching

15

Release lever

16

Axle support

17th

Trigger arm

18th

Contact spring

19th

Switch contact

20th

Fixed contact

21

Fastening end

22

Tongue

23

Switch bottom side

24th

Fixing slide

25th

Direction of displacement

26

Cross direction

27

Investment shoulder

28

Magnetic anchor

29

Magnetic core

30th

Connecting yoke

31

Pole face

32

Contact area

33

Face

34

Coil spring

35

Centering mandrel

36

Support bearing

37

Bobbin

37 '

Partial body

38

Bearing groove

39

Spring washer

40

Support edge

41

Edge of the pane

42

Fixing pin

43

Crossbar

44

Longitudinal slit

45

Anchor slot

46

Kitchen sink

47

Boardwalk

48

Stop nose

49

Groove

50

Spring hook

51

Insertion opening

52

Direction of insertion

53

Mounting groove

54

Assembly bridge

55

Rest hole

56

Latch

57

Rest bridge

58

Top wall

59

Clamp arm

60

Slide-free end

61

Coil connection

62

Bridge Rectifiers

63 ', 63 "

Device connection contact

64

Series resistor

65

5 contact tongue

66

Contact slot

67

Switch connection contact

68

Actuation side

69.69 '

Push button

70.70 '

Guide recess

71

Leadership essay

72

Mounting panel

73

Mounting hole

Claims (16)

1. Electrical switch (1) having a switching element (4, 69), which moves between a switched-on and a switched-off position, for switching a circuit, and having a magnetic circuit (28, 29) for electromagnetic undervoltage tripping, with the switching element (4, 69) moving to its switched-off position in the event of an undervoltage in the opening magnetic circuit (28, 29), and with the switching element (4, 69) which has moved to its switched-off position closing the magnetic circuit (28, 29) once again,
      characterized by
   a linear-moving fixing slide (24), which couples the switching element (4, 69) to the magnet armature (28), for fixing the magnet armature (28) on the magnet core (29) when the switching element (4, 69) is in the switched-off position.
2. Switch according to Claim 1,
      characterized in that the fixing slide (24) is decoupled from the switching element (4, 69) when the latter is in the switched-on position.
3. Switch according to Claim 1 or 2,
      characterized in that the fixing slide (24) has a contact shoulder (27) which runs transversely with respect to the movement direction (25) and, when the magnet armature (28) trips out, acts on a switching mechanism (12, 15) which is connected to the switching element (4, 69), in order to open a switching contact (19) in the circuit and in order to move the switching element (4, 69) to its switched-off position.
4. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
      characterized by
   a spring element (39), which is arranged between the fixing slide (24) and the magnet armature (28), for positioning the fixing slide (24) between the switching element (4, 69) and the magnet armature (28).
5. Switch according to Claim 4,
      characterized by
   a spring washer (39), which is supported on the magnet armature (28), is domed in the form of a curve, and whose concave side faces the magnet armature (28).
6. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
      characterized in that the magnet armature (28) is connected in a captive manner to the fixing slide (24).
7. Switch according to Claim 6, characterized in that the magnet armature (28) has an armature slot (45) for holding a fixing pin (42), which is arranged on the fixing slide (24) and engages behind a slot edge of the armature slot (45).
8. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
      characterized in that the device (25) for moving the fixing slide (24) runs parallel to the tripping direction of the magnet armature (28) and/or lies in the movement plane of the switching element (4, 69).
9. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims.
      characterized by
   a fixing slide (24) in the form of a plate.
10. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
       characterized in that the coil former (37) to which the coil (40) of the electromagnet is fitted has at least two guide webs (47) which project beyond the pole surface (31) of the magnet core (29) in the tripping direction of the magnet armature (28) and, mutually opposite one another, flank the magnet armature (28) as a movement guide at the sides.
11. Switch according to Claim 10,
       characterized in that the guide webs (47) are each fitted with a stop tab (48), which stop tabs (48) point towards one another, transversely with respect to the tripping direction.
12. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
       characterized in that the magnet armature (28) makes contact with the two pole surfaces (31) of a horseshoe-like magnet core (29) in order to close the magnetic circuit.
13. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
       characterized in that the coil former (37) to which the coil (40) of the electromagnet is fitted is split in two with the dividing plane being the plane of symmetry.
14. Switch according to Claims 12 and 13,
       characterized in that the U-plane of the horseshoe-like magnet core (29) lies approximately in the dividing plane of the coil former (37).
15. Switch according to one or more of the preceding claims,
       characterized

    in that the coil former (37) to which the coil (40) of the electromagnet is fitted is inserted into an appliance housing (7) and is fixed there, and

    in that the coil former (37) is fitted with spring hooks (50) which project through an insertion opening (51) in the appliance housing (7) in the assembled state, and correspond with corresponding latching cut-outs (57) in the switch housing (2).
16. Switch according to Claim 15,
       characterized in that the insertion opening (51) in the appliance housing (7) is sealed externally by a cover wall (58) of the switch housing (2) when the spring hooks (50) are in the latched position.

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