EP3504726B1 - Switch and method for disconnecting a switch - Google Patents

Description

Technical area

The invention relates to the field of switches, in particular disconnectors, combined disconnectors and earthing switches, circuit breakers and / or earthing switches, further in particular disconnectors, combined disconnectors and earthing switches, circuit breakers and / or earthing switches for high voltages. The invention particularly relates to a switch and a method for disconnecting a switch. In particular, the invention relates to a switch that has a snap connection and a method of disconnecting a switch that includes releasing a snap connection.

State of the art

Electrical switches, such as circuit breakers, are used to open (or close) circuits by separating (or closing) electrical components. For example, an isolating switch can be used to isolate a circuit. In general, a circuit breaker is used to open and / or close a connection when no current or only a very small current is flowing, for example after the current flow has been switched off or before the current flow has been switched on. This distinguishes a circuit breaker from a circuit breaker, which is used to switch on and / or switch off the current flow even at higher currents.
During the opening and closing of an electrical switch, an arc, i.e. a self-sustaining gas discharge that has a sufficiently high electrical potential difference to maintain the required high current density through impact ionization, can arise between commutation contact elements or between commutation contact elements and a housing of the switch. The arc can damage or even destroy the commutation contact elements or the housing.
From the CH653474A5 a representative of the prior art is known. Furthermore, in the FR3016470 a circuit breaker for detecting the defect of an acceleration spring of an arcing contact is described. The circuit breaker has two electrical arcing contacts which are designed to be brought during an opening process by relative displacement in translation along a central axis of these arcing contacts from a closed position to an open position, one of the two electrical arcing contacts being a movable arcing contact, the an integral part of is an electrically conductive movable assembly that also includes another body that is slidably mounted relative to the movable arcing contact in a direction of movement of that electrically conductive assembly.

Summary of the invention

Thus, a switch and a method of disconnecting a switch are provided which solve at least some of the problems in the prior art.

In view of the foregoing, a switch according to claim 1 and a method according to claim 14 are provided. Further exemplary embodiments, refinements and aspects of the present invention emerge from the dependent patent claims, the description and the accompanying drawings.

In accordance with one aspect of the invention, a switch is provided. The switch comprises a housing, a first contact arrangement which has a first contact element or commutation contact element and a first contact, and a second contact arrangement which has a second contact element or commutation contact element and a second contact. The switch further comprises a nominal contact arrangement for transmitting the electrical power when the switch is in operation when it is closed. The first contact is movable along an axis between a closed contact position in which the first contact contacts the second contact and an open contact position in which the first contact is separated from the second contact. The first commutation contact element is movable along an axis between a closed commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element contacts the second commutation contact element, and an open commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element is separated from the second commutation contact element. The first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element are designed to form a snap connection with one another in the closed commutation contact element position. The first commutation contact element is coupled to the first contact via a first stop, a second stop and an elastic element, such that a) when the first contact is moved towards the closed contact position, the first stop moves the first commutation contact element towards the closed one Takes along the commutation contact element position, b) when the first contact is moved from the closed contact position towards the open contact position with an existing snap connection, the elastic element biases the first commutation contact element towards the open commutation contact element position, c) if the first contact exceeds a defined stop position during the movement towards the open contact position, the second stop takes the first commutation contact element with it in the direction of the open commutation contact element position in order to release the snap connection.

With the switch according to the invention, some advantages over known switches can be achieved. For example, the speed for opening the commutation contact elements can be increased. This can reduce the risk of an arc occurring. Furthermore, the risk of an arc occurring when the switch is closed can also be reduced.

According to a further aspect of the invention, a method for disconnecting a switch is provided. The switch comprises a housing, a first contact arrangement which has a first commutation contact element and a first contact, and a second contact arrangement which has a second commutation contact element and a second contact, the first contact protruding from the first commutation contact element in the direction of the second contact arrangement and the second contact protrudes from the second commutation contact element in the direction of the first contact arrangement. The switch further comprises a nominal contact arrangement for transmitting the electrical power when the switch is in operation when it is closed. The separation takes place from a closed commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element contacts the second commutation contact element, to an open commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element is separated from the second commutation contact element. The method comprises moving, at a first speed, the first contact when there is a snap connection between the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element along an axis from a closed contact position, in which the first contact contacts the second contact, to an open contact -Position in which the first contact is separated from the second contact. When the first contact is moved from the closed contact position in the direction of the open contact position with an existing snap connection, the elastic element biases the first commutation contact element in the direction of the open commutation contact element position. If the first contact exceeds a defined stop position during the movement towards the open contact position, the snap connection is released and the first commutation contact element is moved towards the open commutation contact element position at a second speed, the second speed being greater than the first Speed is. When the switch is closed, a distance between the first contact and the second contact is significantly smaller than a distance between the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element in the direction of the axis.

In a further embodiment of the method, when the switch is closed, the first contact and the second contact contact (touch) one another before the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element. In this way, an arc is specifically formed between the first contact and the second contact, as a result of which the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element are protected from damage by erosion and the like during operation of the switch. When the switch is opened, the electrical connection between the first contact and the second contact is interrupted before the electrical connection between the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element. This constellation is advantageous to ensure that an arc is formed between the first commutation contact element and the second commutation contact element, so that the first contact and the second contact are or are protected from damage during operation of the switch.

Brief description of the drawings

• Figur 1 eine schematische Teilansicht eines Schalters in einem geöffneten Zustand gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung,
• Figur 2 eine schematische Teilansicht eines Schalters kurz vor dem Schließen der Schnappverbindung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung, und
• Figur 3 eine schematische Teilansicht eines Schalters in einem Zustand kurz vor dem Trennen der Schnappverbindung gemäß Ausführungsbeispielen der Erfindung.

In the following, exemplary embodiments of the switch according to the invention are shown schematically and explained in more detail using the figures. In the figures, elements that are the same or have the same effect are provided with the same reference symbols. Show it:

• Figure 1 a schematic partial view of a switch in an open state according to embodiments of the invention,
• Figure 2 a schematic partial view of a switch shortly before closing the snap connection according to embodiments of the invention, and
• Figure 3 a schematic partial view of a switch in a state shortly before the separation of the snap connection according to embodiments of the invention.

Detailed description

Figure 1 shows schematically a partial view of a switch 100. The switch 100 comprises a housing 105, a first contact arrangement 110 and a second contact arrangement 120, as well as a nominal contact arrangement 117, 115, 124, which will be discussed in more detail later. The switch 100 is shown in an open switch position in which the first contact arrangement 110 and the second contact arrangement 120 are separated from one another. Especially the first contact arrangement 110 has a first contact element 112 or commutation contact element 112 and the second contact arrangement 120 has a second contact element 122 or commutation contact element 122. In the open switch position, the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 are also arranged in an open commutation contact element position in which the first commutation contact element 112 is separated from the second commutation contact element 122. Furthermore, the first contact arrangement 110 has a first contact 114 and the second contact arrangement 120 has a second contact 124. In the open switch position, the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 are also arranged in an open contact position in which the first contact 114 is separated from the second contact 124. Incidentally, for the sake of better visibility and better understanding, not all elements of the switch 100 are provided with hatching in the figures, although they are shown in section.

The first commutation contact element 112 is movable along an axis A. The axis A can extend from the first contact arrangement 110 to the second contact arrangement 120. In particular, the first commutation contact element 112 is between the open commutation contact element position and the closed commutation contact element position in which the first commutation contact element 112 contacts the second commutation contact element 122 (see FIG Figure 2 ), movable along axis A. If the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 114 are in the closed commutation contact element position, a current, in particular a commutation current when the switch 100 is opened, can flow via the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 114. However, when the switch is in the closed position, no or only a very low current preferably flows via the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 114. The first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 114 can be consumable contacts or commutation contacts, in particular for opening the switch 100.

Furthermore, the first contact 114 is movable along the axis A. In particular, the first contact 114 is movable between the open contact position and a closed contact position in which the first contact 114 contacts the second contact 124. In particular, the first contact 114 is between the open contact position and a closed contact position in which the first contact 114 contacts the second contact 124, movable along axis A. If the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 are in the closed contact position, a current, in particular a commutation current when the switch 100 is closed, can flow via the first contact 114 and the second contact 124. In the closed switch position, however, preferably no or only a very low current flows via the first contact 114 and the second contact 124. In normal operation, therefore, no nominal current preferably flows via the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 and the second contact 124 can be consumable contacts or commutation contacts, in particular for closing the switch 100.

The first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 are designed to form a snap connection with one another in the closed commutation contact element position. In the context of the present disclosure, a “snap connection” can be understood as a functional element for the detachable, simple form-fitting joining of components, such as the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122. In this case, at least one joining part, such as the first commutation contact element 112 and / or the second commutation contact element 122, can be elastically deformed and then become detachably hooked. There can therefore be a form fit, in particular between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122. In particular, with an existing snap connection, a current can flow via the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122.

When the switch 100 is closed, a distance between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 arranged opposite it in the direction of the axis A is compared with a distance between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122) in the direction of the axis ( A) massively lower. This has the effect that when the switch 100 is closed, wear occurs on this contact pair 114, 124 and not on the other contact pair with the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122.

In exemplary embodiments (which can generally be implemented in all disclosed variants of the invention), the first contact group 110 can have a contact part 115 and / or a first diverting contact 117. The contact part 115 can contact the first diverter contact 117. The second contact group 120 can have a second diverter contact 127. In particular, the contact part 115 can be movable along the axis A between a closed contact part position in which the contact part 115 makes contact with the second diverting contact 127, and an open contact part position in which the contact part 115 is separated from the second diverting contact 127. The contact part 115 can thus form a stable electrical connection between the first diverting contact 117 and the second diverting contact 127. In particular, the switch can be in the closed contact part position when the switch position is closed and / or be in the open contact part position when the switch position is open. The contact part 115 can be moved together with the first contact 114.

The switch 100 can thus be designed in such a way that the nominal current flow takes place via the contact part 115. The contact part 115 can therefore be a nominal contact. For example, the switch 100 can be for a nominal current flow of equal to or greater than 100 A, in particular equal to or greater than 1000 A, typically equal to or greater than 1600 A, and / or for a nominal current flow of equal to or less than 4000 A and / or a voltage of equal to or greater than 52 kV, typically equal to or greater than 100 kV, be designed. With a design of a switch according to the present disclosure, switchgear assemblies that are particularly compact in terms of dimensions can be implemented. Since the demand for particularly compact switchgear assemblies is particularly great in comparison with high-voltage switchgear assemblies with nominal voltages of approximately 170kV and higher, the present invention enables this continuing need to be satisfied.

The first diverting contact 117 and / or the second diverting contact 127 can be designed as one or more spiral contacts 117, 127. The diverting contacts 117, 127 can be designed to feed the nominal current to the contact part 115 and / or to divert it from it.

The first contact group 110 also has an elastic element 116. The elastic element 116 can be a compression spring 116, for example. The elastic element 116 can be connected to the first commutation contact element 112. For example, the first contact group 110 can have a first stop 118 and a second stop 119. The elastic element 116 can be mounted or clamped between the first stop 118 and the second stop 119. Thus, when the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 move relative to one another, the elastic element 116 can be tensioned and / or the elastic element 116 can be relaxed when the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 move away from one another. The elastic element 116 can thus build up a force which moves the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 away from one another.

The first stop 118 can be connected to the first commutation contact element 112 in such a way that they can be moved together. The second stop 119 can be connected, for example, to a housing 111 of the first contact arrangement 110. In particular, the second stop 119 can be moved together with the first contact 114. The first commutation contact element 112 and / or the first stop 118 can also be moved against the housing 111 of the first contact arrangement 110. For example, through such a structure, the first commutation contact element 112 can be coupled to the first contact 114 via the first stop 118, the second stop 119 and the elastic element 116 such that a) when the first contact 114 moves towards the closed contact position the first stop 118 takes the first commutation contact element 112 with it to the closed commutation contact element position, b) when the first contact 114 is moved from the closed contact position towards the open contact position with an existing snap connection, the elastic element 116 the first commutation contact element 112 biases towards the open commutation contact element position, and c) if the first contact 114 exceeds a defined stop position during the movement towards the open contact position, the second stop 119 the first commutation contact element 112 towards the open Neten commutation contact element position takes away to release the snap connection.

The switch 100 can be a disconnector, a combined disconnector and earthing switch (also known as a combination disconnector), a circuit breaker or an earthing switch. In particular, the switch 100 can be a circuit breaker, a circuit breaker or an earthing switch for high voltage. A high voltage can be a voltage equal to or greater than 1 kV, in particular equal to or greater than 52 kV. Furthermore, the switch 100 can be a gas-filled switch 100 which is filled with a dielectrically insulating medium or gas.

In the context of this disclosure, the dielectrically insulating medium or gas in switch 100 can be SF ₆ gas or any other dielectric insulating medium or arc extinguishing medium, be it gaseous and / or liquid. Such a dielectric insulation medium or insulation gas can comprise, for example, an organic fluorine compound selected from the group consisting of: a fluorine ether, an oxirane, a fluoramine, a fluoroketone, a fluoroolefin, a fluoronitrile, and mixtures and / or decomposition products of these substances. The terms “fluoroether”, “oxirane”, “fluoramine”, “fluoroketone”, “fluoroolefin” and “fluoronitrile” relate to at least partially fluorinated substances. In particular, the term "fluoroether" includes Fluoropolyethers (eg Galden) and fluoromonoethers as well as hydrofluoroethers and perfluoroethers, the term "oxirane" includes hydrofluoroxiranes and perfluoroxiranes, the term "fluoramine" includes hydrofluoroamines and perfluoroamines, the term "fluoroketone" includes hydrofluoroketones and perfluoroketones, "the term" includes fluoroketones and perfluoroolefins, and the term "fluoronitrile" includes hydrofluoronitriles and perfluoronitriles. The fluorine ether, the oxirane, the fluoramine, the fluoroketone and the fluoronitrile are advantageously or are completely fluorinated, ie perfluorinated.

In exemplary embodiments, the dielectric insulation medium is selected from the group consisting of: one (or more) hydrofluoroethers, one (or more) perfluoroketone (s), one (or more) hydrofluoroolefin (s), one (or more) perfluoronitriles, and mixtures thereof Substances.

In particular, the term “fluoroketone” is to be interpreted broadly in connection with the present invention and is intended to include both fluoromonoketones and fluorodiketones or, in general, fluoropolyketones. In this case, more than a single carbonyl group can be present in the molecule, laterally limited by carbon atoms. The term is also intended to include saturated and unsaturated components with double and / or triple bonds between carbon atoms. The at least partially fluorinated alkyl chain of the fluoroketones can be linear or branched and can optionally also form a ring.

In exemplary embodiments, the dielectric insulation medium and arc extinguishing agent comprises, as at least one component, a fluoromonoketone, which can optionally also contain foreign atoms in the main carbon chain of the molecule, namely e.g. at least one foreign atom from the group consisting of: nitrogen atom, oxygen atom, sulfur atom, which replaces a corresponding number of carbon atom (s). The fluoromonoketone, in particular perfluoroketone, advantageously has from 3 to 15 or from 4 to 12 and in particular from 5 to 9 carbon atoms. The fluoromonoketone preferably has exactly 5 and / or exactly 6 and / or exactly 7 and / or exactly 8 carbon atoms.

In exemplary embodiments, the dielectric insulation medium and arc extinguishing agent comprises as at least one component a hydrofluoroether selected from the group consisting of: hydrofluoromonoether comprising at least 3 carbon atoms; Hydro fluoromonoethers comprising exactly 3 or exactly 4 carbon atoms; Hydrofluoromonoether having a ratio of the number of fluorine atoms to the total number of fluorine and hydrogen atoms of at least 5: 8, hydrofluoromonoether having a ratio of the number of fluorine atoms to the number of carbon atoms in the range from 1.5: 1 to 2: 1; Pentafluoroethyl methyl ether; 2,2,2-trifluoroethyl trifluoromethyl ether; and mixtures of these substances.

In exemplary embodiments, the dielectric insulation medium comprises, as at least one component, a fluoroolefin selected from the group consisting of: hydrofluoroolefins (HFO) with at least 3 carbon atoms, hydrofluoroolefins (HFO) with exactly 3 carbon atoms, 1,1,1,2-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234yf ), 1,2,3,3-tetrafluoro-2-propene (HFO-1234yc), 1,1,3,3-tetrafluoro-2-propene (HFO-1234zc), 1,1,1,3-tetrafluoro- 2-propene (HFO-1234ze), 1,1,2,3-tetrafluoro-2-propene (HFO-1234ye), 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225ye), 1,1,2 , 3,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225yc), 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225zc), (Z) 1,1,1,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234zeZ), (Z) 1,1,2,3-tetrafluoro-2-propene (HFO-1234yeZ), (E) 1,1,1,3-tetrafluoropropene (HFO-1234zeE), (E) 1,1,2,3-tetrafluoro- 2-propene (HFO-1234yeE), (Z) 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225yeZ), (E) 1,1,1,2,3-pentafluoropropene (HFO-1225yeE), and Mixtures of these substances.

In exemplary embodiments, the dielectric insulation medium comprises a fluoronitrile, in particular a perfluoronitrile, as at least one component or organofluorine compound. In particular, the fluoronitrile or perfluoronitrile comprises - at least or precisely - 2 or 3 or 4 carbon atoms. The fluoronitrile is preferably a perfluoroalkyl nitrile, in particular a perfluoroacetonitrile, perfluoropropionitrile (C2F5CN) and / or a perfluorobutyronitrile (C3F7CN). The fluoronitrile is particularly preferably a perfluoroisobutyronitrile (with the formula (CF3) 2CFCN) and / or a perfluoro-2-methoxypropanenitrile (with the formula CF3CF (OCF3) CN); Of these, perfluoroisobutyronitrile is particularly advantageous because of its low toxicity.

The dielectric insulation medium can also additionally have a background gas or carrier gas which is different from the organofluorine compound and which in particular is not a fluorine ether, no oxirane, no fluoramine, no fluoroketone, no fluoroolefin or fluoronitrile. In exemplary embodiments, the carrier gas can be selected from the group consisting of: air, air component, N ₂ , O ₂ , CO ₂ , a noble gas, H2; Nitrogen oxides and in particular NO ₂ , NO, N ₂ O; Fluorocarbons and in particular perfluorocarbons, such as CF ₄ , CF ₃ I, SF ₆ ; and mixtures of these substances.

The first commutation contact element 112 and / or the second commutation contact element 122 can be essentially symmetrical, in particular cylindrically symmetrical, around the Be axis A. In particular, the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 can be designed such that they can form a form-fitting connection with one another. For example, the first commutation contact element 112 can be designed as a contact tulip and the second commutation contact element 122 can be designed as a contact pin, so that the first commutation contact element 112 partially encloses the second commutation contact element 122 in the closed switch state. Alternatively, the second commutation contact element 122 can be designed as a contact tulip and the first commutation contact element 112 can be designed as a contact pin, so that the second commutation contact element 122 partially encloses the first commutation contact element 112 in the closed switch state. As a result, a stable electrical connection can be formed between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122.

Furthermore, the second commutation contact element 122 can have a taper into which a widening of the first commutation contact element 112 can engage in the closed switch state in order to form the snap connection. Alternatively, the first commutation contact element 112 can have a taper into which a widening of the second commutation contact element 122 can engage in the closed switch state in order to form the snap connection. Depending on which commutation contact element 112, 122 is designed as a contact tulip, this commutation contact element 112, 122 can have the widening, while the commutation contact element 112, 122, which is designed as a contact pin, can have the taper. In the closed commutation contact element position, the taper and the widening can be in engagement with one another, whereas the engagement of the widening in the taper can be released in the open commutation contact element position.

The first contact 114 and / or the second contact 124 can, viewed from the axis A, be arranged only on one side of the first contact arrangement 110 or the second contact arrangement 120. Alternatively, the first contact 114 and / or the second contact 124 can be formed in the circumferential direction around the axis A. For example, the first contact 114 and / or the second contact 124 can have a cutout for a linear gear (see below). The first contact 114 and / or the second contact 124 can serve to reduce or prevent the formation of an arc or its effects on the neighboring parts, such as the first contact group 110, the second contact group 120 and / or the housing 105 . In particular, they can determine the location where an electric arc occurs to the effect that the arc, for example when the switch 100 closes, is formed between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124. The first commutation contact element 112, the second commutation contact element 122, the first contact 114 and / or the second contact 124 can comprise an arc-proof material.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first contact 114 can protrude from the first commutation contact element 112 in the direction of the second contact arrangement 120 and the second contact 124 can protrude from the second commutation contact element 122 in the direction of the first contact arrangement 110 when the first contact 114 is in the closed contact position is moved. In other words, when the switch 100 is closed, a distance between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 is smaller than a distance between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 in the direction of the axis (A). As a result, when the first contact 114 moves to the closed contact position, a distance between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 can be smaller than a distance between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122. As a result, an arc is more preferably formed between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 than between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122.

According to exemplary embodiments, the first stop 118 can be moved together with the first commutation contact element 112 counter to and / or with the direction of the force of the elastic element 116. In particular, when moving the first commutation contact element 112 out of the closed commutation contact element position, as long as the snap connection is formed, the first stop 118 can be moved together with the first commutation contact element 112 against the direction of the force of the elastic element 116. As a result, the elastic element 116 can be tensioned. After the snap connection has been released, the elastic element 116 can relax and the first stop 118 can be moved together with the first commutation contact element 112 in the direction of the force of the elastic element 116.

When the switch 100 is opened, two motion sequences can be executed in a superimposed manner. The first movement sequence corresponds to the movement of the first contact 114 from the closed contact position to the open contact position. This movement takes place essentially uniformly along a contact path, which corresponds to a path, which the second contact 114 travels from the closed contact position to the open contact position, in particular to an end position of the contact position. The movement of the first contact 114 along the contact path can take place at a first speed v1. The first speed v1 can be essentially constant over the entire contact distance. The second stop 119 can also cover the contact distance at the first speed v1.

The second movement sequence corresponds to the movement of the first commutation contact element 112 from the closed commutation contact element position to the open commutation contact element position. During a first part of the contact distance, the snap connection remains in the closed state and the first commutation contact element 112 does not move away from the second commutation contact element 122. A relative movement between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second contact 114 thus takes place over the first part of the contact path.

Over the first part of the contact distance, there is thus also a relative movement between the first stop 118, which is arranged to be moved together with the first commutation contact element 112, and the second stop 119, which is arranged to be moved together with the first contact 114 to be moved. The first stop 118 and the second stop 119 therefore move towards one another. Since the elastic element 116 is mounted between the first stop 118 and the second stop 119, the elastic element 116 is tensioned by the movement of the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 towards one another.

When a certain distance is reached, which corresponds to a distance between the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 in the open commutation contact element position, a defined stop position is reached in which the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 meet, and the second Stop 119 takes the first stop 118 with it in the direction of the open contact position by means of a form fit. This in turn has the consequence that the first commutation contact element 112 is now also moved to the open commutation contact element position at the first speed v1. The snap connection is consequently released. When the snap connection is released, however, there is no longer any counterforce on the elastic element 116 that would tension the elastic element 116. The elastic element 116 thus relaxes when the first part of the contact path is exceeded or when the snap connection is released and pulls the first commutation contact element 112 at a pulling speed Vz in the direction of the open Commutation contact element position. The second commutation contact element 112 covers a distance which is predetermined by the first stop 118 and the second stop 119, in particular by a distance between the first stop 118 and the second stop 119.

The pulling speed Vz, with which the elastic element 116 pulls the first commutation contact element 112 in the direction of the open commutation contact element position, adds to the first speed v1 with which the first commutation contact element 112 is connected via the positive connection of the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 is moved. The first commutation contact element 112 is thus separated from the second commutation contact element 122 at a second speed v2, which is greater than the first speed v1. The drawing speed Vz is preferably greater than the first speed. The second speed v2 thus corresponds to the sum of the first speed v1 and the pulling speed Vz, i.e. v2 = v1 + Vz. As a result, the speed at which the first commutation contact element 112 is moved away from the second commutation contact element 122 can be increased. This can also reduce the occurrence of an electric arc and the damage it causes. In particular, the first commutation contact element 112 can be pulled further away from the second contact group 120 than the first contact 114.

A drive (not shown) can be provided for moving the first contact 114. The drive can drive the first contact 114 in order to move the first contact 114, in particular along the axis A, from the first contact position to the second contact position and from the second contact position to the first contact position. For example, the drive can be positively connected to the first contact 114 via a gear, in particular a linear gear, in order to move the first contact 114 along the axis A. In particular, the drive can specify the first speed v1.

The Figure 2 shows schematically a partial view of the switch 100 moving from the separated commutation contact element position to the closed commutation contact element position, in particular shortly before the first commutation contact element 112 contacts the second commutation contact element 122. As from the Figure 2 As can be seen, the first contact 114 makes contact with the second contact 124 before the first commutation contact element 112 makes contact with the second commutation contact element 122. This can an arc can be specifically formed between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124, whereby in particular damage to the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 can be prevented.

When moving from the open commutation contact element position to the closed commutation contact element position, the first commutation contact element 112, the first contact 114, the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 can be moved together in the direction of the second contact arrangement 120. In particular, the elastic element 116 cannot be tensioned by the movement from the open commutation contact element position to the closed commutation contact element position.

If the movement in the direction of the closed commutation contact element position is via the Figure 2 The state shown further out, so first the closed contact position is reached in which the first contact 114 and the second contact 124 touch before the closed commutation contact element position is reached in which the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 touch. If one of the commutation contact elements 112, 122 is designed as a contact tulip and the other commutation contact element 112, 122 is designed as a contact pin, the contact tulip can slip over the contact pin and form a commutation contact between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122.

Furthermore, the snap connection described herein between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 is formed in the closed commutation contact element position. The snap connection not only provides a mechanically stable connection between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122, but, in combination with the mounting of the first commutation contact element 112 in the first contact arrangement 110 via the elastic element 116, offers the advantage that the speed when disconnecting of the first contact arrangement 112 can be increased from the second contact arrangement 122.

The Figure 3 shows schematically a partial view of the switch 100 moving from the closed commutation contact element position to the disconnected commutation contact element position, in particular in a state shortly before the snap connection is released. The first commutation contact element 112 and the are in this state second commutation contact element 122 is still in the closed commutation contact element position; the first commutation contact element 112 has therefore not yet been separated from the second commutation contact element 122. In Fig. 3 the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 are shown quasi-transparently, which is why both contours are visible in the contact area. Whereas the first contact 114 can already be separated from the second contact 124. Furthermore, the contact part 115 can already be in the open contact part position, that is to say already separated from the second diverting contact 127.

As the Figure 3 shows, the first commutation contact element 112 can in this state protrude from the first contact 114 in the direction of the second contact arrangement 120. The first contact 114 can therefore already have covered part of the distance in the direction of the open contact position. In the in the Figure 3 The state shown has not yet reached the stop position at which the snap connection is released. As a result, the first stop 118 is still at a distance from the second stop 119 and the form fit of the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 has not yet taken place. The Indian Figure 3 The state shown thus represents a state in which the first movement sequence takes place as described herein and the second movement sequence is in a state in which the first part of the contact path has not yet been exceeded and thus the first contact 114 and the second stop is moved relative to the first commutation contact element 112 and the first stop 118. The elastic element 116 is (still) tensioned.

If you follow the movement in the direction of the open commutation contact element position via the in the Figure 3 state shown, a form fit between the first stop 118 and the second stop 119 is achieved, whereby the snap connection is released. The first commutation contact element 112 is then moved indirectly via the first contact 114. The elastic element 116 then relaxes and pulls the first commutation contact element 112 away from the second commutation contact element 122 at the pulling speed Vz. This movement is superimposed on the movement of the first contact arrangement 110 at the first speed v1 away from the second contact arrangement 120, so that the first commutation contact element 112 is moved away from the second contact arrangement 120 at the second speed v2 = v1 + Vz.

Exemplary embodiments also include gas-insulated switchgear assemblies that include one or more switches according to the described exemplary embodiments. The invention has been exemplified using a switch, in particular using a protective gas switch, explained. However, it is also suitable for other switches for high and medium voltage applications, in particular of substations, e.g. for vacuum disconnectors, self-blowing power disconnectors, etc. The invention is also suitable for alternative gas switches, that is to say for switches that are described in particular with a Alternative gas to SF ₆ gas are filled. The invention is also suitable for switches that are filled with oil or air or another insulating medium.

The present invention thus provides a method for disconnecting a switch 100. The switch 100 comprises a housing 105, a first contact arrangement 110 which has a first commutation contact element 112 and a first contact 114, and a second contact arrangement 120 which has a second commutation contact element 122 and a second contact 124, the first contact 114 being opposite the first commutation contact element 112 protrudes in the direction of the second contact arrangement 120 and the second contact 124 protrudes with respect to the second commutation contact element 122 in the direction of the first contact arrangement 110. The switch 100 is disconnected from a closed commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element 112 contacts the second commutation contact element 122, to an open commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element 112 is separated from the second commutation contact element 122. The method comprises moving, at a first speed v1, the first contact 114 when there is a snap connection between the first commutation contact element 112 and the second commutation contact element 122 along an axis A from a closed contact position in which the first contact 114 has the second contact 124 contacted, to an open contact position in which the first contact 114 is separated from the second contact 124. When the first contact 114 is moved from the closed contact position in the direction of the open contact position with an existing snap connection, the elastic element 116 preloads the first commutation contact element 112 in the direction of the open commutation contact element position. If the first contact 114 exceeds a defined stop position during the movement in the direction of the open contact position, the snap connection is released and the first commutation contact element 112 is moved in the direction of the open commutation contact element position at a second speed v2, the second speed v2 is greater than the first speed v1.

A cycle of a closing movement and an opening movement can in particular consist of three contacting stages. When the switch 100 is closed, the first contact 114 can first contact the second contact 124, as a result of which a commutation current can flow between the first contact 114 and the second contact 124. The contact part 115 can then contact the second diverting contact 127, as a result of which the switch 100 can be closed. The nominal current can flow through the contact part 115 upon contact with the second diverter contact 127. When the switch is opened, the contact part 115 can first be separated from the diverter contact 127. The first contact 114 can then be separated from the second contact 124. The first contact element 112 can then be separated from the second contact element 122 via the snap connection, as a result of which a commutation current can flow between the first contact element 112 and the second contact element 122. Thus, the occurrence of arcs during opening and closing can be reduced, and thus damage to the switch can be reduced.

Claims (15)

1. Switch (100), comprising:

   - a housing (105);

   - a nominal contact arrangement (117, 115, 124); and

   - a first contact arrangement (110), having a first commutation contact element (112) and a first contact (114); and

   - a second contact arrangement (120), having a second commutation contact element (122) and a second contact (124),

   wherein the first contact (114) is moveable along an axis (A) between a closed contact position, in which the first contact (114) engages with the second contact (124), and an open contact position, in which the first contact (114) is separated from the second contact (124), and
   wherein the first commutation contact element (112) is moveable along an axis (A) between a closed commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element (112) engages with the second commutation contact element (122), and an open commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element (112) is separated from the second commutation contact element (122),
   wherein the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122) are designed, in the closed commutation contact element position, to mutually constitute a snap-action connection, and
   wherein, when the switch (100) is closed, a distance between the first contact (114) and the second contact (124), in relation to a distance between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122) in the direction of the axis (A), is smaller, and
   wherein the first commutation contact element (112) is coupled to the first contact (114) via a first limit stop (118), a second limit stop (119) and an elastic element (116) such that

   a) when the first contact (114) is moved to the closed contact position, the first limit stop (118) entrains the first commutation contact element (112) to the closed commutation contact element position,

   b) when the first contact (114), with the snap-action connection in place, is moved from the closed contact position in the direction of the open contact position, the elastic element (116) applies tension to the first commutation contact element (112) in the direction of the open commutation contact element position,

   c) when the first contact (114), during the movement thereof in the direction of the open contact position, overshoots a defined limit stop position, the second limit stop (119) entrains the first commutation contact element (112) in the direction of the open commutation contact element position, in order to release the snap-action connection.
2. Switch (100) according to Claim 1, wherein the elastic element (116) is a compression spring (116).
3. Switch (100) according to Claim 1, wherein the first contact (114) is moveable in combination with a contact part (115) of the nominal contact arrangement (117, 115, 124).
4. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first contact (114) projects beyond the first commutation contact element (112) in the direction of the second contact arrangement (120), and the second contact (124) projects beyond the second commutation contact element (122) in the direction of the first contact arrangement (110), when the first contact (114) moves to the closed contact position.
5. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first limit stop (118), in combination with the first commutation contact element (112), can be moved against and/or in the direction of the force of the elastic element (116).
6. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second limit stop (119) can be moved in relation to the first commutation contact element (112) and, in combination with the first limit stop (118), dictates a path along which the first commutation contact element (112) can be moved.
7. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first commutation contact element (112) is configured as a tulip contact and the second commutation contact element (122) is configured as a contact pin, such that the first commutation contact element (112) partially encloses the second commutation contact element (122) in the closed switch state.
8. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the second commutation contact element (122) incorporates a taper in which, in the closed switch state, a widened section of the first commutation contact element (112) engages, in order to constitute the snap-action connection.
9. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, further comprising a drive mechanism for driving the first contact (114).
10. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (100) is an isolating switch, a combined isolating and grounding switch, a power switch or a grounding switch.
11. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the snap-action connection between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122) is constituted by a form-fitted connection between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122).
12. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the first contact (114) and/or the second contact (124) are configured in the circumferential direction about the axis (A).
13. Switch (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the switch (100) is designed for a nominal voltage equal to or greater than 52 kV, specifically for a nominal voltage equal to or greater than 100 kV.
14. Method for disconnecting a switch (100), comprising a housing (105), a nominal contact arrangement (117, 115, 124), a first contact arrangement (110), having a first commutation contact element (112) and a first contact (114), and a second contact arrangement (120), having a second commutation contact element (122) and a second contact (124) wherein, upon the closing of the switch (100), a distance between the first contact (114) and the second contact (124), in relation to a distance between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122), in the direction of the axis (A), is smaller, wherein the first commutation contact element (112) is moveable from a closed commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element (112) engages with the second commutation contact element (122), to an open commutation contact element position, in which the first commutation contact element (112) is separated from the second commutation contact element (122), wherein the method comprises:

    - a movement, at a first speed (v1), of the first contact (114), in the presence of a snap-action connection between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122), along an axis (A) from a closed contact position, in which the first contact (114) engages with the second contact (124), to an open contact position, in which the first contact (114) is separated from the second contact (124),
    wherein, if the first contact (114), with the snap-action connection in place, is moved from the closed contact position in the direction of the open contact position, the elastic element (116) tensions the first commutation contact element (112) in the direction of the open commutation contact element position, and,
    wherein if the first contact (114), during the movement in the direction of the open contact position, overshoots a defined limit stop position, the snap-action connection is released, and the first commutation contact element (112) moves in the direction of the open commutation contact element position at a second speed (v2), wherein the second speed (v2) is greater than the first speed (v1).
15. Method according to Claim 14, wherein, upon the closing of the switch (100), the first contact (114) and the second contact (124) engage temporally in advance of the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122), such that an arc is constituted between the first contact (114) and the second contact (124), as a result of which the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122), during the operation of the switch (100) are protected against damage; and
    wherein, upon the opening of the switch (100), the electrical connection between the first contact (114) and the second contact (124) is interrupted temporally in advance of the electrical connection between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122),
    such that an arc is constituted between the first commutation contact element (112) and the second commutation contact element (122), as a result of which the first contact (114) and the second contact (124), during the operation of the switch (100), are protected against damage.

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