JP2013008607A - Current switch and dc current switch - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To interrupt the current of a DC and/or low frequency AC high voltage and/or large current path without generating arc discharge.SOLUTION: The current switch includes an electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitive element. One end of the capacitive element is connected with the electrode 2, and the other end of the capacitive element is connected with the electrode 3. A potential having one polarity of an external power supply is applied to the electrode 1, and a potential having the other polarity of an external power supply is output or not output to the electrode 3. The switch section of the current switch is closed when the electrodes 1, 2 and 3 are in contact state, and the switch section of the current switch is open when the electrodes 2 and 3 are in separation state.

Description

  The present invention corresponds to high voltage direct current, high voltage low frequency alternating current, large current direct current and large current low frequency alternating current in the current switch, and can correspond to high voltage direct current and large current direct current in the direct current switch. The present invention relates to a current switch and a direct current switch.

When cutting off high-voltage and / or high-current direct current, arc discharge occurs between the electrodes of the direct current switch, and direct current is not easy to interrupt compared to alternating current, so the direct current switch eliminates arc discharge. Therefore, the AC power of the system (commercial power supply) has been conventionally converted to direct current (batteries during power outages, etc.) even for loads (servers, etc.) such as data centers where the equipment is large and expensive, and it is desirable to supply direct current. In addition, the direct current is converted into alternating current to supply power, and each load converts the alternating current into direct current and supplies power to the load at the end load.
At each of these conversions, power loss occurs, and equipment construction is expensive and requires many equipment models because of the high equipment price.
Furthermore, in recent years, it is also related to CO ₂ emission regulations, etc., DC / AC conversion, and high-voltage DC power supply system with excellent power efficiency that does not require AC / DC conversion (DC conversion of system power supply and step-down just before load) A method of supplying high-voltage direct current to a DC / DC converter) has been studied.
Therefore, in the high-voltage and / or large-current DC power supply method, there is a problem to solve the above-described problem that DC interruption is difficult.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-208829

Patent Document 1 relates to a DC circuit breaker, but has the following problems.
Hereinafter, paragraph “0028” of the specification of this application will be described with reference to the following.
“As shown in FIG. 1, this circuit breaker includes a pair of leaf springs 10 (elastic electrodes) fixed to the conductive support plate 11 and a fixed electrode 20 that is always in contact with the leaf spring 10. The insulating plate 30 is inserted / removed between the fixed electrode 20 and the fixed electrode 20 to conduct / cut off. ”
The above is a part of the description of Patent Document 1.
In general, the conductive contact portion of both electrodes in a switch (switch), regardless of whether it is direct current or alternating current, is subjected to surface processing by unevenness, and when both electrodes are closed (conductive state), the conductive contact portion of both electrodes The concave and convex portions are in contact with each other and are conductive. Therefore, it is difficult to insert an object between the two conductive contact portions (even if it is a tapered plate having a thin tip portion).
Further, in order to facilitate the insertion, if the concave and convex portions are not formed on both the conductive contact portions and a smooth flat surface is used, the contact conductive property at both conductive contact portions is generally poor.
When the surface of the conductive contact portion is processed by unevenness, the contact conductivity of both conductive contact portions is good.

In view of the above situation, the current switch and the direct current switch of the present invention insert an insulator between the electrodes when the electrodes are opened to disconnect the switch in a high-voltage and / or large-current DC current. Without realizing this, it is possible to prevent arc discharge from occurring between the two conductive contact portions.
Furthermore, the current switch of the present invention realizes a current switch that cuts off current without generating arc discharge even in a high-frequency and / or large-current low-frequency alternating current.

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention has the following configuration.
(1) A current switch according to claim 1 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the capacitive element,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the capacitive element,
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. And the electrode 3 are separated and become non-conductive, current flows from the electrode 2 to the portion via the capacitive element and the external load, and arc discharge occurs between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. It does not occur.
(2) A current switch according to claim 2 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the capacitive element,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the capacitive element,
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. The potential difference between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 is “0” or very small for a moment when the electrode 3 is separated from the electrode 3, and no arc discharge is generated between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3.
(3) The current switch according to claim 3 is the current switch according to claim 1 or 2,
By maintaining the conductive state in which the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in contact with each other, the electrode 2 and the electrode 1 are brought into contact with each other to be in a conductive state, whereby the potential of the one polarity of the external power source is applied to the electrode 3. It is characterized by outputting.
(4) A DC current switch according to claim 4 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the series connection circuit,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the series connection circuit,
The rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power source;
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. And the electrode 3 are separated from each other and become non-conductive, current flows from the electrode 2 to the portion via the series connection circuit and the external load, and an arc discharge occurs between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. Is not generated.
(5) A DC current switch according to claim 5 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the series connection circuit,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the series connection circuit,
The rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power source;
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. The potential difference between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 is almost “0” or very small for a moment when the electrode 3 is separated from the electrode 3, and no arc discharge is generated between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3.
(6) A current switch according to claim 6 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
One end of the capacitive element is connected to the electrode 2, the other end of the capacitive element is connected to the electrode 3, and the electrode 1 is an electrode to which a potential of one polarity of an external power source is applied, The electrode 3 is an electrode that outputs or does not output the external potential of the one polarity. When the electrode 1, the electrode 2, and the electrode 3 are in contact, the switch of the current switch is closed. Yes, when the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a separated state, the switch of the current switch is open.
(7) A DC current switch according to claim 7 is:
An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
One end of the series connection circuit is connected to the electrode 2, the other end of the series connection circuit is connected to the electrode 3, and the electrode 1 is an electrode to which a potential of one polarity of an external power supply is applied. And the rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power supply, and the electrode 3 outputs or does not output the potential of the one polarity of the external power supply. When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in contact, the DC current switch is closed, and when the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are separated, the direct current The opening / closing part of the switch is open.
(8) A current switch according to an eighth aspect is any one of the first, second, third, or sixth aspect,
A resistance element 1 is connected in parallel to both ends of the capacitive element.
(9) A DC current switch according to claim 7 is the method of any of claims 4, 5 or 7,
A resistance element 1 is connected in parallel to both ends of the capacitive element.
(10) A DC current switch according to claim 8 is the method of any one of claims 4, 5 and 7,
A resistance element 2 is connected in parallel to both ends of the rectifying element.

(A) The current switch according to the present invention can cut off high voltage direct current, high voltage low frequency alternating current, large current direct current and large current low frequency alternating current without causing arc discharge.
(B) The direct current switch according to the present invention can cut off high voltage direct current and large current direct current without causing arc discharge.
(C) The current switch and DC current switch according to the present invention do not generate arc discharge when the switch is turned off (OFF), and are extremely small and simple in structure and low in manufacturing cost as compared with the prior art. .
(D) In particular, when the current switch and the DC current switch according to the present invention are used for a high voltage, the current capacity flowing through the switch is reduced, so that further miniaturization can be realized.
(E) The arc discharge erasure switch of the prior art accepts that the occurrence of arc discharge cannot be prevented originally, and how to reduce the generated arc discharge, or how to erase the generated arc discharge. However, the current switch and the direct current switch according to the present invention are switches that do not generate arc discharge itself.

These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the direct current switch which applied the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the direct current switch which applied the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the direct current switch which applied the current switch by this invention. These are the block diagrams which show embodiment of the direct current switch which applied the current switch by this invention.

Prior to the description of each embodiment, the basic items of the present invention will be described.
The basic technical idea of the present invention common to each embodiment is that when the current switch which is the embodiment of the current switch of the present invention is turned off (OFF), the contact is made when the current switch is turned on. At the moment when both electrodes start separating, the potential difference between both electrodes is set to “0” by the capacitive element. Similarly, the direct current switch according to the embodiment of the direct current switch using the current switch of the present invention is used. When the switch is turned off (OFF), the potential difference between the two electrodes is made extremely small by the capacitive element at the moment when both electrodes in contact with the DC current switch start to separate. The arc discharge is not generated in order to be generated.

(1) Embodiment of current switch (1-1) Hardware structure and electric circuit configuration FIGS. 1 to 4 are schematic hardware showing the basic principle of a current switch according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is structural drawing (electrode 1, electrode 2, and electrode 3) and electric circuit structure (C and R1).
Note that incidental elements not related to the basic part of the present invention are omitted in the drawings, but will be described in the description in the specification.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 1-4, the hardware structure and electric circuit structure which are embodiment of the current switch of this invention are demonstrated.
The switch of the current switch according to the present invention is composed of an electrode 1 indicated by Et1, an electrode 2 indicated by Et2, and an electrode 3 indicated by Et3 in FIGS. 1 to 4, and the electrode 2Et2 and the electrode 3Et3 are separated from each other. The electrode 2Et2 and the electrode 3Et3 are non-conducting, or the electrode 2Et2 and the electrode 3Et3 are brought into contact with each other, and the electrode 2Et2 and the electrode 3Et3 are brought into conduction, thereby exhibiting the function of the switch.

The electrode 2Et2 and the electrode 3Et3 are separated from each other, the current of the opening / closing part is interrupted (power supply to the load is interrupted), and thereafter, the electrode 1Et1 and the electrode 2Et2 are separated from each other.
Hereinafter, the electrode 1Et1, the electrode 2Et2, and the electrode 3Et3 are simply referred to as an electrode Et1, an electrode Et2, and an electrode Et3, respectively.
In the claims, these electrodes are referred to as electrode 1, electrode 2, and electrode 3, respectively.

However, only the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3 have a switching function within a normal voltage / current range in which arc discharge does not occur (that is, within a voltage / current range in which a normal switch is used). However, even if it is not high voltage direct current, high voltage alternating current, high voltage, or high voltage direct current, or not high voltage, arc discharge occurs when the high current alternating current is interrupted, and the switch cannot be turned off.

That is, the current switch according to the present invention and the direct current switch according to the present invention to be described later are arc discharge only in the mechanical part including each electrode (that is, excluding the capacitive element C which is the basic technical idea of the present invention). It is only necessary to satisfy the withstand voltage and current capacity in a normal voltage range that is not conscious of the arc, and arc discharge prevention is realized by an electric circuit.
Therefore, the current switch according to the present invention and the switch part of the direct current switch according to the present invention, which will be described later, do not require a device for extinguishing arc discharge, and become compact.
In addition, the high voltage (high voltage), the low voltage (low voltage), the voltage that is not a high voltage, and the high voltage direct current and the alternating current (frequency) are qualitative expressions. Therefore, the description will be supplemented later.

In order to prevent arc discharge, a capacitive element represented by “C” in FIGS. 1 to 4 (hereinafter referred to as a capacitive element C. In the claims, it is referred to as a capacitive element) is required.
Note that a resistance element represented by R1 (hereinafter referred to as the resistance element R1. In the claims, referred to as the resistance element 1) is connected in parallel to the capacitor element C as necessary.

In the current switch of the present invention, there are a current path 3 represented by Li3, a current path 4 represented by Li4, and a current path 5 represented by Li5.
The current path 3, the current path 4, and the current path 5 connect a parallel connection circuit of the capacitive element C and the resistance element R1 between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.
Hereinafter, the current path 3, the current path 4, and the current path 5 are referred to as a current path Li3, a current path Li4, and a current path Li5, respectively.
Further, the load L operation current path connecting the electrode Et3 and the potential output terminal T3 represented by T3 is a current path Li3.
In the current path Li3, the current path Li4, and the current path Li5, the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are connected by the capacitive element C.

An electrode Et1 is connected by a current path 1 represented by Li1 to a terminal T1 represented by T1 to which a potential of one polarity of an external power supply is applied.
A potential output terminal T4 represented by T4 is connected by a current path 2 represented by Li2 to a terminal T2 represented by T2 to which a potential of the other polarity of the external power supply is applied.
Hereinafter, the current path 1 and the current path 2 are referred to as a current path Li1 and a current path Li2, respectively.

In the current switch of the present invention, the terminal T2, the current path Li2, and the terminal T4 that transmit the potential of the other polarity are not essential elements.
That is, if the current path Li3 of one polarity of the external power supply is interrupted, the current is interrupted. Therefore, in the current switch according to the present invention, the terminal T2, the current path Li2, and the terminal T4 are not essential elements.

When the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3 are all in contact (closed), the potential of the terminal T1 is output to the terminal T3.

The connection relationship of each element will be described.
The electrode Et1 is connected to the terminal T1 through the current path Li1.
The terminal T4 is connected to the terminal T2 via the current path Li2.

One end of a parallel connection circuit of the capacitive element C and the resistive element R1 is connected to the electrode Et2 via the current path Li4.

The other end of the parallel connection circuit of the capacitive element C and the resistive element R1 is connected to the terminal T3 via the current path Li5.

The electrode Et3 is connected to the terminal T3 through the current path Li3.
A load L, which is an external element, is connected between the terminals T3 and T4.

An electrode Et2 exists between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et3.
The electrode Et1 may be fixed to a casing of a current switch (not shown), and the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are movable with respect to the electrode Et1.

It is optional whether the electrode Et1 is fixed or movable, and these three electrodes are all separated from each other to make the current switch non-conductive, or all the electrodes are brought into contact with each other to make a current switch. The electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2. It is possible to contact Et2 with the electrode Et3.

The original switch operation of the current switch of the present invention, that is, the supply / non-supply (cutoff) of power to the load L is performed by the contact / non-contact (separation) of the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.
The separation between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 is when the current switch is completely turned off after the load L current is cut off.

The normal disconnection of the current switch of the present invention is that only the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 while the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are in contact with each other.
The normal second interruption of the current switch according to the present invention is the separation between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2, and is when the current switch is completely turned off.
The normal conduction of the current switch of the present invention is to bring the electrode Et2 into contact with the electrode Et1 in a state where the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are in contact.

The operation of the three electrodes is assumed to be performed by an external force (solenoid, motor, spring, manual, etc.) outside the present invention (not shown).

  The separation operation of each of these three electrodes may be performed by looking straight at FIG. 2 and, as shown in FIG. 2, by moving the electrode Et3 upward in parallel with the electrode Et1 as a reference, or separating from the electrode Et2. Although not shown in the figure, the electrode Et3 is moved horizontally in the horizontal direction to be separated from the electrode Et2, or the electrode Et3 is rotated away from the electrode Et2 in the above separation method, or any other separation operation is allowed. Is optional.

3, the electrode Et2 is translated upward from the electrode Et1 and separated from the electrode Et1 with reference to the electrode Et1, or the electrode Et2 is moved horizontally in the horizontal direction (not shown). The electrode Et1 can be separated from the electrode Et1, or the electrode Et2 can be separated from the electrode Et1 by rotating the electrode Et2 in the above-described separation method, or any other separation operation can be performed.

Alternatively, in FIG. 2, the electrode Et3 is translated upward from the electrode Et2 and separated from the electrode Et2, or although not shown, the electrode Et3 is horizontally moved laterally and separated from the electrode Et2. Alternatively, in the above-described separation method, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 with rotation, or any other separation operation is allowed and optional.

Furthermore, in FIG. 2, the electrode Et1 is translated downward from the electrode Et2 with reference to the electrode Et2, or is separated from the electrode Et2 by moving the electrode Et1 horizontally in the horizontal direction, although not shown. In the above-described separation method, the electrode Et1 is rotated and separated from the electrode Et2, or any other separation operation is allowed and optional.

In FIG. 2, the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are moved downward in parallel with respect to the electrode Et3 and separated from the electrode Et3, or although not shown, the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are moved horizontally in the horizontal direction. The electrode Et3 may be separated from the electrode Et3, or the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 may be separated from the electrode Et3 by rotation in the above-described separation method, or any other separation operation may be permitted.

In FIG. 4, the electrode Et3 may be brought into contact with the electrode Et2 with the electrode Et2 as a reference. This is the previous stage in which the electrode Et2 is brought into contact with the electrode Et1 and the current switch is turned ON in this state.

The electrode separation operation and the contact operation take opposite paths to the above-described separation operations.
In this way, it is possible to move other electrodes with reference to any one of the three electrodes.

  The fact that such an operation is possible is because no arc discharge occurs between the electrodes that are spaced apart from each other, and if the current capacity between the electrodes can be ensured, any shape and separation form of the electrodes is possible. This gives the degree of freedom of shape and freedom of separation operation.

  Supplementing the above, since there is no distinction between up and down and left and right depending on the position of the switch, there are innumerable electrode separation directions in polar coordinates. Whether or not is set as the reference position for the separation operation is a problem in use in manufacturing the switch, and there is no need to specify these.

Which electrode combination is contact / non-contact controls the potential of one end and the other end of the capacitive element C, which is the basic technical idea of the current switch of the present invention and the direct current switch of the present invention (capacitance). (Charging / discharging of the element C).

In addition, the movement for separating each electrode requires a support for making the movement free and maintaining the movement trajectory. However, this is not the essence of the present invention, so the illustration is omitted. Yes.
It is sufficient to consider the support (support) that enables appropriate movement as required.

Furthermore, since the present invention is a current switch, a housing composed of an arbitrary insulator for preventing an electric shock is necessary. However, this is not the essence of the present invention, so that it is appropriate as necessary. Since it is sufficient to consider the housing, illustration is omitted.

The hardware structure and electric circuit configuration described above are not high-voltage direct current, high-voltage alternating current, or high voltage (although not limited to low voltage). (It is not limited to the above.) The minimum necessary elements for preventing arc discharge when a high-current low-frequency alternating current is interrupted are described.
1 to 4 show the principle that the current switch of the present invention can cut off the current without generating arc discharge.

Therefore, the hardware structure and electric circuit configuration of the current switch according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

From the viewpoint of an essential element, it is sufficient to cut off only the current path that transmits the potential of one polarity of the external current source, so that the terminal T2, the terminal T4, and the current path Li2 are also unnecessary for the current switch according to the present invention. It can also be said. That is, it is not an essential element.

Conversely, if the distinction between the hot side and the cold side of the system is unknown and you want to turn off both to prevent electrical charges, etc., this current switch or DC current switch should be connected to the current path of one polarity and the other polarity. It is also suitable to insert.

(1-2) Operation of Hardware and Electric Circuit With reference to FIGS. 1 to 4, the operation of the hardware and electric circuit of the current switch according to the present invention will be described.

FIG. 1 shows a state in which the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3 are all in contact, and a case where an external power source is connected between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 is considered.
For example, assume that an external high voltage DC power supply potential is applied. It is assumed that the potential of one polarity of the external DC power supply is applied as a positive electrode to the terminal T1, and the potential of the other polarity of the external DC power supply is applied as a negative electrode to the terminal T2.

Depending on the conditions required by the external load L, an external high-voltage DC power supply or a high-current DC power supply that is not high-voltage may be connected. "High-voltage current value <high-voltage but not high-voltage value". The magnitude relation of current as shown in the left formula is common.
In addition, “high voltage current value << low voltage large current value” is also obtained depending on the magnitude of the magnitude of the voltage, which is not high voltage or high voltage (hereinafter also referred to as low voltage).

The positive potential applied to the terminal T1 is transmitted to the current path Li1, the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3, and is output to the terminal T3 through the current path Li3.
Since the negative potential applied to the terminal T2 is directly connected to the terminal T4 via the current path Li2, the negative potential of the external DC power supply is output to the terminal T4.

  When a load L, which is an external element, is connected between the terminals T3 and T4, electric power is supplied to the load L. This is the state of the switch (current switch of the present invention) ON (the current switch is conductive and the current switch is closed).

  In FIG. 1, the charge of the capacitive element C is completely discharged through the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the current path Li3, and the current path Li5.

Next, the operation of the current switch of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 2 shows a state in which the switch (current switch of the present invention) is OFF (the current switch is non-conductive and the current switch is open).
In FIG. 2, since the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are not in contact with each other, the terminals T1 and T3 are non-conductive, and no power is supplied to the load L.

In the state of FIG. 1 before the transition to FIG. 2, the capacitive element C (capacitor) has a current path Li4, an electrode Et2, an electrode Et3, a current path Li3, a current path Li5, a capacitance from one end (positive electrode) of the capacitive element C. It is discharged through the path of the other end (negative electrode) of the element C.
In a state where the electrode Et2 is not in contact with the electrode Et3 and the electrode Et1, the capacitive element C is discharged through the resistance element R1.

In order to cut off the current switch of the present invention (OFF, that is, the power supply to the load L is cut off), the state transitions from the state of FIG. 1 to the state of FIG. 2 (that is, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2). .)), If the capacitive element C shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 does not exist and both ends of the capacitive element C are open (open), an arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3. Even if the electrode Et3 is moved away from the electrode Et2, the arc discharge only extends and the arc discharge does not disappear.

This is because when the capacitive element C is not present and a high voltage DC power source is applied between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are the potentials of the terminal T1, and the electrode Et3 in FIG. Is separated from the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3 is at the potential of the terminal T3 (that is, the potential of the terminal T2), and when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2. A potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 is generated between Et2 and the electrode Et3, and arc discharge is generated.

Alternatively, although not a high voltage, a large current DC power supply is connected in the same manner, and arc discharge also occurs when a large current (a large load L is connected) flows between the terminals T3 and T4.
That is, when a current path through which a high voltage and / or a large current flows is interrupted, an arc discharge inevitably occurs at the interrupting portion.

However, in the current switch according to the present invention, since the capacitive element C is connected between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, the electrode Et3 should be generated between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 for a moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2. Since an alternative current of the arc discharge current flows through the capacitive element C, the arc discharge does not occur.
The current path of the arc discharge alternative current is from the electrode Et2 to the current path Li4, the capacitive element C, the current path Li5, the terminal T3, the load L, the terminal T4, the current path Li2, and the terminal T2.

Considering this from another viewpoint, since the capacitive element C is connected between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, the potential of the electrode Et2 and the potential of the electrode Et3 are the same for a moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2. This is because the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is “0” V.
If the capacitive element C is not completely discharged, the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is extremely small.
If there is no potential difference or if it is small, no arcing will occur.

For a moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, the phase of the current flowing through the capacitive element C is advanced, the voltage phase between the terminals of the capacitive element C is delayed, and the potential difference between the terminals is “0” V.
Therefore, no arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

Considering the potential difference between one end of the capacitive element C, that is, the electrode Et2 and the other end of the capacitive element C, that is, the electrode Et3, and the separation interval considering the time between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, That is, in the process in which the separation distance between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is separated at an Xmm / ms speed from an infinitesimal distance that is a moment of separation, the potential of the electrode Et2 and the potential of the electrode Et3 are changed between the electrodes. The electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 by a sufficient amount at the time when the capacitive element C is charged until the potential difference is generated (increased potential difference between terminals of the capacitive element C).

X is a separation distance per unit time (ms) by which the electrode Et3 is moved by an external force.

The potential difference discharge is generally said to occur when the electrode interval is 1 mm or less and the potential difference is 1,000 V or more. Even if the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is 1,000 V, if the separation interval exceeds 1 mm, a potential difference discharge does not occur at the separation interval, and this occurs and further shifts to arc discharge. Absent.
Here, the potential difference discharge is generally a discharge that occurs when the withstand voltage between the electrodes that occurs when a high voltage is applied between the electrodes is exceeded.

If a high-current DC power source is connected between the terminals T1 and T2 but not a high voltage, it is difficult to generate a potential difference discharge. However, attention should be paid to the arc discharge at the time of separation between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

Note that the capacitance of the capacitive element C is determined by the current value between the terminals T3 and T4 (load L current value). It is necessary to increase the capacitance of the capacitive element C as the current value increases.
In addition, the speed at which the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 is also important. After the electrode Et3 is separated without causing arc discharge in the potential difference between the terminals of the capacitive element C due to the charging of the capacitive element C and the separation interval between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, The separation speed is increased so as to increase the separation interval so that potential difference discharge does not occur between the electrodes Et2 and Et3.

In the current switch according to the present invention, the capacitance C is sufficient for the normal capacitance, that is, in units of μF, and the normal contact point separation speed of the switch.

In FIG. 1, the charge accumulated in the capacitor C is “0”, the potential difference between one end and the other end of the capacitor C is “0” V, and the potential at one end and the other end of the capacitor C is The potentials of the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the electrode Et1, and the terminal T1 are shown in FIG. 2, but the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are separated from each other in FIG. 2 for a short time (depending on the time constant between the capacitive element C and the load L). After the lapse of time, the potential at the other end of the capacitive element C gradually approaches the potential at the terminal T2 (“0” potential with respect to the potential at the terminal T2).

That is, the potential difference between the terminals of the capacitive element C is the potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2.
Therefore, the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is the same as the potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, and reaches the potential difference where the potential difference discharge originally occurs, but the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are separated sufficiently and the discharge is It does not occur and does not shift to arc discharge.

The resistor element R1 is for discharging the electric charge charged in the capacitor element C. In the state shown in FIG. 2, the resistor element R1 is an element constituting a closed circuit between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2. Therefore, the potential applied between the terminals T1 and T2 between both ends of the power input of the load L (that is, between the terminals T3 and T4) even when no electric discharge is generated and no power is supplied to the load L. Part (depending on the ratio between the resistance value of the resistance element R1 and the load L DC resistance value), the electrode Et2 is shifted to the next stage (FIGS. 3 and 4).

If the resistance value of the resistance element R1 is made too small, the load L current flows through the resistance element R1 even when the current switch of the present invention is disconnected by separating the electrode Et3 from the electrode Et2. It is assumed that the resistance value is such that the electric charge of the capacitive element C is discharged.

In the state of FIG. 2, the capacitive element C is connected to the current path Li1, the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, the current path Li4, the capacitive element C, the terminal T1 to which an external potential of one polarity (positive electrode) is applied. Charging is performed through the current path Li5, the terminal T3, the load L, the terminal T4, the current path Li2, and the current path of the terminal T2 to which the other potential of the other polarity (negative electrode) is applied.

The operation of the current switch according to the present invention in the next stage will be described with reference to FIGS.
In the state of FIG. 2, the potential at one end of the capacitive element C is the potential of the electrode Et2, the electrode Et1, and the terminal T1, but immediately before the transition to the state of FIG. 3 (the electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et1). The potential at the other end of the capacitive element C needs to be equal to or close to the potential of the terminal T2. That is, the potential difference between the terminals of the capacitive element C needs to be a potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 or a potential difference close thereto.

When this is satisfied, even if the state shown in FIG. 2 is changed to the state shown in FIG. 3 (the distance between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2), no arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2.
This is because the potential difference between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 is “0” or small for a moment when the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are separated.

Next, in FIG. 3, the electric charge of the capacitive element C starts to be discharged through the resistive element R1, and the voltage between the terminals of the capacitive element C is asymptotic to infinitesimal (the time required for this is the capacitive element C and the resistive element R1). Of time constant).

If the state of FIG. 2 is instantaneously (or quickly) transitioned to the state of FIG. 4, the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are not given time for discharging the charge of the capacitive element C through the resistance element R1. Is conducted, and a short-circuit current flows through the capacitive element C due to the charge accumulated in the capacitive element C.
The short circuit path is from one end of the capacitive element C to the other end of the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the current path Li3, the current path Li15, and the capacitive element C.

When such an event occurs, there is a possibility of damaging the contact portion between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.
That is, a large current flows between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, and the contact resistance between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is large immediately before the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are completely in contact (that is, at the moment of incomplete contact). Contact resistance) Heat is generated at the contact portion, causing damage to the contact portion of both electrodes, such as melting of both electrodes and adhesion between both electrodes.

In order to avoid such an event, it is preferable to provide a little time for maintaining the state of FIG. 3 and to discharge the accumulated charge of the capacitive element C by the resistive element R1.
In the state of FIG. 3, the terminals of the capacitive element C are not short-circuited, and the accumulated charge of the capacitive element C can be discharged by the resistive element R1.

In this state, the switch (current switch of the present invention) may be left on until the switch is turned on (the current switch is in a conductive state and the current switch is closed). Absent.

Next, when the switch (current switch of the present invention) is turned on, the electrode Et2 is changed to the electrode Et1 while maintaining the state of FIG. 4 (ie, the state where the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are in contact). Make contact.
That is, it returns to FIG. 1 (switch ON).

Without passing the above process (FIG. 4, ie, the state where the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are in contact) (FIG. 3, ie, the state where the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are separated), the electrode Et2 is first moved to the electrode Et1. When the electrode Et3 is brought into contact with the electrode Et2 after being brought into contact (the state shown in FIG. 2), and the switch (current switch according to the present invention) is turned on (the state shown in FIG. 1), both ends of the capacitor C Are short-circuited by the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

In the state of FIG. 2, the capacitive element C is charged.
The charge charged in the capacitive element C in the state of FIG. 2 before the transition to the state of FIG. 1 is rapidly discharged in the state of FIG. 1, so that a large current flows between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3. Immediately before Et2 and electrode Et3 are in complete contact, the contact resistance between electrode Et2 and electrode Et3 is large (that is, the contact resistance at the moment of incomplete contact), and heat is generated at the contact portion, and both electrodes melt. The contact part of both electrodes, such as adhesion between both electrodes, is damaged.

This is because, in the state of FIG. 2, from the terminal T1 to which one polarity potential of the external power source, that is, the positive electrode potential is applied, the current path Li1, electrode Et1, electrode Et2, current path Li4, capacitive element C, current This is because the capacitive element C is charged and cannot be discharged by the path Li5, the terminal T3, the load L, the terminal T4, the current path Li2, and the other path of the external power source, that is, the current path of the terminal T2 to which the negative potential is applied. .

Therefore, in this case, when the current switch of the present invention transitions to the state shown in FIG. 1, the charge charged in the capacitive element C is transferred from one end of the capacitive element C to the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, and the current path. It is rapidly discharged by Li3, the current path Li5, and the other end of the capacitive element C.

To prevent this, when the electrode Et2 is brought into contact with the electrode Et1 while maintaining the state of FIG. 4 (contact relationship between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3), the state transitions to the state of FIG. Is not charged, the switch (current switch of the present invention) can be returned to the ON state, and the capacitive element C cannot be discharged.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the operation has been described with an example in which a positive potential is applied to the terminal T1 and a negative potential is applied to the terminal T2 (the terminal T2 is “0” potential since the terminal T2 is a reference potential). A negative potential and a positive potential (terminal T2 is “0” potential because terminal T2 is a reference potential) may be applied to terminal T2, or a low-frequency AC power source may be connected between terminals T1 and T2. Good.

That is, a high-voltage low-frequency alternating current or a low-voltage large-current low-frequency alternating current power source is connected to the terminals T1 and T2, a load L is connected to the terminals T3 and T4, and the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 (see FIG. 1). 2) and no arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 even when the current switch of the present invention is opened (OFF).

This is similar to the above description of the operation in which the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 when the DC power source is connected between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2.

That is, for a moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, the potential difference between the electrode Et3 and the electrode Et2 is “0” potential, and the change in the potential of the electrode Et2 due to the low-frequency alternating current cycle causes the electrode Et3 to be separated from the electrode Et2. Therefore, before the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 becomes large, no potential difference discharge occurs in the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3. A separation distance can be secured.

Therefore, the operation description when the high voltage low frequency alternating current or the low voltage large current low frequency alternating current power source is connected to the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 and the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 is described above. In order to approximate to the operation description in which the electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et2 by connecting to T2, this is used and the overlapping description is omitted.

Further, a high voltage low frequency alternating current or a low voltage large current low frequency alternating current power source is connected to the terminals T1 and T2, and after the transition from FIG. 1 to FIG. 2, the electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et1 (FIG. 2 to FIG. 2). 3), direct current is applied to the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, and after the transition from FIG. 1 to FIG. 2, the electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et1 (transition from FIG. 2 to FIG. 3). Since it becomes the description similar to a case, this is used and the overlapping description is omitted.

However, the difference between direct current and low frequency alternating current is that in low frequency alternating current, even if arc discharge occurs, the arc discharge itself disappears at the potential “0” crossing point.

If the current switch of the present invention is not used, that is, when the AC current is cut off by an AC switch that handles a general AC power source, arc discharge occurs.
The AC current indicates AC with a certain level of high voltage and a certain level of large current.

The current switch of the present invention is effective in preventing arc discharge even for such low-frequency alternating current.

When the current switch of the present invention is used, when the above-described direct current is cut off, a large and expensive switch dedicated to interrupting the direct current is not required.
When the current switch of the present invention is used, when the AC current is cut off, a large and expensive switch for conventional AC is not required.

(2) Embodiment of DC Current Switch (2-1) Hardware Structure and Electric Circuit Configuration FIGS. 5 to 8 are schematic views showing the basic principle of a DC current switch showing an embodiment according to the present invention. It is a hardware structure figure (electrode 1, electrode 2, and electrode 3) and electric circuit composition (C, R1, D, and R2).
Note that incidental elements not related to the basic part of the present invention are omitted in the drawings, but will be described in the description in the specification.

Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 5 to 8, a hardware structure and an electric circuit configuration of a DC current switch according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described.

However, since description common to FIGS. 1 to 4 which is the embodiment of the current switch and FIGS. 5 to 8 which is the embodiment of the direct current switch is duplicated, in FIGS. Elements common to FIGS. 1 to 4 (elements and the like) are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description of FIGS. 1 to 4 which is an embodiment of the current switch is used to omit redundant description. A description of the differences between the two will be added.

The difference between FIG. 1 to FIG. 4 of the current switch and 5 to 8 of the DC current switch diagram.
5 to 8, diodes D (hereinafter referred to as diodes D) and R2, which are rectifying elements denoted by D, are connected to the parallel connection circuit of the capacitive element C and the resistance element R1 in FIGS. A parallel connection circuit of a resistance element R2 (hereinafter referred to as resistance element R2) which is a displayed resistance element is connected in series.
In the claims, the diode D is referred to as a rectifying element, and the resistance element R2 is referred to as a resistance element 2.

The parallel connection circuit of the capacitive element C and the resistance element R1 and the parallel connection circuit of the diode D and the resistance element R2 may be switched left and right when viewed from FIGS.

As described above, the present embodiment is different from the embodiment of the current switch in that an element to which a parallel connection circuit of the diode D and the resistance element R2 is added.
The diode D is connected in the forward direction with respect to the potential applied to the terminals T1 and T2.

In the embodiment of the current switch, the explanation regarding the low-frequency alternating current described above is not performed in the embodiment of the direct current switch.
This is because the present invention is a direct current switch.

(2-2) Operation of Hardware and Electric Circuit The operation of the hardware and electric circuit of the DC current switch according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS.

FIG. 5 shows a state in which the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3 are all in contact, and a case where an external power source is connected between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 is considered.

For example, it is assumed that an external high-voltage DC power supply or a high-current DC power supply that is not a high voltage is connected. It is assumed that the potential of one polarity of the external DC power supply is applied as a positive electrode to the terminal T1, and the potential of the other polarity of the external DC power supply is applied as a negative electrode to the terminal T2.

Depending on the conditions required by the external load L, an external high-voltage DC power source or a high-current power source that is not high-voltage is connected between the terminals T1 and T2. “High-voltage current value <high-voltage but not high-voltage current value”. The magnitude relation of current as shown in the left formula is common.
In addition, depending on the magnitude relationship between the magnitudes of the high-voltage and low-voltage voltages, “high-current current value << not high-voltage but high-current current value” is also obtained.

The positive potential applied to the terminal T1 is transmitted to the current path Li1, the electrode Et1, the electrode Et2, and the electrode Et3, and is output to the terminal T3 through the current path Li3.
Since the negative potential applied to the terminal T2 is directly connected to the terminal T4 via the current path Li2, the external negative potential is output to the terminal T4.

  When a load L, which is an external element, is connected between the terminals T3 and T4, electric power is supplied to the load L. This is the state of the switch (DC current switch of the present invention) ON (the DC current switch is conductive and the DC current switch is closed).

Next, the operation of the DC current switch according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 6 shows a state in which the switch (the direct current switch of the present invention) is OFF (the direct current switch is in a non-conductive state and the direct current switch is in an open state).

In FIG. 6, since the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are not in contact with each other, the terminals T1 and T3 are non-conductive, and power is not supplied to the load L.
The state of FIG. 5 before the transition to FIG. 6 is assumed, and it is assumed that the capacitive element C (capacitor) is almost completely discharged through the resistive element R1 and the resistive element R2.

The discharge is basically performed through a resistance element R1 connected in parallel to the capacitive element C, but is also discharged in the following discharge path.
In FIG. 5 before the transition to FIG. 6, the discharge path is from the one end (positive electrode) of the capacitive element C to the resistive element R2, the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the current path Li3, the current path Li5, and the capacitive element C. The other end (negative electrode).

In order to cut off the DC current switch of the present invention (OFF, ie, power supply to the load L is cut off), the state transitions from the state of FIG. 5 to the state of FIG. 6 (that is, the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2). 5 and 6, if both ends of the capacitive element C are open (open), arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3. Even if it is generated and the electrode Et3 is moved away from the electrode Et2, the arc discharge only extends and the arc discharge does not disappear.

The reason for this is that in FIG. 6, when the high potential difference is applied between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 without the capacitive element C, the moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, and thereafter, the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 The potential is the potential of the polarity of the terminal T1, the potential of the electrode Et3 is the potential of the polarity of the terminal T3 and the terminal T2, and a high potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 is present between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3. This is because it occurs.

In such a state, when the capacitive element C is not present, in FIG. 5, when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, an arc discharge is generated between the electrodes and continues.

Further, even when a low voltage is applied between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, if a large current (a large capacity load is connected) flows between the terminal T3 and the terminal T4, the capacitive element C does not exist. In FIG. 5, when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, arc discharge is generated between the two electrodes and continues.

However, since the capacitive element C is connected between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 (via a parallel connection circuit of the diode D and the resistance element R2) in the DC current switch of the present invention, the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 Since the alternative current of the arc discharge current flows through the diode D and the capacitive element C so as to be generated between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 at the time of the separation, no arc discharge occurs.

The current path of the arc discharge alternative current is from the electrode Et2 to the current path Li4, the diode D, the capacitive element C, the current path Li5, the terminal T3, the load L, the terminal T4, the current path Li2, and the terminal T2.

Considering this from another viewpoint, since the capacitive element C is connected between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 (via a parallel connection circuit of the diode D and the resistance element R2), the electrode Et3 is connected to the electrode Et2. The moment of separation is because the potential of the electrode Et2 and the potential of the electrode Et3 are approximately the same, and the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is approximately “0.6” V (approximately “0”).
If the capacitive element C is not completely discharged, the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is extremely small.
If the potential difference is approximately “0” or small, arc discharge does not occur.

If the current value flowing through the diode D is large, the forward voltage drop of the diode D is slightly increased.

At the moment when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, the phase of the current flowing through the capacitive element C is advanced, the voltage phase between the terminals of the capacitive element C is delayed, and the potential difference between the terminals is approximately “0.6” V.
Therefore, no arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

Considering the potential difference between one end of the capacitive element C, that is, the electrode Et2 and the other end of the capacitive element C, that is, the electrode Et3, and the separation interval considering the time between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, when the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2, That is, in the process in which the separation distance between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is separated at an Xmm / ms speed from an infinitesimal distance that is a moment of separation, the potential of the electrode Et2 and the potential of the electrode Et3 are changed between the electrodes. The electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 by a sufficient amount at the time when the capacitive element C is charged until the potential difference is generated (increased potential difference between terminals of the capacitive element C).

X is a separation distance per unit time (ms) by which the electrode Et3 is moved by an external force.

The potential difference discharge is generally said to occur when the electrode interval is 1 mm or less and the potential difference is 1,000 V or more. Even if the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is 1,000 V, if the separation interval exceeds 1 mm, a potential difference discharge does not occur at the separation interval, and this occurs and further shifts to arc discharge. Absent.
Here, the potential difference discharge is generally a discharge that occurs when the withstand voltage between the electrodes that occurs when a high voltage is applied between the electrodes is exceeded.

If a high-current DC power source is connected between the terminals T1 and T2 but not a high voltage, it is difficult to generate a potential difference discharge. However, attention should be paid to the arc discharge at the time of separation between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

Note that the capacitance of the capacitive element C is determined by the current value between the terminals T3 and T4 (load L current value). It is necessary to increase the capacitance of the capacitive element C as the current value increases.
In addition, the speed at which the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 is also important. After the electrode Et3 is separated without causing arc discharge in the potential difference between the terminals of the capacitive element C due to the charging of the capacitive element C and the separation interval between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, The separation speed is increased so as to increase the separation interval so that potential difference discharge does not occur between the electrodes Et2 and Et3.

In the current switch according to the present invention, the capacitance C is sufficient for the normal capacitance, that is, in units of μF, and the normal contact point separation speed of the switch.

In FIG. 5, the electric charge accumulated in the capacitive element C is “0”, the potential difference between one end and the other end of the capacitive element C is approximately “0.6” V, and the one end and the other end of the capacitive element C are Is substantially the potential of the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the electrode Et1, and the terminal T1, but in FIG. 6, the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are separated from each other, and the time is constant (the time constant between the capacitive element C and the load L). After that, the potential of the other end of the capacitive element C gradually approaches the potential of the terminal T2 (almost “0” potential with respect to the potential of the terminal T2).
Here, the forward voltage drop of the diode D is ignored above and hereinafter (the expression “almost” when the forward voltage drop of the diode D is taken into consideration).

That is, the potential difference between the terminals of the capacitive element C is substantially the potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2.
Therefore, the potential difference between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 is substantially the same as the potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, and reaches the potential difference where the potential difference discharge is originally generated, but the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 are sufficiently separated from each other. The discharge does not occur and does not shift to arc discharge.

The resistor element R1 is for discharging the electric charge charged in the capacitor element C. In the state shown in FIG. 2, the resistor element R1 is an element constituting a closed circuit between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2. Therefore, the potential applied between the terminals T1 and T2 between both ends of the power input of the load L (that is, between the terminals T3 and T4) even when no electric discharge is generated and no power is supplied to the load L. Part (depending on the ratio between the resistance value of the resistance element R1 and the load L DC resistance value), the electrode Et2 is shifted to the next stage (FIGS. 7 and 8).

If the resistance value of the resistance element R1 is made too small, the current switch of the present invention is disconnected even if the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2 and the current switch of the present invention is cut off through the diode D (ignoring the resistance element R2) and the resistance element R1. Since the load L current flows, the resistance value of the resistance element R1 is assumed to be such that the charge of the capacitance element C is discharged.

In the state of FIG. 6, the capacitive element C has a current path Li1, an electrode Et1, an electrode Et2, a current path Li4, a diode D (resistor) from the terminal T1 to which an external potential of one polarity (positive electrode) is applied. The element R2 is ignored), the capacitive element C, the current path Li5, the terminal T3, the load L, the terminal T4, the current path Li2, and the current path of the terminal T2 to which the other potential of the other polarity (negative electrode) is applied. .

With reference to FIGS. 6-8, operation | movement of the current switch of this invention in the next step is demonstrated.
In the state of FIG. 6, the potential at one end of the capacitive element C is the potential of the electrode Et2, the electrode Et1, and the terminal T1, but immediately before the transition to the state of FIG. 7 (the electrode Et2 is separated from the electrode Et1). The potential of the other end of the capacitive element C needs to be approximately the potential of the terminal T2 or a potential close thereto. That is, the inter-terminal potential difference of the capacitive element C needs to be approximately the potential difference between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2 or a potential difference close thereto.

When this is satisfied, even if the state shown in FIG. 6 is changed to the state shown in FIG. 7 (the distance between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2), no arc discharge occurs between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2.
This is because the potential difference between the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 is almost “0” V or small for a moment when the electrode Et1 and the electrode Et2 are separated.

Next, in FIG. 8, the electric charge of the capacitive element C starts to discharge through the resistive element R1 and the resistive element R2, and the voltage between the terminals of the capacitive element C approaches asymptotically (the time required for this is the capacitive element C And the time constant of the parallel connection resistance value of the resistance elements R1 and R2.

Even if the state of FIG. 6 is instantaneously (or quickly) changed to the state of FIG. 8 and the time for discharging the charge of the capacitive element C through the resistive element R1 is not given, the diode D is Since the charge potential polarity of C is opposite, the discharge current of the capacitive element C via the resistance element R2 flows between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3, so that both terminals of the capacitive element C are not short-circuited.

Therefore, even if such an event (transition from the state of FIG. 6 instantaneously (or quickly) to the state of FIG. 8) occurs, there is no short circuit across the capacitive element C, and a large current flows from the capacitive element C. Therefore, the contact portion damage (melting, welding, etc. described in the embodiment of the current switch) is not given to the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3.

That is, events such as melting of the contact portion between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 and adhesion between the electrode Et2 and the electrode Et3 do not occur.
Therefore, it is not necessary to provide time for maintaining the state of FIG.

In the state of FIG. 8, the terminals of the capacitive element C are not short-circuited, and the charge of the capacitive element C can be discharged separately via the resistive element R1 and the resistive element R2.
The discharge path of the charge of the capacitive element C through the resistive element R2 is one end of the capacitive element C, the resistive element R2, the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the current path Li3, the current path Li5, and the capacitive element C. End.

In FIG. 8, the electric charge of the capacitive element C starts to discharge through the resistive element R1 and the resistive element R2, and the voltage between the terminals of the capacitive element C is asymptotic to infinitesimal (the time required for this is the same as that of the capacitive element C and the resistive element (Depending on the time constant of the parallel connection circuit of the element R1 and the resistance element R2).

In this state (FIG. 8), the switch (DC current switch of the present invention) is turned ON (the DC current switch is in a conductive state and the DC current switch is closed). You can leave it until.

Next, when the switch (DC current switch of the present invention) is turned on, it is not necessary to bring the electrode Et2 into contact with the electrode Et1 while maintaining the state of FIG.

In the DC current switch of the present invention, the electrode Et2 can be first brought into contact with the electrode Et1 (the state shown in FIG. 6) without passing through the above-described process (that is, maintaining the state shown in FIG. 8).

Next, even if the electrode Et3 is brought into contact with the electrode Et2 and the switch (DC current switch of the present invention) is switched to the ON state (the state shown in FIG. 5), the charge potential polarity of the capacitive element C is the forward direction of the diode D. Conversely, since the charge of the capacitive element C is discharged through the resistance element R2, the contact portion of the electrode Et2 and the contact portion of the electrode Et3 are not damaged (melted, welded, etc.).

The discharge path of the capacitive element C is from one end of the capacitive element C to the resistive element R2, the current path Li4, the electrode Et2, the electrode Et3, the current path Li3, the current path Li5, and the other end of the capacitive element C.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the operation has been described with an example in which the positive potential is applied to the terminal T1 and the negative potential is applied to the terminal T2. However, the negative potential may be applied to the terminal T1 and the positive potential may be applied to the terminal T2.

As described above, when a reverse polarity potential is applied between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, the anode and the cathode of the diode D are reversed. That is, the diode is connected with the opposite polarity to that in FIGS.

The embodiment of the present invention is a direct-current arc discharge prevention and DC current switch, but the behavior of the electrode Et2, that is, the electrode Et2 contacts the electrode Et3 and the electrode Et3 after the electrode Et3 is separated from the electrode Et2. After Et2 is separated from the electrode Et1, there is an advantage that the control related to the contact of the electrode Et2 with the electrode Et1 is simple.

In the embodiment of the present invention, the operation has been described with an example in which the positive potential is applied to the terminal T1 and the negative potential is applied to the terminal T2. However, the negative potential may be applied to the terminal T1 and the positive potential may be applied to the terminal T2.

As described above, when a reverse polarity potential is applied between the terminal T1 and the terminal T2, the anode and the cathode of the diode D are reversed. That is, the diode is connected with the opposite polarity to that in FIGS.

(3) Supplementary explanation (1-1) “High voltage, not high voltage (although not limited to low voltage)” in the hardware structure and electrical circuit configuration described above Qualitative characteristics of voltage, large current, and alternating current (frequency) Supplementary explanation of "referential expression".
High voltage (high voltage) / low voltage (low voltage) / "not high voltage" is qualitative, but with regard to these, in the mechanical part including each electrode, withstand voltage / voltage in a normal voltage range not particularly conscious of arc discharge These are described for a very general mechanical switch satisfying the current capacity.

(3-1) Voltage and current values The generally known potential difference between electrodes for generating arc discharge is about 300 V or higher, and about 300 V or less, which is considered to be low voltage (less than 48 V). However, when the current flowing between the electrodes is large, for example, it is said that arc discharge occurs at a current value of tens of thousands to thousands of amperes.

Then, the potential difference between the electrodes for generating the arc discharge is about 300 V or more. However, if the current flowing between the electrodes is larger than the current value when the potential difference between the electrodes is about 300 V or more, for example, 100 V, 200 V that is not particularly high voltage. Arc discharge will occur even at a degree.
As a matter of course, this arc discharge is generated when the gap between the electrodes to which the voltage is applied is opened.

  That is, the interelectrode potential difference at which arc discharge occurs between the electrodes greatly depends on the flowing current.

  Therefore, it is necessary to consider that the above current value is taken into consideration even if expressed as high pressure and low pressure in this specification. That is, the section in which arc discharge at high pressure / low pressure applied between the electrodes is generated differs depending on the interelectrode current value.

(3-2) AC Frequency For the AC frequency, a description is added for the current switch of the present invention that uses the capacitive element C and does not use the diode D.

When applied to the current switch of the present invention, the AC frequency is about 100 Hz or less, and generally means the system frequency (50 Hz, 60 Hz).
This is an AC frequency when the above-described general mechanical switch (not considering arc discharge) is used for the electrode of the embodiment of the present invention and the capacitive element C is added.

As a matter of course, the AC frequency is related to the capacitance of the capacitive element C, the separation speed of the electrode (this is related to the mass of the electrode (that is, due to the current capacity of the electrode), and the external force that moves the electrode). Depends on.

Since the electrode separation speed is a general condition in which a very general mechanical switch is used in the embodiment of the present invention, the capacitance of the capacitive element C is substantially determined by the AC frequency.
In alternating current, even when no arc discharge occurs when the electrodes are separated, the alternating potential changes during separation, the potential difference between the electrodes increases, and a potential difference discharge occurs, which may be transferred to arc discharge.

Therefore, there is an important causal relationship between the mass of the switch electrode (this is due to the current capacity of the electrode) and the speed at which both electrodes are separated (which is due to the external force separating the electrodes). .

Et1, Et2, Et3 Electrode 1 to Electrode 3
C Capacitance element D Rectifier element R1, R2 Resistance element 1, 2
Li1 to Li5 Current paths 1 to 5
T1 to T4 Terminals 1 to 4

Claims (10)

An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the capacitive element,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the capacitive element,
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. And the electrode 3 are separated and become non-conductive, current flows from the electrode 2 to the portion via the capacitive element and the external load, and arc discharge occurs between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. A current switch that does not generate. An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the capacitive element,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the capacitive element,
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. The electric potential difference between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 is “0” or very small for a moment when the electrode 3 and the electrode 3 are separated from each other, and no arc discharge is generated between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. vessel. By maintaining the conductive state in which the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in contact with each other, the electrode 2 and the electrode 1 are brought into contact with each other to be in a conductive state, whereby the potential of the one polarity of the external power source is applied to the electrode 3. The current switch according to claim 1, wherein the current switch is output. An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the series connection circuit,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the series connection circuit,
The rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power source;
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. And the electrode 3 are separated from each other and become non-conductive, current flows from the electrode 2 to the portion via the series connection circuit and the external load, and an arc discharge occurs between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. A direct current switch characterized in that no generation occurs. An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
The electrode 1 is configured to be applied with a potential of one polarity of an external power source,
The electrode 2 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 1, and the electrode 3 is configured to be in contact with or non-contact with the electrode 2,
The potential of the electrode 2 is configured to be transmitted to one end of the series connection circuit,
The potential of the electrode 3 is configured to be transmitted to the other end of the series connection circuit,
The rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power source;
When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a conductive state, the one polarity potential of the external power source applied to the electrode 1 is output from the electrode 3,
An external load is connected between the electrode 3 and the portion of the external power source to which the other polarity potential is applied, and the electrode 2 is in a state where the electrode 1 and the electrode 2 are conductive. The electric potential difference between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 is almost “0” or very small for a moment when the electrode 3 is separated from the electrode 3, and no arc discharge is generated between the electrode 2 and the electrode 3. Current switch. An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a capacitor;
One end of the capacitive element is connected to the electrode 2, the other end of the capacitive element is connected to the electrode 3, and the electrode 1 is an electrode to which a potential of one polarity of an external power source is applied, The electrode 3 is an electrode that outputs or does not output the external potential of the one polarity. When the electrode 1, the electrode 2, and the electrode 3 are in contact, the switch of the current switch is closed. A current switch characterized in that when the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in a separated state, the switch of the current switch is open. An electrode 1, an electrode 2, an electrode 3, and a series connection circuit of a capacitive element and a rectifying element;
One end of the series connection circuit is connected to the electrode 2, the other end of the series connection circuit is connected to the electrode 3, and the electrode 1 is an electrode to which a potential of one polarity of an external power supply is applied. And the rectifying element of the series connection circuit is forward to the potential of the one polarity of the external power supply, and the electrode 3 outputs or does not output the potential of the one polarity of the external power supply. When the electrode 1, the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are in contact, the DC current switch is closed, and when the electrode 2 and the electrode 3 are separated, the direct current A DC current switch characterized in that the switch part of the switch is open. The current switch according to claim 1, wherein a resistance element 1 is connected in parallel to both ends of the capacitive element. 8. The DC current switch according to claim 4, wherein a resistance element 1 is connected in parallel to both ends of the capacitive element. 8. The DC current switch according to claim 4, wherein a resistance element 2 is connected in parallel to both ends of the rectifying element.

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