EP3832688B1 - Electrical switching device with separable contacts and circuit breaker comprising such a device - Google Patents

Electrical switching device with separable contacts and circuit breaker comprising such a device Download PDF

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Publication number
EP3832688B1
EP3832688B1 EP20211350.2A EP20211350A EP3832688B1 EP 3832688 B1 EP3832688 B1 EP 3832688B1 EP 20211350 A EP20211350 A EP 20211350A EP 3832688 B1 EP3832688 B1 EP 3832688B1
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EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
lever
switching device
axis
switching
contacts
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP20211350.2A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
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EP3832688A1 (en
Inventor
Loïc Glomon
Javier Herreros
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Schneider Electric Industries SAS
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Schneider Electric Industries SAS
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Publication date
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Publication of EP3832688A1 publication Critical patent/EP3832688A1/en
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Publication of EP3832688B1 publication Critical patent/EP3832688B1/en
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Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H01H71/12—Automatic release mechanisms with or without manual release
    • H01H71/128—Manual release or trip mechanisms, e.g. for test purposes
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H01H71/50—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release
    • H01H71/52—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release actuated by lever
    • H01H71/522—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release actuated by lever comprising a cradle-mechanism
    • H01H71/525—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release actuated by lever comprising a cradle-mechanism comprising a toggle between cradle and contact arm and mechanism spring acting between handle and toggle knee
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/32—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts
    • H01H3/38—Driving mechanisms, i.e. for transmitting driving force to the contacts using spring or other flexible shaft coupling
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H3/00—Mechanisms for operating contacts
    • H01H3/02—Operating parts, i.e. for operating driving mechanism by a mechanical force external to the switch
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
    • H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
    • H01H71/50—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release
    • H01H71/501—Means for breaking welded contacts; Indicating contact welding or other malfunction of the circuit breaker
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
    • H01H2221/00—Actuators
    • H01H2221/008—Actuators other then push button
    • H01H2221/016—Lever; Rocker

Definitions

  • the present invention relates to an electrical switching apparatus.
  • the invention relates in particular to the field of electrical switching devices with separable contacts, such as molded case circuit breakers or switches.
  • Such switching devices with separable contacts comprise a switching mechanism which has the function of moving electrical contacts of the device between an open state and a closed state, for example in response to an action of a trigger or a operator.
  • toggle switching mechanisms also called “tumbler” in English.
  • FR 2 687 249-A1 describes for example a circuit breaker comprising such a toggle switching mechanism.
  • This switching mechanism comprises an articulated toggle, which is connected to a movable contact on the one hand and is driven by a lower connecting rod on the other hand.
  • the lower connecting rod is articulated with an upper connecting rod, itself tiltably mounted on a hook, the hook cooperating with a lock for holding the hook in the locked position.
  • the switching mechanism further comprises a control lever which pivots about a fixed axis and which is connected to one end of a spring, another end of the spring being connected to the axis of the toggle lever by the intermediate of the upper connecting rod.
  • US-4,935,712-A describes such a device according to the preamble of claim 1, which requires the installation of specific parts in the switching mechanism, which is not always achievable without having to design a new mechanism.
  • the invention seeks to remedy more particularly, by proposing a switching device whose contact opening speed is independent of the actuation speed of the control lever.
  • the invention relates to an electrical switching device according to claim 1.
  • the opening speed of the contacts is independent of the speed of the lever.
  • the opening of the contacts begins while the lever is in an intermediate position offset from neutral, where the spring generates sufficient rotational moment on the parts of the switching mechanism to separate the contacts with sufficient speed.
  • the occurrence of electric arcs is limited, and the durability of the electrical contacts and the switching mechanism is extended.
  • FIG. 1 represents an electrical switching device 2, such as a circuit breaker with separable contacts, in particular a molded case circuit breaker.
  • the device 2 can be another type of electrical switching device, such as a switch or a contactor.
  • the switching device 2 comprises a switching mechanism 4, configured to selectively bring into contact or separate a fixed electrical contact 6 and a movable electrical contact 8.
  • the fixed contacts 6 and mobile 8 are thus separable contacts, which are respectively connected to connection terminals of the device 2 and are for example associated with a pole.
  • the device 2 is multipolar and then comprises a pair of separable contacts 6 and 8 per pole.
  • Mechanism 4 is then common to the poles. What is described is true for one pole and can be transposed to other poles, the latter not being described so as not to overload demand.
  • the switching device 2 is intended to be operated manually by means of a control lever 10.
  • the switching device 2 can also include a trigger 12, for example an electronic trigger or an electromechanical trigger.
  • the switching mechanism 4 is represented in a so-called “closing” configuration, in which the movable contact 8 is in contact with the fixed contact 6, thus authorizing the circulation of an electric current. Contacts 6 and 8 are in a state called “closed state”.
  • the switching device 2 comprises a chassis 14, partially shown, on which at least part of the elements of the switching device 2 are mounted.
  • the chassis 14 can be placed inside a housing, not shown, which is made of an electrically insulating material.
  • the fixed contact 6 is fixed relative to the chassis 14, while the movable contact 8 is mounted to pivot relative to the chassis 14 around a main axis X8.
  • the rotational movements of the parts are made around respective axes parallel to the main axis X8, and the translation movements of the parts are made in planes orthogonal to the main axis X8.
  • the axis X8 is perpendicular to the geometric plane of the figures.
  • the movements of the mobile contact 8 are linked to the switching mechanism 4, which here includes a “toggle” type connection 16.
  • This connection is simply called “toggle 16” in the remainder of the description.
  • the toggle 16 comprises a low connecting rod 18 and a high connecting rod 20, which are articulated together at one of their respective ends around an axis X16 of the toggle 16.
  • Axis X16 is parallel to main axis X8.
  • the connecting rod 18 is mounted, at the opposite end of the axis X16, pivoting on the movable contact 8 around an axis X18, which is parallel to the main axis X8.
  • the connecting rod 20 is pivotally mounted relative to the chassis 14 around an axis, not shown, parallel to the main axis X8 and located at the opposite end of the end comprising the axis X16.
  • the high connecting rod 20 is linked to a shaft, called “tree of poles", which serves to synchronize the opening of several switching devices, of the type of switching device 2, connected in parallel.
  • the pole tree is not drawn in the figures.
  • the toggle lever 16 When the mechanism 4 is in the closed configuration, the toggle lever 16 is in a so-called “deployed” configuration, in which the connecting rods 18 and 20 form between them an angle of maximum amplitude, close to 180° but strictly less than 180° , and the separable contacts 6 and 8 are in the closed state.
  • the toggle 16 In the opening configuration shown on the figure 5 , the toggle 16 is completely folded, that is to say that the connecting rods 18 and 20 form between them an angle of minimal but not zero amplitude, and the separable contacts 6 and 8 are said to be “completely open”.
  • the toggle lever 16 is actuated by a lower connecting rod 22, which here has a hook shape.
  • the connecting rod 22 has a first end, pivotally mounted relative to the upper connecting rod 20 around an axis close to the axis X16 and parallel to the axis X16, and a second end which accommodates a rod 24.
  • the rod 24 is here cylindrical and centered on an axis X24 parallel to the main axis X8.
  • the mechanism 4 also includes an upper connecting rod 26 connected to the rod 24.
  • the connecting rod 22 is called lower connecting rod 22 because it is located below the upper connecting rod 26.
  • the qualifiers "high”, “ bottom”, “lower”, “upper” are chosen with reference to the orientation of the switching device 2 in the drawings, and do not prejudge a particular operation of the device 2.
  • the switching device 2 is preferably intended to be mounted so that the top is oriented towards the left of the drawings, as shown by an arrow F1 on the figures 1 to 3 And 5 .
  • the direction of earth's gravity is oriented opposite the arrow F1, that is to say horizontally towards the right of the drawings.
  • the upper connecting rod 26 partially visible in the figures, has in this example a central body in the shape of a triangle, one of the vertices of which has a bearing surface 28.
  • a second vertex of the triangle accommodates the rod 24 linked to the connecting rod lower 22.
  • a third vertex of the triangle has a tilt axis X30.
  • the upper connecting rod 26 has, in the vicinity of the second vertex, an extension which accommodates a rod 32, the rod 32 being centered on an axis X32 parallel to the main axis X8.
  • the switching mechanism 4 could not include the toggle lever 16 driven by the connecting rods 22 and 26.
  • Other structures of switching mechanisms 4 are possible, these structures fulfilling the same functions as the mechanism 4 illustrated .
  • the rocker axis X30 parallel to the main axis X8, is provided in an intermediate part of a hook 34.
  • the hook 34 here has an elongated shape, with a first end mounted to pivot relative to the frame 14 around an axis X34 parallel to the axis X8, and a second end in which a lug 36 is provided.
  • a rod 38 of cylindrical shape, is arranged coaxially with the axis X34. In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , the bearing surface 28 of the upper connecting rod 26 is in contact with the rod 38.
  • the lug 36 cooperates with a lock 40.
  • the lock 40 is pivotally mounted relative to the frame 14 around an axis X40, parallel to the axis X8.
  • one end of the lock 40 cooperates with a pawl 42, the pawl 42 preventing clockwise rotational movements of the lock 40 around the axis X40.
  • the pawl 42 is sometimes called a “half-moon lock”.
  • the pawl 42 cooperates with a trigger and allows automatic actuation of the mechanism by the trigger, without manual intervention by an operator.
  • the control lever 10 comprises a support 44 and a handle 46.
  • the handle 46 is secured to the support 44, which is pivotally mounted around a pivot axis X47, which is secured to the frame 14 and parallel to the main axis X8.
  • axis X47 is confused with axis X24, whereas in the opening configuration, axis X47 is distinct from axis X24.
  • the support 44 has a stirrup shape symmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the main axis X8.
  • the support 44 comprises arms 48, arranged radially relative to the pivot axis X47. Each arm 48 has, at a distal end of the axis X47, a boss 50.
  • lever 10 In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , the lever 10 is in a first stable extreme position called “closing”. In the opening configuration shown in Figure 5 , in which the separable contacts 6 and 8 are completely open, the lever 10 is in another stable extreme position called “opening”.
  • the support 44 here cooperates with a fixing rod 52, which is attached to a first end 54 of a spring 56, while a second end 58 of the spring 56 cooperates with the rod 32.
  • the spring 56 is a helical spring which extends in a direction represented by an axis A56.
  • Axis A56 is thus located in a plane orthogonal to axis X32.
  • the spring 56 is designed to be in tension regardless of the relative position of the handle 46 relative to the upper connecting rod 26.
  • a neutral axis A60 of the upper connecting rod 26 is an axis connecting the axis X32 of the rod 32 and the rocker axis X30 of the connecting rod 26.
  • the neutral axis A60 is located in a plane orthogonal to the axis X32.
  • the neutral axis A60 and the axis A56 of the spring 56 are both intersecting with the axis X32 and define between them a tilt angle ⁇ .
  • the lever 10 is in the closed position and the tilt angle ⁇ is negative.
  • a so-called “neutral” position of the lever 10 is defined as being an intermediate position between the opening and closing positions of the lever 10.
  • the neutral position corresponds to a position in which the The neutral axis A60 and the axis A56 of the spring 56 are aligned. The angle ⁇ is then zero.
  • the mechanism 4 further comprises a safety device 62, which prevents the lever 10 from being put in the open position as long as the separable contacts 6 and 8 are not completely open.
  • the safety device 62 comprises a first element 64, assembled to a second element 66 by means of connecting members 68, which are rivets in the example illustrated.
  • the first element 64 comprises, in a central part, a plate 70, which is formed for example by cutting then by folding.
  • the plate 70 is extended, at a first end, by a hook 72.
  • the hook 72 here is located in a plane both orthogonal to the plate 70 and orthogonal to the main axis X8.
  • the hook 72 cooperates with the rod 32 so as to link the first element 64 in translation relative to the rod 32.
  • the safety device 62 is articulated in rotation relative to the lower connecting rod 22 around the axis X32 of the rod 32.
  • the central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70 passes through a slot 74 of the lock 40 and has, at a second opposite end of the hook 72, a curved part 76, oriented towards the second element 66. Notches 78, visible on the Figure 4 , are provided in the central part 70, on the opposite side of the curved part 76.
  • the second element 66 here has a flat shape, produced for example by cutting and then folding a sheet metal.
  • the second element 66 is connected by a first end to the first element 64 in the vicinity of the hook 72 and comprises, at a second end opposite the first end, a rim 80 oriented towards the first element 64 and located opposite the curved part 76.
  • the first element 64 and the second element 66 define between them an internal volume 82, in which the pivot axis X40 of the lock 40 is housed.
  • the axis X40 is housed with play in the internal volume 82, limiting the amplitude of the rotational movements of the safety device 62 around the axis X32.
  • a face 84 is defined as being a face of the central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70 oriented opposite the internal volume 82.
  • the second element 66 further comprises lateral stops 86, provided on edges of the second element 66 between the first and second ends.
  • the stops 86 are clearly visible on the figure 4 .
  • Each stop 86 has, in the example illustrated, the shape of an elongated right triangle, with a long side connected to the second element 66, a short side 88 and a hypotenuse, the short side 88 and the hypotenuse being free, the short side being oriented towards the rim 80.
  • the stops 86 face lugs 90 of the lock 40, but there is no contact force generated between the stops 86 and the lugs 90.
  • the safety device 62 is subjected to its own weight, represented by an arrow F62 on the figure 2 And 3 , which exerts a moment tending to rotate the device 62 around the axis X32 in the counterclockwise direction in the drawings. This moment tends to maintain the stops 86 facing the lugs 90.
  • the amplitude of the movement of the safety device 62 is limited by the pivot axis X40 of the lock 40 housed within the internal volume 82.
  • the stops 86 cooperate with the lugs 90, that is to say that a contact force is generated between the stops 86 and the lugs 90.
  • the lugs 90 are arranged radially to the axis X40 and each have a bearing surface 92, oriented opposite the axis X40.
  • the moment resulting from the contact force between the stops 86 and the lugs 90 tends to rotate the safety device 62 around the axis X32 in the counterclockwise direction in the figures, this that is to say upwards.
  • the lever 10 In the closing configuration illustrated on the figure 1 , the lever 10 is in the closed position, and the angle ⁇ has a minimum value, that is to say that the angle ⁇ is negative and has a maximum absolute value.
  • the lug 36 of the hook 34 is housed in the slot 74 of the lock 40, which is retained by the pawl 42.
  • the spring 56 in tension, maintains the upper connecting rod 26 in contact with the rod 38.
  • the lower connecting rod 22 pushes the toggle lever 16 into the deployed configuration, in which the lower connecting rod 18 maintains the separable contacts 6 and 8 in the closed state.
  • the safety device 62 subjected to its weight F62, is in a position such that the stops 86 remain facing the lugs 90 of the lock 40.
  • an operator pivots the lever 10 around the pivot axis X47 from the closed position to the open position. In the example illustrated in the figures, this corresponds to a pivoting movement of the lever 10 in a clockwise direction.
  • the movement of the handle 46 is represented by an arrow 94 on the figures 1 to 3 .
  • the tension of the spring 56 maintains the surface 28 of the upper connecting rod 26 resting on the rod 38.
  • the spring 56 exerts a torque which opposes the movement of the lever 10 by the operator and maintains the separable contacts 6 and 8 in the closed state.
  • the angle ⁇ is zero, that is to say when the axis A56 of the spring 56 is aligned with the neutral axis A60 and the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 is also null.
  • the lever 10 is shown in another intermediate position between the dead center and the open position.
  • the angle ⁇ is strictly positive, that is to say that the axis A56 of the spring 56 is located on the other side of the axis neutral A60 compared to the closing or intermediate configurations shown on the figures 1 Or 2 .
  • the boss 50 being integral with the handle 46, the pivoting movement of the lever 10 is taken up by the boss 50, the movement of the boss 50 being represented by an arrow 96 on the figure 4 .
  • the boss 50 of the support 44 of the handle 46 comes to rest on the face 84 of the first element 64 of the safety device 62, as illustrated in the figure 4 .
  • the bump 50 resting on the face 84, generates a force whose moment is jointly opposed to the moment of the weight of the device 62 and to the moment of the contact force between the stops 86 and the lugs 90.
  • the device 62 is thus pushed back by the boss 50 and also pivots around the axis X32 in the direction of arrow 96, that is to say here in the clockwise direction.
  • the stop 86 still cooperates with the lug 90.
  • the side 88 is still in contact with the support surface 92, preventing any translation movement of the device 62 and thus preventing the tilting of the upper rod 26 despite the moment of the tension force of the spring 56.
  • the lugs 90 and the stops 86 are projections which together constitute a retaining device, which prevents the movements of the lower connecting rod 22, and therefore of the toggle 16, while the lever 10 is in a position intermediate beyond the neutral position.
  • the stops 86 are provided on the second element 66 of the safety device 62, while the lugs 90 are provided on the lock 40, which is housed in the internal volume 82 of the safety device 62.
  • the retaining device and the securing device safety device 62 include common parts, and by extension the retaining device is integrated into the safety device 62.
  • the retainer prevents the switching mechanism 4 from moving the contacts 6 and 8 to their open state.
  • the angle ⁇ is strictly positive, and the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 has a non-zero value, which does not depend on the speed of movement of the lever 10, but depends on the value of the angle ⁇ in the release position of lever 10.
  • the upper connecting rod 26 then tilts around the rocker axis 8 does not depend on the speed of movement of the lever 10, but depends on the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 when the lever 10 is in the release position.
  • the spring 56 and the geometry of the parts are designed so that the speed of separation of the contacts 6 and 8 is sufficient to reduce the risks arcing to an acceptable level during manual opening.
  • the angle ⁇ is greater than a strictly positive minimum value so that the moment of the force of the spring 56 is non-zero. Conversely, too large an angle ⁇ is preferably avoided so that the device 2 is not too bulky.
  • the angle ⁇ in the release position of the lever 10 is for example between 1° and 6°, preferably between 2° and 5°, more preferably between 3° and 4°.
  • the bumps 50 bear on the face 84 of the central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70, preventing the rotation of the handle 46 in the direction of the arrow 94, this is that is to say preventing the rotation of the lever 10 beyond the release position.
  • the device 62 is in a so-called “advanced” position, as shown in the Figure 5 , in which the notches 78 are located opposite the bosses 50 and allow the pivoting movement to continue of lever 10 beyond the release position. Lever 10 is then in the open position.
  • the lock 40 then pivots, clockwise on the figure 1 , around the axis with lugs 90.
  • the retaining device does not interfere with the proper functioning of the device 62 and the lock 40 neither in the case of automatic triggering nor in the case of manual opening.
  • hook 34 pivots counterclockwise around axis X34, driving with it the upper connecting rod 26 in rotation around axis X34, which closes the angle ⁇ .
  • the moment of the force exerted by the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 then causes the upper connecting rod 26 to tilt around the rocker axis X30, the upper connecting rod 26 carrying the connecting rod with it lower 22.
  • the lower connecting rod 22 then pulls the toggle 16, which folds and moves the movable contact 8 away from the fixed contact 6.
  • the switching device 2 is then open.
  • the safety device 62 is held in position by gravity, under the effect of its own weight.
  • a return device such as a spring, can be provided to maintain the stops 86 facing the lugs 90 when the switching device 2 is in the closed configuration.
  • a plate of the type of plate 70 is able to deform elastically under the action of the bumps 50, while the second element 66, which comprises the stops 86, is rigid.
  • the stops 86 face the lugs 90.
  • the plate has a convexity oriented towards the second element 66, and the second element 66, and therefore the stops 86, move away from the plate, in a position where the stops 86 no longer cooperate with the lugs 90.

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  • Driving Mechanisms And Operating Circuits Of Arc-Extinguishing High-Tension Switches (AREA)
  • Mechanisms For Operating Contacts (AREA)

Description

La présente invention concerne un appareil de commutation électrique.The present invention relates to an electrical switching apparatus.

L'invention se rapporte notamment au domaine des appareils de commutation électrique à contacts séparables, tels que des disjoncteurs à boitier moulé ou des interrupteurs.The invention relates in particular to the field of electrical switching devices with separable contacts, such as molded case circuit breakers or switches.

De tels appareils de commutation à contacts séparables comportent un mécanisme de commutation qui a pour fonction de déplacer des contacts électriques de l'appareil entre un état ouvert et un état fermé, par exemple en réponse à une action d'un déclencheur ou d'un opérateur.Such switching devices with separable contacts comprise a switching mechanism which has the function of moving electrical contacts of the device between an open state and a closed state, for example in response to an action of a trigger or a operator.

Plusieurs types de mécanismes de commutation sont connus, en particulier les mécanismes de commutation à bascule, dits aussi « tumbler » en anglais.Several types of switching mechanisms are known, in particular toggle switching mechanisms, also called “tumbler” in English.

FR 2 687 249-A1 décrit par exemple un disjoncteur comprenant un tel mécanisme de commutation à bascule. Ce mécanisme de commutation comprend une genouillère articulée, qui est reliée à un contact mobile d'une part et est entraînée par une bielle inférieure d'autre part. La bielle inférieure est articulée avec une bielle supérieure, elle-même montée basculante sur un crochet, le crochet coopérant avec un verrou de maintien du crochet en position verrouillée. Le mécanisme de commutation comprend, en outre, un levier de commande qui pivote autour d'un axe fixe et qui est relié à une extrémité d'un ressort, une autre extrémité du ressort étant liée à l'axe de la genouillère par l'intermédiaire de la bielle supérieure. Lorsque le mécanisme de commutation est à l'état fermé, le ressort tend conjointement à maintenir la poignée dans une position de fermeture, tend à maintenir la bielle supérieure dans une première position et tend à déplacer le crochet hors de sa position à l'état verrouillé. FR 2 687 249-A1 describes for example a circuit breaker comprising such a toggle switching mechanism. This switching mechanism comprises an articulated toggle, which is connected to a movable contact on the one hand and is driven by a lower connecting rod on the other hand. The lower connecting rod is articulated with an upper connecting rod, itself tiltably mounted on a hook, the hook cooperating with a lock for holding the hook in the locked position. The switching mechanism further comprises a control lever which pivots about a fixed axis and which is connected to one end of a spring, another end of the spring being connected to the axis of the toggle lever by the intermediate of the upper connecting rod. When the switching mechanism is in the closed state, the spring jointly tends to hold the handle in a closed position, tends to hold the upper link in a first position and tends to move the hook out of its position in the closed state. Locked.

Ces mécanismes connus peuvent cependant présenter des problèmes lors d'une ouverture manuelle, c'est-à-dire que lorsque le mécanisme de commutation est à l'état fermé et qu'un opérateur fait pivoter le levier vers une position d'ouverture afin de faire passer le mécanisme de commutation à l'état ouvert.These known mechanisms can, however, present problems during manual opening, that is to say when the switching mechanism is in the closed state and an operator pivots the lever towards an open position in order to to move the switching mechanism to the open state.

Il a notamment pu être observé que lorsqu'un opérateur manipule le levier de commande pour ouvrir les contacts électriques, la vitesse de l'ouverture des contacts peut être tributaire de la vitesse déplacement du levier. Lorsque la vitesse de mouvement du levier est lente, ou que le mécanisme de commutation est usé, il arrive, notamment au passage de la position de point-mort du mécanisme, que ce dernier ne parvienne pas à ouvrir les contacts avec une vitesse suffisante, ce qui les empêche de s'ouvrir correctement. Cela peut entrainer l'apparition d'arcs électriques entre les contacts électriques et risque d'endommager, voire de souder l'un à l'autre les contacts électriques, ce qui empêche l'appareil de commutation d'interrompre correctement le courant.It was notably observed that when an operator manipulates the control lever to open the electrical contacts, the speed of opening of the contacts can be dependent on the speed of movement of the lever. When the speed of movement of the lever is slow, or the switching mechanism is worn, it happens, particularly when passing the neutral position of the mechanism, that the latter fails to open the contacts with sufficient speed, which prevents them from opening properly. This can cause arcing between the electrical contacts and may damage or even weld the electrical contacts together, preventing the switching device from properly interrupting the current.

US-4 935 712-A décrit un tel dispositif selon le préambule de la revendication 1, qui demande la mise en place de pièces spécifiques dans le mécanisme de commutation, ce qui n'est pas toujours réalisable sans avoir à concevoir un nouveau mécanisme. US-4,935,712-A describes such a device according to the preamble of claim 1, which requires the installation of specific parts in the switching mechanism, which is not always achievable without having to design a new mechanism.

C'est à ces problèmes qu'entend plus particulièrement remédier l'invention, en proposant un appareil de commutation dont la vitesse d'ouverture des contacts est indépendante de la vitesse d'actionnement du levier de commande.It is these problems that the invention seeks to remedy more particularly, by proposing a switching device whose contact opening speed is independent of the actuation speed of the control lever.

À cet effet, l'invention concerne un appareil de commutation électrique selon la revendication 1.To this end, the invention relates to an electrical switching device according to claim 1.

Grâce à l'invention, la vitesse d'ouverture des contacts est indépendante de la vitesse du levier. L'ouverture des contacts commence alors que le levier est dans une position intermédiaire décalée par rapport au point mort, où le ressort génère sur les pièces du mécanisme de commutation un moment de rotation suffisant pour séparer les contacts avec une vitesse suffisante. L'apparition d'arcs électriques est limitée, et la durabilité des contacts électriques et du mécanisme de commutation s'en trouve allongée.Thanks to the invention, the opening speed of the contacts is independent of the speed of the lever. The opening of the contacts begins while the lever is in an intermediate position offset from neutral, where the spring generates sufficient rotational moment on the parts of the switching mechanism to separate the contacts with sufficient speed. The occurrence of electric arcs is limited, and the durability of the electrical contacts and the switching mechanism is extended.

Selon des aspects avantageux mais non obligatoires de l'invention, un tel support peut incorporer une ou plusieurs des caractéristiques suivantes prises selon toute combinaison techniquement admissible :

  • Les deux saillies sont une butée et un ergot, la butée étant liée à la plaquette tandis que l'ergot est lié au verrou.
  • Tant que le levier est entre la position de fermeture et la deuxième position intermédiaire, le dispositif de sécurité, soumis à son poids, est dans une position telle que la butée reste en regard de l'ergot du verrou.
  • Le dispositif de sécurité est réalisé en métal.
  • Le dispositif de sécurité comprend un premier élément, sur lequel est ménagé la plaquette, et un deuxième élément, relié au premier élément et sur lequel est ménagé la butée.
  • Le verrou est pivotant autour d'un axe de pivotement, alors que le deuxième élément est relié à une extrémité de la plaquette, le premier élément et le deuxième élément définissant entre eux un volume interne, dans lequel est logé l'axe de pivotement du verrou, de manière à limiter l'amplitude des mouvements du dispositif de sécurité lorsque la butée ne coopère pas avec l'ergot.
  • La position de point mort et la deuxième position intermédiaire du levier définissent entre elles un angle compris entre 1° et 6°, de préférence entre 2° et 5°, de préférence encore entre 3° et 4°.
  • L'appareil de commutation est un disjoncteur.
According to advantageous but not obligatory aspects of the invention, such a support can incorporate one or more of the following characteristics taken in any technically admissible combination:
  • The two projections are a stop and a lug, the stop being linked to the plate while the lug is linked to the lock.
  • As long as the lever is between the closed position and the second intermediate position, the safety device, subject to its weight, is in a position such that the stop remains facing the pin of the lock.
  • The safety device is made of metal.
  • The safety device comprises a first element, on which the plate is provided, and a second element, connected to the first element and on which the stop is provided.
  • The lock pivots around a pivot axis, while the second element is connected to one end of the plate, the first element and the second element defining between them an internal volume, in which the pivot axis of the lock, so as to limit the amplitude of movements of the safety device when the stop does not cooperate with the lug.
  • The neutral position and the second intermediate position of the lever define between them an angle of between 1° and 6°, preferably between 2° and 5°, more preferably between 3° and 4°.
  • The switching device is a circuit breaker.

L'invention sera mieux comprise, et d'autres avantages de celle-ci apparaîtront plus clairement à la lumière de la description qui va suivre, d'un mode de réalisation d'un appareil de commutation et d'un disjoncteur comprenant un tel appareil conformes à son principe, donnée uniquement à titre d'exemple et faite en référence aux dessins annexés, dans lesquels :

  • [Fig 1] la figure 1 est une représentation schématique d'un appareil de commutation électrique comprenant un dispositif de retenue conforme à l'invention suivant une vue de côté, certaines pièces de l'appareil de commutation étant cachées pour faciliter la lecture ;
  • [Fig 2] la figure 2 est une vue analogue à la figure 1, l'appareil de commutation étant dans une deuxième configuration différente de celle de la figure 1 ;
  • [Fig 3] la figure 3 est une vue analogue à la figure 1, l'appareil de commutation étant représenté dans une troisième configuration, différente des précédentes ;
  • [Fig 4] la figure 4 est une vue du détail IV sur la figure 3, certaines pièces étant cachées pour faciliter la lecture ; et
  • [Fig 5] la figure 5 est une vue analogue aux figures 1 à 3, l'appareil de commutation étant représenté dans une quatrième configuration différente de celles des figures 1 à 3.
The invention will be better understood, and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the description which follows, of an embodiment of a switching device and of a circuit breaker comprising such a device. conform to its principle, given solely by way of example and made with reference to the appended drawings, in which:
  • [ Figure 1 ] there figure 1 is a schematic representation of an electrical switching device comprising a retaining device according to the invention in a side view, certain parts of the switching device being hidden to facilitate reading;
  • [ Figure 2 ] there figure 2 is a view analogous to the figure 1 , the switching device being in a second configuration different from that of the figure 1 ;
  • [ Figure 3 ] there Figure 3 is a view analogous to the figure 1 , the switching device being represented in a third configuration, different from the previous ones;
  • [ Figure 4 ] there figure 4 is a view of detail IV on the Figure 3 , some parts being hidden to facilitate reading; And
  • [ Figure 5 ] there figure 5 is a view analogous to figures 1 to 3 , the switching device being represented in a fourth configuration different from those of the figures 1 to 3 .

La figure 1 représente un appareil de commutation électrique 2, tel qu'un disjoncteur à contacts séparables, notamment un disjoncteur à boitier moulé.There figure 1 represents an electrical switching device 2, such as a circuit breaker with separable contacts, in particular a molded case circuit breaker.

Cet exemple n'est pas limitatif et, en variante, l'appareil 2 peut être un autre type d'appareil de commutation électrique, tel qu'un interrupteur ou un contacteur.This example is not limiting and, alternatively, the device 2 can be another type of electrical switching device, such as a switch or a contactor.

Dans l'exemple illustré, l'appareil de commutation 2 comprend un mécanisme de commutation 4, configuré pour sélectivement mettre en contact ou séparer un contact électrique fixe 6 et un contact électrique mobile 8.In the example illustrated, the switching device 2 comprises a switching mechanism 4, configured to selectively bring into contact or separate a fixed electrical contact 6 and a movable electrical contact 8.

Les contacts fixe 6 et mobile 8 sont ainsi des contacts séparables, qui sont respectivement connectés à des bornes de raccordement de l'appareil 2 et sont par exemple associés à un pôle.The fixed contacts 6 and mobile 8 are thus separable contacts, which are respectively connected to connection terminals of the device 2 and are for example associated with a pole.

Selon des exemples, l'appareil 2 est multipolaire et comprend alors une paire de contacts séparables 6 et 8 par pôle. Le mécanisme 4 est alors commun aux pôles. Ce qui est décrit est vrai pour un pôle et est transposable aux autres pôles, ces derniers n'étant pas décrits pour ne pas surcharger la demande.According to examples, the device 2 is multipolar and then comprises a pair of separable contacts 6 and 8 per pole. Mechanism 4 is then common to the poles. What is described is true for one pole and can be transposed to other poles, the latter not being described so as not to overload demand.

L'appareil de commutation 2 est prévu pour être actionné manuellement au moyen d'un levier de commande 10. L'appareil de commutation 2 peut aussi comporter un déclencheur 12, par exemple un déclencheur électronique ou un déclencheur électromécanique.The switching device 2 is intended to be operated manually by means of a control lever 10. The switching device 2 can also include a trigger 12, for example an electronic trigger or an electromechanical trigger.

Sur la figure 1, le mécanisme de commutation 4 est représenté dans une configuration dite « de fermeture », dans lequel le contact mobile 8 est en contact avec le contact fixe 6, autorisant ainsi la circulation d'un courant électrique. Les contacts 6 et 8 sont dans un état dit « état fermé ».On the figure 1 , the switching mechanism 4 is represented in a so-called “closing” configuration, in which the movable contact 8 is in contact with the fixed contact 6, thus authorizing the circulation of an electric current. Contacts 6 and 8 are in a state called “closed state”.

Lorsque le contact mobile est séparé du contact fixe 6 et n'est pas électriquement relié avec le contact fixe 8, les contacts 6 et 8 sont dans un état dit « ouvert » et le mécanisme de commutation 4 est dans une configuration dite « d'ouverture ».When the movable contact is separated from the fixed contact 6 and is not electrically connected with the fixed contact 8, the contacts 6 and 8 are in a so-called "open" state and the switching mechanism 4 is in a so-called "open" configuration. opening ".

Selon des exemples, l'appareil de commutation 2 comprend un châssis 14, représenté partiellement, sur lequel sont montés au moins une partie des éléments de l'appareil de commutation 2.According to examples, the switching device 2 comprises a chassis 14, partially shown, on which at least part of the elements of the switching device 2 are mounted.

Le châssis 14 peut être placé à l'intérieur d'un boitier, non représenté, qui est réalisé dans un matériau électriquement isolant.The chassis 14 can be placed inside a housing, not shown, which is made of an electrically insulating material.

Selon des exemples, le contact fixe 6 est fixe par rapport au châssis 14, tandis que le contact mobile 8 est monté pivotant par rapport au châssis 14 autour d'un axe principal X8.According to examples, the fixed contact 6 is fixed relative to the chassis 14, while the movable contact 8 is mounted to pivot relative to the chassis 14 around a main axis X8.

Dans la suite de la description, sauf mention spécifique, les mouvements de rotation des pièces se font autour d'axes respectifs parallèles à l'axe principal X8, et les mouvements de translation des pièces se font dans des plans orthogonaux à l'axe principal X8. Dans l'exemple illustré sur les figures 1, 2, 3 et 5, l'axe X8 est perpendiculaire au plan géométrique des figures.In the remainder of the description, unless specifically mentioned, the rotational movements of the parts are made around respective axes parallel to the main axis X8, and the translation movements of the parts are made in planes orthogonal to the main axis X8. In the example illustrated on the figures 1 , 2 , 3 And 5 , the axis X8 is perpendicular to the geometric plane of the figures.

Les mouvements du contact mobile 8 sont liés au mécanisme de commutation 4, qui comprend ici une liaison de type « à genouillère » 16. Cette liaison est simplement nommée « genouillère 16 » dans la suite de la description.The movements of the mobile contact 8 are linked to the switching mechanism 4, which here includes a “toggle” type connection 16. This connection is simply called “toggle 16” in the remainder of the description.

La genouillère 16 comprend une bielle basse 18 et une bielle haute 20, qui sont articulées entre elles à une de leurs extrémités respectives autour d'un axe X16 de la genouillère 16.The toggle 16 comprises a low connecting rod 18 and a high connecting rod 20, which are articulated together at one of their respective ends around an axis X16 of the toggle 16.

L'axe X16 est parallèle à l'axe principal X8.Axis X16 is parallel to main axis X8.

La bielle 18 est montée, à l'extrémité opposée de l'axe X16, pivotante sur le contact mobile 8 autour d'un axe X18, qui est parallèle à l'axe principal X8.The connecting rod 18 is mounted, at the opposite end of the axis X16, pivoting on the movable contact 8 around an axis X18, which is parallel to the main axis X8.

De façon analogue, la bielle 20 est montée pivotante par rapport au châssis 14 autour d'un axe, non représenté, parallèle à l'axe principal X8 et situé à l'extrémité opposée de l'extrémité comportant l'axe X16. La bielle haute 20 est liée à un arbre, dit « arbre des pôles », qui sert à synchroniser l'ouverture de plusieurs appareils de commutation, du type de l'appareil de commutation 2, montés en parallèle. L'arbre des pôles n'est pas dessiné sur les figures.Analogously, the connecting rod 20 is pivotally mounted relative to the chassis 14 around an axis, not shown, parallel to the main axis X8 and located at the opposite end of the end comprising the axis X16. The high connecting rod 20 is linked to a shaft, called “tree of poles", which serves to synchronize the opening of several switching devices, of the type of switching device 2, connected in parallel. The pole tree is not drawn in the figures.

Lorsque le mécanisme 4 est dans la configuration de fermeture, la genouillère 16 est dans une configuration dite « déployée », dans laquelle les bielles 18 et 20 forment entre elles un angle d'amplitude maximale, proche de 180° mais strictement inférieur à 180°, et les contacts séparables 6 et 8 sont à l'état fermé. Dans la configuration d'ouverture représentée sur la figure 5, la genouillère 16 est complètement repliée, c'est-à-dire que les bielles 18 et 20 forment entre elles un angle d'amplitude minimale mais non nul, et les contacts séparables 6 et 8 sont dits « complètement ouverts ».When the mechanism 4 is in the closed configuration, the toggle lever 16 is in a so-called “deployed” configuration, in which the connecting rods 18 and 20 form between them an angle of maximum amplitude, close to 180° but strictly less than 180° , and the separable contacts 6 and 8 are in the closed state. In the opening configuration shown on the figure 5 , the toggle 16 is completely folded, that is to say that the connecting rods 18 and 20 form between them an angle of minimal but not zero amplitude, and the separable contacts 6 and 8 are said to be “completely open”.

La genouillère 16 est actionnée par une bielle inférieure 22, qui présente ici une forme de crochet. La bielle 22 présente une première extrémité, montée pivotante par rapport à la bielle haute 20 autour d'un axe voisin de l'axe X16 et parallèle à l'axe X16, et une deuxième extrémité qui accueille une tige 24. La tige 24 est ici cylindrique et centrée sur un axe X24 parallèle à l'axe principal X8.The toggle lever 16 is actuated by a lower connecting rod 22, which here has a hook shape. The connecting rod 22 has a first end, pivotally mounted relative to the upper connecting rod 20 around an axis close to the axis X16 and parallel to the axis X16, and a second end which accommodates a rod 24. The rod 24 is here cylindrical and centered on an axis X24 parallel to the main axis X8.

Le mécanisme 4 comprend aussi une bielle supérieure 26 reliée à la tige 24.The mechanism 4 also includes an upper connecting rod 26 connected to the rod 24.

Sur les dessins, bien que la bielle inférieure 22 soit située à la même hauteur que la bielle haute 20, la bielle 22 est appelée bielle inférieure 22 car elle est située au-dessous de la bielle supérieure 26. Les qualificatifs « haut », « bas », « inférieur », « supérieur » sont choisis en référence à l'orientation de l'appareil de commutation 2 sur les dessins, et ne préjugent pas d'un fonctionnement particulier de l'appareil 2.In the drawings, although the lower connecting rod 22 is located at the same height as the upper connecting rod 20, the connecting rod 22 is called lower connecting rod 22 because it is located below the upper connecting rod 26. The qualifiers "high", " bottom”, “lower”, “upper” are chosen with reference to the orientation of the switching device 2 in the drawings, and do not prejudge a particular operation of the device 2.

En particulier, l'appareil de commutation 2 est préférablement destiné à être monté de manière que le haut est orienté vers la gauche des dessins, ainsi que représenté par une flèche F1 sur les figures 1 à 3 et 5. Le sens de la gravité terrestre est orienté à l'opposé de la flèche F1, c'est-à-dire horizontalement vers la droite des dessins.In particular, the switching device 2 is preferably intended to be mounted so that the top is oriented towards the left of the drawings, as shown by an arrow F1 on the figures 1 to 3 And 5 . The direction of earth's gravity is oriented opposite the arrow F1, that is to say horizontally towards the right of the drawings.

La bielle supérieure 26, visible partiellement sur les figures, présente dans cet exemple un corps central en forme de triangle, dont l'un des sommets présente une surface d'appui 28. Un deuxième sommet du triangle accueille la tige 24 liée à la bielle inférieure 22. Un troisième sommet du triangle présente un axe de bascule X30. La bielle supérieure 26 présente, au voisinage du deuxième sommet, un prolongement qui accueille une tige 32, la tige 32 étant centrée sur un axe X32 parallèle à l'axe principal X8.The upper connecting rod 26, partially visible in the figures, has in this example a central body in the shape of a triangle, one of the vertices of which has a bearing surface 28. A second vertex of the triangle accommodates the rod 24 linked to the connecting rod lower 22. A third vertex of the triangle has a tilt axis X30. The upper connecting rod 26 has, in the vicinity of the second vertex, an extension which accommodates a rod 32, the rod 32 being centered on an axis X32 parallel to the main axis X8.

Selon des modes de réalisation alternatifs, le mécanisme de commutation 4 pourrait ne pas comporter la genouillère 16 entrainée par les bielles 22 et 26. D'autres structures de mécanismes de commutation 4 sont possibles, ces structures remplissant les mêmes fonctions que le mécanisme 4 illustré.According to alternative embodiments, the switching mechanism 4 could not include the toggle lever 16 driven by the connecting rods 22 and 26. Other structures of switching mechanisms 4 are possible, these structures fulfilling the same functions as the mechanism 4 illustrated .

Dans l'exemple illustré, l'axe de bascule X30, parallèle à l'axe principal X8, est ménagé dans une partie intermédiaire d'un crochet 34.In the example illustrated, the rocker axis X30, parallel to the main axis X8, is provided in an intermediate part of a hook 34.

Le crochet 34 présente une ici forme allongée, avec une première extrémité montée pivotante par rapport au châssis 14 autour d'un axe X34 parallèle à l'axe X8, et une deuxième extrémité dans laquelle est ménagé un ergot 36.The hook 34 here has an elongated shape, with a first end mounted to pivot relative to the frame 14 around an axis X34 parallel to the axis X8, and a second end in which a lug 36 is provided.

Une tige 38, de forme cylindrique, est disposée coaxialement à l'axe X34. Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée à la figure 1, la surface d'appui 28 de la bielle supérieure 26 est au contact de la tige 38.A rod 38, of cylindrical shape, is arranged coaxially with the axis X34. In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , the bearing surface 28 of the upper connecting rod 26 is in contact with the rod 38.

L'ergot 36 coopère avec un verrou 40. Le verrou 40 est monté pivotant par rapport au châssis 14 autour d'un axe X40, parallèle à l'axe X8. Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée à la figure 1, une extrémité du verrou 40 coopère avec un cliquet 42, le cliquet 42 empêchant les mouvements de rotation dans le sens horaire du verrou 40 autour de l'axe X40. Le cliquet 42 est parfois appelé « verrou demi-lune ».The lug 36 cooperates with a lock 40. The lock 40 is pivotally mounted relative to the frame 14 around an axis X40, parallel to the axis X8. In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , one end of the lock 40 cooperates with a pawl 42, the pawl 42 preventing clockwise rotational movements of the lock 40 around the axis X40. The pawl 42 is sometimes called a “half-moon lock”.

En pratique, le cliquet 42 coopère avec un déclencheur et permet l'actionnement automatique du mécanisme par le déclencheur, sans intervention manuelle d'un opérateur.In practice, the pawl 42 cooperates with a trigger and allows automatic actuation of the mechanism by the trigger, without manual intervention by an operator.

On comprend ainsi que le cliquet 42 est indépendant de l'invention et qu'il pourrait être omis.We thus understand that the pawl 42 is independent of the invention and that it could be omitted.

Selon des exemples, le levier de commande 10 comprend un support 44 et une poignée 46. La poignée 46 est solidaire du support 44, lequel est monté pivotant autour d'un axe de pivotement X47, qui est solidaire du bâti 14 et parallèle à l'axe principal X8. Dans la configuration de fermeture représentée sur les figures 1 à 3, l'axe X47 est confondu avec l'axe X24, alors que dans la configuration d'ouverture, l'axe X47 est distinct de l'axe X24. Par exemple, le support 44 présente une forme d'étrier symétrique par rapport à un plan orthogonal à l'axe principal X8. Le support 44 comprend des bras 48, disposés radialement par rapport à l'axe de pivotement X47. Chaque bras 48 présente, à une extrémité distale de l'axe X47, une bosse 50.According to examples, the control lever 10 comprises a support 44 and a handle 46. The handle 46 is secured to the support 44, which is pivotally mounted around a pivot axis X47, which is secured to the frame 14 and parallel to the main axis X8. In the closing configuration shown on the figures 1 to 3 , axis X47 is confused with axis X24, whereas in the opening configuration, axis X47 is distinct from axis X24. For example, the support 44 has a stirrup shape symmetrical with respect to a plane orthogonal to the main axis X8. The support 44 comprises arms 48, arranged radially relative to the pivot axis X47. Each arm 48 has, at a distal end of the axis X47, a boss 50.

Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée en figure 1, le levier 10 est dans une première position extrême stable dite « de fermeture ». Dans la configuration d'ouverture illustrée en figure 5, dans laquelle les contacts séparables 6 et 8 sont complètement ouverts, le levier 10 est dans une autre position extrême stable dite « d'ouverture ».In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , the lever 10 is in a first stable extreme position called “closing”. In the opening configuration shown in Figure 5 , in which the separable contacts 6 and 8 are completely open, the lever 10 is in another stable extreme position called “opening”.

Le support 44 coopère ici avec une tige de fixation 52, qui est rattachée à une première extrémité 54 d'un ressort 56, tandis qu'une deuxième extrémité 58 du ressort 56 coopère avec la tige 32.The support 44 here cooperates with a fixing rod 52, which is attached to a first end 54 of a spring 56, while a second end 58 of the spring 56 cooperates with the rod 32.

Dans l'exemple illustré, le ressort 56 est un ressort hélicoïdal qui s'étend suivant une direction représentée par un axe A56. L'axe A56 est ainsi situé dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe X32.In the example illustrated, the spring 56 is a helical spring which extends in a direction represented by an axis A56. Axis A56 is thus located in a plane orthogonal to axis X32.

Le ressort 56 est conçu pour être en tension quelle que soit la position relative de la poignée 46 par rapport à la bielle supérieure 26.The spring 56 is designed to be in tension regardless of the relative position of the handle 46 relative to the upper connecting rod 26.

On définit aussi un axe neutre A60 de la bielle supérieure 26 comme étant un axe reliant l'axe X32 de la tige 32 et l'axe de bascule X30 de la bielle 26. L'axe neutre A60 est situé dans un plan orthogonal à l'axe X32.We also define a neutral axis A60 of the upper connecting rod 26 as being an axis connecting the axis X32 of the rod 32 and the rocker axis X30 of the connecting rod 26. The neutral axis A60 is located in a plane orthogonal to the axis X32.

L'axe neutre A60 et l'axe A56 du ressort 56 sont tous deux sécants à l'axe X32 et définissent entre eux un angle de bascule α. Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée à la figure 1, le levier 10 est en position de fermeture et l'angle de bascule α est négatif.The neutral axis A60 and the axis A56 of the spring 56 are both intersecting with the axis X32 and define between them a tilt angle α. In the closing configuration illustrated in figure 1 , the lever 10 is in the closed position and the tilt angle α is negative.

Dans la configuration d'ouverture représentée à la figure 5, le levier 10 est en position d'ouverture et l'angle de bascule α est positif.In the opening configuration shown in Figure 5 , the lever 10 is in the open position and the tilt angle α is positive.

On définit une position dite « de point-mort » du levier 10 comme étant une position intermédiaire entre les positions d'ouverture et de fermeture du levier 10. Dans l'exemple illustré, la position de point mort correspond à une position dans laquelle l'axe neutre A60 et l'axe A56 du ressort 56 sont alignés. L'angle α est alors nul.A so-called “neutral” position of the lever 10 is defined as being an intermediate position between the opening and closing positions of the lever 10. In the example illustrated, the neutral position corresponds to a position in which the The neutral axis A60 and the axis A56 of the spring 56 are aligned. The angle α is then zero.

Le mécanisme 4 comprend, en outre, un dispositif de sécurité 62, qui empêche de mettre le levier 10 en position d'ouverture tant que les contacts séparables 6 et 8 ne sont pas complètement ouverts.The mechanism 4 further comprises a safety device 62, which prevents the lever 10 from being put in the open position as long as the separable contacts 6 and 8 are not completely open.

Le dispositif de sécurité 62 comprend un premier élément 64, assemblé à un deuxième élément 66 au moyen d'organes de liaison 68, qui sont des rivets dans l'exemple illustré.The safety device 62 comprises a first element 64, assembled to a second element 66 by means of connecting members 68, which are rivets in the example illustrated.

Le premier élément 64 comporte, dans une partie centrale, une plaquette 70, qui est formée par exemple par découpage puis par pliage. La plaquette 70 est prolongée, à une première extrémité, par un crochet 72.The first element 64 comprises, in a central part, a plate 70, which is formed for example by cutting then by folding. The plate 70 is extended, at a first end, by a hook 72.

Le crochet 72 ici est situé dans un plan à la fois orthogonal à la plaquette 70 et orthogonal à l'axe principal X8. Le crochet 72 coopère avec la tige 32 de manière à lier en translation le premier élément 64 par rapport à la tige 32. Autrement dit, le dispositif de sécurité 62 est articulé en rotation par rapport à la bielle inférieure 22 autour de l'axe X32 de la tige 32.The hook 72 here is located in a plane both orthogonal to the plate 70 and orthogonal to the main axis X8. The hook 72 cooperates with the rod 32 so as to link the first element 64 in translation relative to the rod 32. In other words, the safety device 62 is articulated in rotation relative to the lower connecting rod 22 around the axis X32 of the rod 32.

La partie centrale du premier élément 64 comportant la plaquette 70 traverse une fente 74 du verrou 40 et présente, à une deuxième extrémité opposée du crochet 72, une partie recourbée 76, orientée vers le deuxième élément 66. Des encoches 78, visibles sur la figure 4, sont ménagées dans la partie centrale 70, du côté opposé de la partie recourbée 76.The central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70 passes through a slot 74 of the lock 40 and has, at a second opposite end of the hook 72, a curved part 76, oriented towards the second element 66. Notches 78, visible on the Figure 4 , are provided in the central part 70, on the opposite side of the curved part 76.

Le deuxième élément 66 présente ici une forme plate, produite par exemple par découpage puis par pliage d'une tôle. Le deuxième élément 66 est relié par une première extrémité au premier élément 64 au voisinage du crochet 72 et comprend, à une deuxième extrémité opposée à la première extrémité, un rebord 80 orienté vers le premier élément 64 et situé en regard de la partie recourbée 76.The second element 66 here has a flat shape, produced for example by cutting and then folding a sheet metal. The second element 66 is connected by a first end to the first element 64 in the vicinity of the hook 72 and comprises, at a second end opposite the first end, a rim 80 oriented towards the first element 64 and located opposite the curved part 76.

Le premier élément 64 et le deuxième élément 66 définissent entre eux un volume interne 82, dans lequel est logé l'axe X40 de pivotement du verrou 40.The first element 64 and the second element 66 define between them an internal volume 82, in which the pivot axis X40 of the lock 40 is housed.

L'axe X40 est logé avec du jeu dans le volume interne 82, limitant l'amplitude des mouvements de rotation du dispositif de sécurité 62 autour de l'axe X32.The axis X40 is housed with play in the internal volume 82, limiting the amplitude of the rotational movements of the safety device 62 around the axis X32.

On définit une face 84 comme étant une face de la partie centrale du premier élément 64 comportant la plaquette 70 orientée à l'opposé du volume interne 82.A face 84 is defined as being a face of the central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70 oriented opposite the internal volume 82.

Le deuxième élément 66 comprend, en outre, des butées latérales 86, ménagées sur des bords du deuxième élément 66 entre les première et deuxième extrémités. Les butés 86 sont bien visibles sur la figure 4. Chaque butée 86 présente, dans l'exemple illustré, une forme de triangle rectangle allongé, avec un grand côté relié au deuxième élément 66, un petit côté 88 et une hypoténuse, le petit côté 88 et l'hypoténuse étant libres, le petit côté étant orienté vers le rebord 80.The second element 66 further comprises lateral stops 86, provided on edges of the second element 66 between the first and second ends. The stops 86 are clearly visible on the figure 4 . Each stop 86 has, in the example illustrated, the shape of an elongated right triangle, with a long side connected to the second element 66, a short side 88 and a hypotenuse, the short side 88 and the hypotenuse being free, the short side being oriented towards the rim 80.

Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée sur les figures 1 et 2, les butées 86 sont en regard d'ergots 90 du verrou 40, mais sans qu'il y ait de force de contact générée entre les butées 86 et les ergots 90. Le dispositif de sécurité 62 est soumis à son propre poids, représenté par une flèche F62 sur les figures 2 et 3, qui exerce un moment tendant à faire tourner le dispositif 62 autour de l'axe X32 dans le sens antihoraire sur les dessins. Ce moment tend à maintenir les butées 86 en regard des ergots 90. L'amplitude du mouvement du dispositif de sécurité 62 est limitée par l'axe X40 de pivotement du verrou 40 logé au sein du volume interne 82.In the closing configuration illustrated on the figures 1 And 2 , the stops 86 face lugs 90 of the lock 40, but there is no contact force generated between the stops 86 and the lugs 90. The safety device 62 is subjected to its own weight, represented by an arrow F62 on the figure 2 And 3 , which exerts a moment tending to rotate the device 62 around the axis X32 in the counterclockwise direction in the drawings. This moment tends to maintain the stops 86 facing the lugs 90. The amplitude of the movement of the safety device 62 is limited by the pivot axis X40 of the lock 40 housed within the internal volume 82.

Dans la configuration de la figure 3, les butées 86 coopèrent avec les ergots 90, c'est-à-dire qu'une force de contact est générée entre les butées 86 et les ergots 90.In the configuration of the Figure 3 , the stops 86 cooperate with the lugs 90, that is to say that a contact force is generated between the stops 86 and the lugs 90.

Les ergots 90 sont disposés radialement à l'axe X40 et présentent chacun une surface d'appui 92, orientée à l'opposé de l'axe X40.The lugs 90 are arranged radially to the axis X40 and each have a bearing surface 92, oriented opposite the axis X40.

Dans la configuration de fermeture, les petits côtés 88 des butées 86 sont en appui sur les surfaces 92 des ergots 90, générant une force de contact qui tend à maintenir les butées 86 en regard des ergots 90.In the closed configuration, the short sides 88 of the stops 86 bear on the surfaces 92 of the lugs 90, generating a contact force which tends to maintain the stops 86 facing the lugs 90.

Plus précisément, dans l'exemple illustré, le moment résultant de la force de contact entre les butées 86 et les ergots 90 tend à faire pivoter le dispositif de sécurité 62 autour de l'axe X32 dans le sens antihoraire sur les figures, c'est-à-dire vers le haut.More precisely, in the example illustrated, the moment resulting from the contact force between the stops 86 and the lugs 90 tends to rotate the safety device 62 around the axis X32 in the counterclockwise direction in the figures, this that is to say upwards.

On décrit à présent le fonctionnement de l'appareil de commutation 2.We now describe the operation of the switching device 2.

Dans la configuration de fermeture illustrée sur la figure 1, le levier 10 est en position de fermeture, et l'angle α présente une valeur minimale, c'est-à-dire que l'angle α est négatif et présente une valeur absolue maximale.In the closing configuration illustrated on the figure 1 , the lever 10 is in the closed position, and the angle α has a minimum value, that is to say that the angle α is negative and has a maximum absolute value.

L'ergot 36 du crochet 34 est logé dans la fente 74 du verrou 40, lequel est retenu par le cliquet 42.The lug 36 of the hook 34 is housed in the slot 74 of the lock 40, which is retained by the pawl 42.

Le ressort 56, en tension, maintient la bielle supérieure 26 au contact de la tige 38.The spring 56, in tension, maintains the upper connecting rod 26 in contact with the rod 38.

La bielle inférieure 22 repousse la genouillère 16 dans la configuration déployée, dans laquelle la bielle basse 18 maintient les contacts séparables 6 et 8 à l'état fermé.The lower connecting rod 22 pushes the toggle lever 16 into the deployed configuration, in which the lower connecting rod 18 maintains the separable contacts 6 and 8 in the closed state.

Le dispositif de sécurité 62, soumis à son poids F62, est dans une position telle que les butées 86 restent en regard des ergots 90 du verrou 40.The safety device 62, subjected to its weight F62, is in a position such that the stops 86 remain facing the lugs 90 of the lock 40.

Pour faire manuellement passer l'appareil 2 de l'état fermé vers l'état ouvert, un opérateur fait pivoter le levier 10 autour de l'axe de pivotement X47 depuis la position de fermeture vers la position d'ouverture. Dans l'exemple illustré sur les figures, cela correspond à un mouvement de pivotement du levier 10 dans le sens horaire. Le mouvement de la poignée 46 est représenté par une flèche 94 sur les figures 1 à 3.To manually move the device 2 from the closed state to the open state, an operator pivots the lever 10 around the pivot axis X47 from the closed position to the open position. In the example illustrated in the figures, this corresponds to a pivoting movement of the lever 10 in a clockwise direction. The movement of the handle 46 is represented by an arrow 94 on the figures 1 to 3 .

À mesure que le mouvement de la poignée 46 suivant la direction de la flèche 94 se poursuit, le levier 10 passe par une position intermédiaire entre la position de fermeture et la position de point mort, tel que représenté sur la figure 2.As the movement of the handle 46 in the direction of the arrow 94 continues, the lever 10 passes through an intermediate position between the closed position and the neutral position, as shown in the figure. figure 2 .

La tension du ressort 56 maintient la surface 28 de la bielle supérieure 26 en appui sur la tige 38. Ainsi, le ressort 56 exerce un couple qui s'oppose au déplacement du levier 10 par l'opérateur et maintient les contacts séparables 6 et 8 à l'état fermé.The tension of the spring 56 maintains the surface 28 of the upper connecting rod 26 resting on the rod 38. Thus, the spring 56 exerts a torque which opposes the movement of the lever 10 by the operator and maintains the separable contacts 6 and 8 in the closed state.

Dans cette configuration, si l'opérateur relâche le levier 10, le levier 10 revient, sous l'action du ressort 56, dans la position de fermeture illustrée sur la figure 1. En ce sens, dans la configuration de fermeture de l'appareil 2, l'état fermé des contacts séparables 6 et 8 est un état stable.In this configuration, if the operator releases lever 10, lever 10 returns, under the action of spring 56, to the closed position illustrated on the figure 1 . In this sense, in the closing configuration of the device 2, the closed state of the separable contacts 6 and 8 is a stable state.

Si, au contraire, l'opérateur continue à déplacer le levier 10 vers la position d'ouverture, le levier 10 passe par la position de point-mort. L'angle α est nul, c'est-à-dire lorsque l'axe A56 du ressort 56 est aligné avec l'axe neutre A60 et le moment de la force de tension du ressort 56 sur la bielle supérieure 26 est lui-aussi nul.If, on the contrary, the operator continues to move the lever 10 towards the open position, the lever 10 passes through the neutral position. The angle α is zero, that is to say when the axis A56 of the spring 56 is aligned with the neutral axis A60 and the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 is also null.

Toutefois, à ce stade, il est souhaitable que les contacts 6 et 8 ne soient pas ouverts prématurément.However, at this stage, it is desirable that contacts 6 and 8 are not opened prematurely.

La coopération des butées 86 avec les ergots 90 empêche tout mouvement de translation de la bielle inférieure 22, empêchant le mécanisme de commutation 4 de déplacer les contacts 6 et 8 vers leur état ouvert tant que l'angle de bascule α n'est pas strictement positif.The cooperation of the stops 86 with the lugs 90 prevents any translation movement of the lower connecting rod 22, preventing the switching mechanism 4 from moving the contacts 6 and 8 towards their open state as long as the tilt angle α is not strictly positive.

Sur la figure 3, le levier 10 est représenté dans une autre position intermédiaire entre le point-mort et la position d'ouverture. Dans cette autre position intermédiaire, l'angle α est strictement positif, c'est-à-dire que l'axe A56 du ressort 56 est situé de l'autre côté de l'axe neutre A60 par rapport aux configurations de fermeture ou intermédiaire représentées sur les figures 1 ou 2.On the Figure 3 , the lever 10 is shown in another intermediate position between the dead center and the open position. In this other intermediate position, the angle α is strictly positive, that is to say that the axis A56 of the spring 56 is located on the other side of the axis neutral A60 compared to the closing or intermediate configurations shown on the figures 1 Or 2 .

Le moment de la force de tension du ressort 56 sur la bielle supérieure 26 tend à faire basculer la bielle supérieure 26 autour de l'axe de bascule X30 dans le sens antihoraire sur la figure 3. Cependant le mouvement de bascule de la bielle supérieure 26 est empêché du fait de la coopération des butées 86 avec les ergots 90 du verrou 40.The moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 tends to tilt the upper connecting rod 26 around the rocker axis X30 counterclockwise on the Figure 3 . However, the tilting movement of the upper connecting rod 26 is prevented due to the cooperation of the stops 86 with the lugs 90 of the lock 40.

Conjointement, le moment de la force de tension du ressort 56 sur le levier 10, transmis par l'intermédiaire du support 44, ne s'oppose plus au mouvement du levier suivant la flèche 94 mais, au contraire, accompagne l'effort de l'opérateur et entraîne le levier 10 vers la position d'ouverture. Autrement dit, le ressort 56 exerce une force qui entraîne les contacts 6 et 8 vers l'état ouvert.Together, the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the lever 10, transmitted via the support 44, no longer opposes the movement of the lever following the arrow 94 but, on the contrary, accompanies the effort of the operator and drives lever 10 towards the open position. In other words, spring 56 exerts a force which drives contacts 6 and 8 towards the open state.

La bosse 50 étant solidaire de la poignée 46, le mouvement de pivotement du levier 10 est repris par la bosse 50, le mouvement de la bosse 50 étant représenté par une flèche 96 sur la figure 4. Conjointement, la bosse 50 du support 44 de la poignée 46 arrive en appui sur la face 84 du premier élément 64 du dispositif de sécurité 62, ainsi qu'illustré sur la figure 4.The boss 50 being integral with the handle 46, the pivoting movement of the lever 10 is taken up by the boss 50, the movement of the boss 50 being represented by an arrow 96 on the figure 4 . At the same time, the boss 50 of the support 44 of the handle 46 comes to rest on the face 84 of the first element 64 of the safety device 62, as illustrated in the figure 4 .

La bosse 50, en appui sur la face 84, génère une force dont le moment s'oppose conjointement au moment du poids du dispositif 62 et au moment de la force de contact entre les butées 86 et les ergots 90. Le dispositif 62 est ainsi repoussé par la bosse 50 et pivote lui aussi autour de l'axe X32 dans la direction de la flèche 96, c'est-à-dire ici dans le sens horaire.The bump 50, resting on the face 84, generates a force whose moment is jointly opposed to the moment of the weight of the device 62 and to the moment of the contact force between the stops 86 and the lugs 90. The device 62 is thus pushed back by the boss 50 and also pivots around the axis X32 in the direction of arrow 96, that is to say here in the clockwise direction.

Dans la configuration intermédiaire de la figure 4, la butée 86 coopère encore avec l'ergot 90. Autrement dit, le côté 88 est encore au contact de la surface d'appui 92, empêchant tout mouvement de translation du dispositif 62 et empêchant ainsi le basculement de la bielle supérieure 26 malgré le moment de la force de tension du ressort 56.In the intermediate configuration of the figure 4 , the stop 86 still cooperates with the lug 90. In other words, the side 88 is still in contact with the support surface 92, preventing any translation movement of the device 62 and thus preventing the tilting of the upper rod 26 despite the moment of the tension force of the spring 56.

En d'autres termes, les ergots 90 et les butées 86 sont des saillies qui constituent ensemble un dispositif de retenue, qui empêche les mouvements de la bielle inférieure 22, et donc de la genouillère 16, alors que le levier 10 est dans une position intermédiaire au-delà de la position de point mort.In other words, the lugs 90 and the stops 86 are projections which together constitute a retaining device, which prevents the movements of the lower connecting rod 22, and therefore of the toggle 16, while the lever 10 is in a position intermediate beyond the neutral position.

Les butées 86 sont ménagées sur le deuxième élément 66 du dispositif de sécurité 62, tandis que les ergots 90 sont ménagés sur le verrou 40, qui est logé dans le volume interne 82 du dispositif de sécurité 62. Le dispositif de retenue et le dispositif de sécurité 62 comprennent des pièces communes, et par extension le dispositif de retenue est intégré au dispositif de sécurité 62.The stops 86 are provided on the second element 66 of the safety device 62, while the lugs 90 are provided on the lock 40, which is housed in the internal volume 82 of the safety device 62. The retaining device and the securing device safety device 62 include common parts, and by extension the retaining device is integrated into the safety device 62.

Le mouvement de la poignée 46 se poursuivant dans le même sens, ici illustré par la flèche 94, le mouvement de la bosse 50 suivant la flèche 96 se poursuit aussi, jusqu'à ce que le levier 10 atteigne une position dite « de libération », dans laquelle les butées 86 ne coopèrent plus avec les ergots 90. Le mouvement de translation du dispositif 62 sous l'action du ressort 56 n'est plus empêché.The movement of the handle 46 continuing in the same direction, here illustrated by the arrow 94, the movement of the bump 50 following the arrow 96 also continues, until the lever 10 reaches a so-called “release” position. , in which the stops 86 no longer cooperate with the lugs 90. The translation movement of the device 62 under the action of the spring 56 is no longer prevented.

Autrement dit, tant que la poignée 10 n'a pas dépassé la position de libération, qui est une position intermédiaire entre la position de point mort et la position d'ouverture, le dispositif de retenue empêche le mécanisme de commutation 4 de déplacer les contacts 6 et 8 vers leur état ouvert.In other words, as long as the handle 10 has not passed the release position, which is an intermediate position between the neutral position and the open position, the retainer prevents the switching mechanism 4 from moving the contacts 6 and 8 to their open state.

Dans la position de libération du levier 10, l'angle α est strictement positif, et le moment de la force de tension du ressort 56 sur la bielle supérieure 26 présente une valeur non nulle, qui ne dépend pas de la vitesse du mouvement du levier 10, mais dépend de la valeur de l'angle α dans la position de libération du levier 10.In the release position of the lever 10, the angle α is strictly positive, and the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 has a non-zero value, which does not depend on the speed of movement of the lever 10, but depends on the value of the angle α in the release position of lever 10.

La bielle supérieure 26 bascule alors autour de l'axe de bascule X30, entraînant la bielle inférieure 22, laquelle replie la genouillère 16, ce qui sépare le contact mobile 8 du contact fixe 6. En particulier, la vitesse de séparation des contacts 6 et 8 ne dépend pas de la vitesse du mouvement du levier 10, mais dépend du moment de la force de tension du ressort 56 lorsque le levier 10 est en position de libération.The upper connecting rod 26 then tilts around the rocker axis 8 does not depend on the speed of movement of the lever 10, but depends on the moment of the tension force of the spring 56 when the lever 10 is in the release position.

De préférence, le ressort 56 et la géométrie des pièces, en particulier la valeur l'angle α lorsque le levier 10 est dans la position de libération, sont conçus pour que la vitesse de séparation des contacts 6 et 8 soit suffisante pour réduire les risques d'arcs électriques à un niveau acceptable lors d'une ouverture manuelle.Preferably, the spring 56 and the geometry of the parts, in particular the value of the angle α when the lever 10 is in the release position, are designed so that the speed of separation of the contacts 6 and 8 is sufficient to reduce the risks arcing to an acceptable level during manual opening.

Dans la position de libération du levier 10, on comprend que l'angle α est supérieur à une valeur minimale strictement positive pour que le moment de la force du ressort 56 soit non nul. À l'inverse, un angle α trop grand est de préférence évité pour que l'appareil 2 ne soit pas trop encombrant.In the release position of the lever 10, it is understood that the angle α is greater than a strictly positive minimum value so that the moment of the force of the spring 56 is non-zero. Conversely, too large an angle α is preferably avoided so that the device 2 is not too bulky.

En pratique, l'angle α dans la position de libération du levier 10 est par exemple compris entre 1° et 6°, de préférence compris entre 2° et 5°, de préférence encore entre 3° et 4°.In practice, the angle α in the release position of the lever 10 is for example between 1° and 6°, preferably between 2° and 5°, more preferably between 3° and 4°.

Au cours du mouvement de translation du dispositif 62, les bosses 50 sont en appui sur la face 84 de la partie centrale du premier élément 64 comportant la plaquette 70, empêchant la rotation de la poignée 46 dans la direction de la flèche 94, c'est-à-dire empêchant la rotation du levier 10 au-delà de la position de libération.During the translation movement of the device 62, the bumps 50 bear on the face 84 of the central part of the first element 64 comprising the plate 70, preventing the rotation of the handle 46 in the direction of the arrow 94, this is that is to say preventing the rotation of the lever 10 beyond the release position.

Une fois le repli de la genouillère 16 terminé, le dispositif 62 est dans une position dite « avancée », telle que représentée dans la figure 5, dans laquelle les encoches 78 sont situées en regard des bosses 50 et autorisent la poursuite du mouvement de pivotement du levier 10 au-delà de la position de libération. Le levier 10 est alors dans la position d'ouverture.Once the folding of the toggle 16 is complete, the device 62 is in a so-called “advanced” position, as shown in the Figure 5 , in which the notches 78 are located opposite the bosses 50 and allow the pivoting movement to continue of lever 10 beyond the release position. Lever 10 is then in the open position.

À l'inverse, si pour une raison quelconque le mouvement de la genouillère 16 est empêché au cours de la manoeuvre, par exemple si les contacts fixe et mobile 6 et 8 sont soudés l'un à l'autre à la suite d'un défaut électrique, le mouvement de repli de la genouillère 16, et donc du dispositif 62, est empêché. Le levier 10, actionné par un opérateur, ne peut être mis dans la position d'ouverture représentée sur la figure 5, mais reste bloqué dans la position de libération, avertissant l'opérateur d'une situation anormale.Conversely, if for any reason the movement of the toggle lever 16 is prevented during the maneuver, for example if the fixed and mobile contacts 6 and 8 are welded together following a electrical fault, the folding movement of the toggle 16, and therefore of the device 62, is prevented. The lever 10, actuated by an operator, cannot be put in the open position shown on the Figure 5 , but remains stuck in the release position, warning the operator of an abnormal situation.

Dans le cas d'un déclenchement automatique de l'appareil de commutation 2, qui est à l'état fermé tel que représenté sur la figure 1, le cliquet 42, sous l'action d'une commande extérieure, libère le verrou 40.In the case of automatic triggering of the switching device 2, which is in the closed state as shown in the figure 1 , the pawl 42, under the action of an external command, releases the lock 40.

Le verrou 40 pivote alors, dans le sens horaire sur la figure 1, autour de l'axe X40, libérant l'ergot 36 du crochet 34. Conjointement, la rotation du verrou 40 autour de l'axe X40 entraîne la rotation des ergots 90 autour de l'axe X40, interrompant ainsi la coopération des butées 86 avec les ergots 90.The lock 40 then pivots, clockwise on the figure 1 , around the axis with lugs 90.

On comprend que le dispositif de retenue ne gêne pas le bon fonctionnement du dispositif 62 et du verrou 40 ni dans le cas d'un déclenchement automatique, ni dans le cas d'une ouverture manuelle.It is understood that the retaining device does not interfere with the proper functioning of the device 62 and the lock 40 neither in the case of automatic triggering nor in the case of manual opening.

Sous la tension du ressort 56, le crochet 34 pivote dans le sens antihoraire autour de l'axe X34, entraînant avec lui la bielle supérieure 26 en rotation autour de l'axe X34, ce qui referme l'angle α.Under the tension of spring 56, hook 34 pivots counterclockwise around axis X34, driving with it the upper connecting rod 26 in rotation around axis X34, which closes the angle α.

Lorsque l'angle α atteint une valeur positive, le moment de la force exercée par le ressort 56 sur la bielle supérieure 26 fait alors basculer la bielle supérieure 26 autour de l'axe de bascule X30, la bielle supérieure 26 entraînant avec elle la bielle inférieure 22. La bielle inférieure 22 tire alors la genouillère 16, qui se replie et éloigne le contact mobile 8 du contact fixe 6. L'appareil de commutation 2 est alors ouvert.When the angle α reaches a positive value, the moment of the force exerted by the spring 56 on the upper connecting rod 26 then causes the upper connecting rod 26 to tilt around the rocker axis X30, the upper connecting rod 26 carrying the connecting rod with it lower 22. The lower connecting rod 22 then pulls the toggle 16, which folds and moves the movable contact 8 away from the fixed contact 6. The switching device 2 is then open.

Dans l'exemple illustré, le dispositif de sécurité 62 est maintenu en position par gravité, sous l'effet de son propre poids. En variante non illustrée, un dispositif de rappel, tel qu'un ressort, peut être prévu pour maintenir les butées 86 en regard des ergots 90 lorsque l'appareil de commutation 2 est en configuration de fermeture.In the example illustrated, the safety device 62 is held in position by gravity, under the effect of its own weight. As a variant not illustrated, a return device, such as a spring, can be provided to maintain the stops 86 facing the lugs 90 when the switching device 2 is in the closed configuration.

Selon une autre variante non illustrée, une plaquette du type de la plaquette 70 est apte à se déformer élastiquement sous l'action des bosses 50, tandis que le deuxième élément 66, qui comprend les butées 86, est rigide. Lorsque la plaquette n'est pas déformée, les butées 86 sont en regard des ergots 90. Lorsque la plaquette est déformée sous l'action des bosses 50, la plaquette présente une convexité orientée vers le deuxième élément 66, et le deuxième élément 66, et donc les butées 86, s'éloignent de la plaquette, dans une position où les butées 86 ne coopèrent plus avec les ergots 90.According to another variant not illustrated, a plate of the type of plate 70 is able to deform elastically under the action of the bumps 50, while the second element 66, which comprises the stops 86, is rigid. When the plate is not deformed, the stops 86 face the lugs 90. When the plate is deformed under the action of the bumps 50, the plate has a convexity oriented towards the second element 66, and the second element 66, and therefore the stops 86, move away from the plate, in a position where the stops 86 no longer cooperate with the lugs 90.

Claims (8)

  1. Electrical switching device (2) having separable electrical contacts (6, 8), a switching device (4) and an operating lever (10), wherein:
    - the switching device (4) is designed to reversibly and selectively move the separable contacts (6, 8) between a stable closed state and a stable open state,
    - the control lever (10) can be moved between a closed position and an open position,
    - the switching mechanism (4) is configured to move the separable contacts from their closed state to their open state when the lever is moved from its closed position to its open position, and to this end comprises a spring (56) which, between the closed position of the lever (10) and a first intermediate position known as the "dead centre" position, exerts a force opposing the movement of the lever and which, between the dead centre position and the open position of the lever, exerts a force which drives the contacts (6, 8) towards the open state,
    - the switching mechanism (4) comprises a retaining device (86, 90) which is configured to prevent the switching mechanism (4) from moving the contacts (6, 8) to their open state, when the lever (10) is moved from the closed position to the open position and the lever has not passed a second intermediate position located between the dead centre position and the open position, characterised in that the switching mechanism (4) comprises a safety device (62) which prevents movements of the lever (10) from the second intermediate position to the open position as long as the separable contacts (6, 8) are not fully open, in that one of the separable contacts (6, 8) is a movable contact (8) connected to the switching mechanism (4), the safety device (62) comprising a plate (70) which is connected to the movable contact and which cooperates with a latch (40) for automatic release of the switching mechanism, and in that the retaining device comprises two projections (86, 90) which together form the retaining device respectively connected to the plate and to the latch, the two projections co-operating together so that the plate prevents the movements of the moving contact (8), the lever (10) further being connected to a pusher (50) which is provided in order, when the lever is in the second intermediate position, to push back the plate (70) into a position in which the two projections no longer co-operate together, and
    in that the retaining device (86, 90) is integrated into the safety device.
  2. Switching device (2) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that the two projections are a stop (86) and a lug (90), the stop being connected to the plate (70) while the lug is connected to the lock (40).
  3. Switching device (2) according to the preceding claim, characterised in that as long as the lever (10) is between the closed position and the second intermediate position, the safety device (62), subjected to its weight (F62), is in a position such that the stop (86) remains opposite the lug (90) of the lock (40).
  4. Switching device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the safety device (62) comprises a first element (64), on which the plate (70) is formed, and a second element (66), connected to the first element and on which the stop (86) is formed.
  5. Switching device (2) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the safety device (62) is made of metal.
  6. Switching device (2) according to claims 2 and 4, characterised in that the latch (40) is pivotable about a pivot axis (X40) and in that the second element (66) is connected to one end of the plate (70), the first element (64) and the second element (66) defining between them an internal volume (82), in which the pivot pin (X40) of the lock (40) is housed, so as to limit the amplitude of the movements of the safety device (62) when the stop (86) does not cooperate with the lug (90).
  7. Switching device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the neutral position and the second intermediate position of the lever (10) together define an angle of between 1° and 6°, preferably between 2° and 5°, still more preferably between 3° and 4°.
  8. Switching device (4) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterised in that the switching device is a circuit breaker.
EP20211350.2A 2019-12-03 2020-12-02 Electrical switching device with separable contacts and circuit breaker comprising such a device Active EP3832688B1 (en)

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FR1913658A FR3103959B1 (en) 2019-12-03 2019-12-03 Electric switching device with separable contacts and circuit breaker comprising such a device

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EP3832688B1 true EP3832688B1 (en) 2023-11-08

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FR2687249B1 (en) 1992-02-07 1994-04-01 Merlin Gerin CONTROL MECHANISM OF A MOLDED BOX CIRCUIT BREAKER.
US6373009B1 (en) * 2000-02-14 2002-04-16 Eaton Corporation Fail safe safety switch
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CN106158528B (en) * 2015-04-28 2018-10-19 上海电科电器科技有限公司 The melting welding interrupter of the operating mechanism of breaker

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CN112908744A (en) 2021-06-04
FR3103959B1 (en) 2022-06-10
US11205553B2 (en) 2021-12-21
ES2971080T3 (en) 2024-06-03
FR3103959A1 (en) 2021-06-04
US20210166906A1 (en) 2021-06-03
EP3832688A1 (en) 2021-06-09

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