WO2019144960A1

WO2019144960A1 - Lock assemblies for components of electrical power distribution systems

Info

Publication number: WO2019144960A1
Application number: PCT/CN2019/073464
Authority: WO
Inventors: Xuewei Sun; Junjia SHEN; Liyuan GUO; Jiyuan XIN; Bin Huo; Dezhong Wang
Original assignee: Industrial Connections & Solutions LLC
Priority date: 2018-01-26
Filing date: 2019-01-28
Publication date: 2019-08-01
Also published as: CN110085463A; CN110085463B

Abstract

An electrical power distribution system includes a first lock assembly and a second lock assembly. The first lock assembly includes a first lock rotatable about a first axis and a second lock rotatable about a second axis. The first lock assembly also includes a first connector arranged to prevent rotation of the first lock when a switch device is in a switch device first position and to prevent rotation of the second lock when the switch device is in a switch device second position. The electrical power distribution system further includes a second lock assembly including a third lock rotatable about a third axis and a fourth lock rotatable about a fourth axis. The second lock assembly further includes a second connector coupled to an indicator. The second connector is arranged to prevent rotation of the third lock when a circuit protection device is in a circuit protection device first position and to prevent rotation of the fourth lock when the circuit protection device is in a circuit protection device second position.

Description

LOCK ASSEMBLIES FOR COMPONENTS OF ELECTRICAL POWER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

BACKGROUND

The present application relates generally to electrical power distribution systems and, more particularly, to lock assemblies for components of electrical power distribution systems.

At least some known electrical power distribution systems include a plurality of switchgear lineups including circuit breakers that are coupled to one or more loads. The circuit breakers are configured to interrupt current to the loads if the current is outside of acceptable conditions. The circuit breakers are positionable between a first, testing position and a second, working position. For example, some electrical power distribution systems include a vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) and a positionable VCB truck.

At least some known electrical power distribution systems include switch devices to protect operators from the current flowing through the electrical power distribution systems. For example, at least some known switch devices are configured to selectively isolate the circuit breakers and allow operators to safely access and/or remove circuit breakers. The switch devices are positionable between an opened position and a closed position.

At least some known electrical power distribution systems include lock assemblies for the circuit breakers and/or switch devices. Sometimes, the lock assemblies include separate locks for different positions of the components. However, it may not be readily apparent to an operator if the switch device and/or the circuit breaker is in a first position or a second position. As a result, the operator may attempt to operate the incorrect lock for the current position of the respective component and/or attempt to override the current position of the component.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION

In one aspect, an electrical power distribution system is provided. The electrical power distribution system includes a circuit protection device arranged to interrupt current flowing through a circuit and a switch device coupled to the circuit protection device. The circuit protection device is positionable between a circuit protection device first position and a circuit protection device second position. The switch device is positionable between a switch device first position and a switch device second position. The switch device includes an actuating mechanism. The electrical power distribution system includes a first lock assembly coupled to the switch device. The first lock assembly includes a first lock rotatable about a first axis and a second lock rotatable about a second axis. The first lock assembly also includes a first connector coupled to the switch device. The first connector extends from the switch device to the first lock and the second lock. The first connector is arranged to prevent rotation of the first lock when the switch device is in the switch device first position and to prevent rotation of the second lock when the switch device is in the switch device second position. The electrical power distribution system further includes a second lock assembly including an indicator arranged to indicate the position of the circuit protection device. The second lock assembly also includes a third lock rotatable about a third axis and a fourth lock rotatable about a fourth axis. The second lock assembly further includes a second connector coupled to the indicator. The second connector is arranged to prevent rotation of the third lock when the circuit protection device is in the circuit protection device first position. The second connector is arranged to prevent rotation of the fourth lock when the circuit protection device is in the circuit protection device second position.

In another aspect, a lock assembly for a circuit protection device of an electrical power distribution system is provided. The lock assembly includes an indicator arranged to indicate a position of the circuit protection device. The lock assembly also includes a first lock rotatable about a first axis and a second lock rotatable about a second axis. The lock assembly further includes a connector coupled to the first lock and the second lock. The indicator is coupled to the connector and arranged to cause the connector to move between a connector first position and a connector second position. The connector is arranged to prevent rotation of the first lock when the connector is in the connector first position and to prevent rotation of the second lock when the connector is in the connector second position.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Fig. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary electrical power distribution system;

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of the electrical power distribution system shown in Fig. 1;

Fig. 3 is a front perspective view of a first lock assembly of the electrical power distribution system shown in Figs. 1 and 2;

Fig. 4 is a rear perspective view of the first lock assembly;

Fig. 5 is a front perspective view of a portion of the first lock assembly;

Fig. 6 is an exploded view of a portion of the first lock assembly;

Fig. 7 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the first lock assembly;

Fig. 8 is a top view of a portion of the first lock assembly;

Fig. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of a second lock assembly of the electrical power distribution system shown in Figs. 1 and 2; and

Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of a portion of the second lock assembly.

Although specific features of various embodiments may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. Any feature of any drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

In the following specification and the claims, reference will be made to a number of terms, which shall be defined to have the following meanings.

The singular forms “a” , “an” , and “the” include plural references unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

“Optional” or “optionally” means that the subsequently described event or circumstance may or may not occur, and that the description includes instances where the event occurs and instances where it does not.

Approximating language, as used herein throughout the specification and claims, may be applied to modify any quantitative representation that could permissibly vary without resulting in a change in the basic function to which it is related. Accordingly, a value modified by a term or terms, such as “about” , “approximately” , and “substantially” , are not to be limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the approximating language may correspond to the precision of an instrument for measuring the value. Here and throughout the specification and claims, range limitations may be combined and/or interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein unless context or language indicates otherwise.

Exemplary embodiments of an electrical power distribution systems and methods of operating the electrical power distribution system are described herein. The exemplary electrical power distribution system includes a plurality of lock assemblies. A first lock assembly of the plurality of lock assemblies includes a guard that restricts access to a switch device of the electrical power distribution system. A second lock assembly of the plurality of lock assemblies includes an indicator that indicates a position of a circuit protection device and restricts access to the circuit protection device when the indicator indicates that the circuit protection device is in a second position. Each lock assembly includes locks that are coupled to a connector. The connector provides mutually exclusive operation of the locks within each lock assembly. In addition, the lock assemblies prevent insertion of a tool when the respective lock is in a locked position.

Fig. 1 is a perspective of a portion of an exemplary electrical power distribution system 100. Exemplary electrical power distribution system 100 includes at least one source (not shown) providing power to at least one load (not shown) via at least one circuit protection device 106. Electrical power sources may include, for example, one or more generators, electrical grids, or other devices that provide electrical current (and resulting electrical power) to loads. The electrical current may be transmitted to load through distribution busses. Loads may include, but are not limited to only including, machinery, motors, lighting, and/or other electrical and mechanical equipment of a manufacturing or power generation or distribution facility.

In some embodiments, at least one circuit protection device 106 is housed in one or more switchgear units. The switchgear units include racks to which circuit protection devices 106 are mounted within a cabinet. Circuit protection devices 106 that are electrically close to each other may be disposed physically close to each other, such as in the same switchgear unit, or physically distant from each other, such as in separate switchgear units, in separate rooms, etc. Similarly, circuit protection devices 106 that are electrically distant from each other may be disposed physically close to each other or physically distant from each other.

In the exemplary embodiment, electrical power distribution system 100 includes at least one switch device 110. In the exemplary embodiment, switch device 110 is an earthing switch which is configured to provide grounding and isolation for circuit protection devices 106. Switch device 110 is positionable between an opened position, broadly a first position, and a closed position, broadly a second position. In the first position, switch device 110 allows current to flow through circuit protection devices 106. In the second position, switch device 110 isolates at least one circuit protection device 106 and inhibits current flowing to the isolated circuit protection device 106. Accordingly, switch device 110 is configured to reduce the risk of electrical shock when operators access portions of electrical power distribution system 100. For example, in some embodiments, switch device 110 is moveable between the first position and the second position when at least one circuit protection device 106 is removed from electrical power distribution system 100. In the exemplary embodiment, switch device 110 includes an actuating mechanism 166 and is positionable between the opened position and the closed position. In alternative embodiments, electrical power distribution system 100 includes any switch device 110 that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, circuit protection devices 106 include circuit breakers configured to trip and interrupt the flow of current through circuits coupled to circuit protection devices 106. Specifically, in the exemplary embodiment, electrical power distribution system 100 includes at least one vacuum circuit breaker (VCB) 106. In alternative embodiments, electrical power distribution system 100 includes any circuit protection device 106 that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, circuit protection device 106 includes, for example and without limitation, one or more other circuit breaker devices and/or arc containment devices. Exemplary circuit breaker devices include, for example and without limitation, circuit switches, contact arms, and/or circuit interrupters that interrupt current flowing through the circuit breaker device to a load coupled to the circuit breaker device. An exemplary arc containment device includes, for example and without limitation, a containment assembly, a plurality of electrodes, a plasma gun, and a trigger circuit that causes the plasma gun to emit ablative plasma into a gap between the electrodes in order to divert energy into the containment assembly from an arc or other electrical fault that is detected on the circuit.

Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a portion of electrical power distribution system 100 including a first lock assembly 112 and a second lock assembly 113. Fig. 3 is a front perspective view of first lock assembly 112 of electrical power distribution system 100. Fig. 4 is a rear perspective view of first lock assembly 112. First lock assembly 112 is coupled to switch device 110 (shown in Fig. 1) . First lock assembly 112 is configured to restrict movement of switch device 110 between the opened position and the closed position. In addition, first lock assembly 112 restricts access to actuating mechanism 166. Accordingly, first lock assembly 112 prevents improper operation of switch device 110 and prevents current flowing through portions of electrical power distribution system 100 when an operator accesses electrical power distribution system 100. In alternative embodiments, switch device 110 and first lock assembly 112 have any configuration that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

Fig. 5 is a front perspective view of a portion of first lock assembly 112. Fig. 6 is an exploded view of a portion of first lock assembly 112. First lock assembly 112 includes a first lock 116, a second lock 118, a connector 120, and a guard 122. First lock 116 defines a first keyhole or opening 124 configured to receive a key or tool (not shown) for operating first lock 116. Second lock 118 defines a second keyhole or opening 125 configured to receive a key or tool (not shown) for operating second lock 118. In the exemplary embodiment, first lock 116 and second lock 118 are positionable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In alternative embodiments, first lock assembly 112 includes any lock that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, first lock assembly 112 is coupled to a bracket 126 and a plate 129. Specifically, first lock 116 and second lock 118 are coupled to plate 129. Plate 129, connector 120, and guard 122 are coupled to bracket 126 such that bracket 126 supports plate 129, connector 120, and guard 122. Connector 120 and guard 122 are arranged to move relative to bracket 126. Bracket 126 is used to mount first lock assembly 112 within electrical power distribution system 100. At least one of connector 120, guard 122, bracket 126, and plate 129 defines at least one window 131 to provide a line of sight to at least one of circuit protection device 106 and switch device 110. In the exemplary embodiment, support plate 129 and connector 120 define windows 131 to allow an operator to determine the position of switch device 110. In alternative embodiments, first lock assembly 112 is supported and/or mounted to electrical power distribution system 100 in any manner that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, first lock 116 is coupled to a first shaft 128. First lock 116 and first shaft 128 are configured to rotate about an axis 130 defined through first shaft 128. Second lock 118 is coupled to a second shaft 132. Second lock 118 and second shaft 132 are configured to rotate about an axis 134 defined through second shaft 132. Axis 134 of second shaft 132 is parallel to and spaced from axis 130 of first shaft 128. In the exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of first shaft 128 and second shaft 132 are rectangular cuboids and are configured to engage connector 120. First shaft 128 and second shaft 132 extend through openings defined in plate 129. In alternative embodiments, first lock assembly 112 includes any first shaft 128 and/or second shaft 132 that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first shaft 128 and second shaft 132 include cylindrical portions.

To operate first lock assembly 112, an operator positions a key or tool (not shown) into keyhole 124 of first lock 116 or keyhole 125 of second lock 118 and rotates the key to move first lock 116 or second lock 118 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In alternative embodiments, first lock 116 and second lock 118 have any configuration that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first lock 116 and/or second lock 118 include a component configured to move linearly and do not necessarily rotate.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, connector 120 is coupled to switch device 110 (shown in Fig. 2) and extends from switch device 110 to first lock 116 and second lock 118. Connector 120 includes a body 136 defining a first opening 138 configured to receive first shaft 128 and a second opening 140 configured to receive second shaft 132. Accordingly, connector 120 couples first lock 116 and second lock 118 to switch device 110. In alternative embodiments, connector 120 is coupled to any component that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, first opening 138 of connector 120 includes a first portion 142 and a second portion 144. First portion 142 is defined by a curved edge and is circular. In addition, first portion 142 is larger than first shaft 128. Accordingly, first portion 142 of first opening 138 allows first shaft 128 to rotate relative to connector 120. Second portion 144 is shaped to prevent rotation of first shaft 128. Second portion 144 is defined by linear edges and has a rectangular shape. Moreover, a width of second portion 144 is less than the diagonal of the rectangular portion of first shaft 128. Accordingly, second portion 144 inhibits first shaft 128 from rotating relative to connector 120.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second opening 140 of connector 120 includes a first portion 146 and a second portion 148. First portion 146 is shaped to allow rotation of second shaft 132. In particular, first portion 146 is defined by a curved edge and is circular. In addition, first portion 146 is larger than second shaft 132. Accordingly, first portion 146 of second opening 140 allows second shaft 132 to rotate relative to connector 120 when second shaft 132 is positioned in first portion 146. Second portion 148 is shaped to prevent rotation of second shaft 132. Second portion 148 is defined by linear edges and has a rectangular shape. Moreover, a width of second portion 148 is less than the diagonal of the rectangular portion of second shaft 132. Accordingly, second portion 148 of second opening 140 inhibits second shaft 132 rotating relative to connector 120. In alternative embodiments, connector 120 includes any opening that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second opening 140 is a mirror image of first opening 138 about an axis 150 extending between first opening 138 and second opening 140. In alternative embodiments, first opening 138 and second opening 140 have any configuration that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first opening 138 is elongated in a first direction and second opening 140 is elongated in a second direction different from the first direction. In further embodiments, first opening 138 and second opening 140 have different shapes.

Fig. 7 is a rear perspective view of a portion of first lock assembly 112. Fig. 8 is a top view of a portion of first lock assembly 112. In the exemplary embodiment, connector 120 of first lock assembly 112 is positionable between a first position and a second position. During operation of first lock assembly 112, in the exemplary embodiment, connector 120 moves linearly between the first position and the second position. When connector 120 is in the first position, first shaft 128 is received in first portion 142 of first opening 138 and second shaft 132 is received in first portion 146 of second opening 140. When connector 120 is in the second position, first shaft 128 is received in second portion 144 of first opening 138 and second shaft 132 is received in second portion 148 of second opening 140. Accordingly, connector 120 provides mutually exclusive operation of first lock 116 and second lock 118. For example, first lock 116 is allowed to move and second lock 118 is inhibited from moving when connector 120 is in the first position. When connector 120 is moved to the second position, second lock 118 is allowed to move and first lock 116 is inhibited from moving. In alternative embodiments, connector 120 has any position that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, at least one biasing member 152 is coupled to connector 120 and biases connector 120 towards the first position. Accordingly, connector 120 remains in the first position until a force acts on connector 120 and overcomes the biasing force of biasing member 152. In some embodiments, actuating mechanism 166 is configured to move connector 120 from the first position to the second position when switch device 110 (shown in Fig. 2) is moved to the opened position. In the exemplary embodiment, first lock assembly 112 includes two springs that act as biasing members 152 for connector 120. In alternative embodiments, first lock assembly 112 includes any biasing member 152 that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 122 is coupled to first lock 116 by a first link 154. Guard 122 is coupled to second lock by a second link 156. Guard 122 extends from first lock 116 and second lock 118 towards actuating mechanism 166. Guard 122 is positionable between a first position in which guard 122 allows access to actuating mechanism 166 and a second position in which guard 122 inhibits access to actuating mechanism 166. In the exemplary embodiment, guard 122 is arranged to move between the first position and the second position when at least one of first lock 116 and second lock 118 is moved between the unlocked position and the locked position. In alternative embodiments, guard 122 is positionable in any manner that enables guard 122 to function as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 122 includes an L-shaped member 121 and an arm 123 connected to L-shaped member 121. The configuration of guard 122 facilitates guard 122 coupling to first lock 116 and second lock 118 and allows guard 122 to extend across actuating mechanism 166. In alternative embodiments, first lock assembly 112 includes any guard 122 that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 122 includes a first opening 158 and a second opening 160. First opening 158 is arranged to receive first link 154. Second opening 160 is arranged to receive second link 156. In the exemplary embodiments, each of first link 154 and second link 156 includes a pair of arms 153 defining a gap 155. Accordingly, first link 154 and second link 156 are yoke-shaped Gap 155 is sized to receive a portion of guard 122. Pins 157 extend across gaps 155 between respective arms 153 to engage guard 122. First link 154 and second link 156 are arranged to engage guard 122 such that rotational movement of first lock 116 or second lock 118 is translated by arms 153 into linear movement of guard 122. Accordingly, first lock 116 and second lock 118 move guard 122 between the first position and the second position. Specifically, first link 154 and second link 156 contact edges 161 of guard 122 and cause guard 122 to move between the first position and the second position when first link 154 and/or second link 156 is displaced by movement of first lock 116 and/or second lock 118. A biasing member 162 is coupled to guard 122 and biases guard 122 towards the first position and towards first link 154 and second link 156. In alternative embodiments, guard 122, first lock 116, and/or second lock 118 are coupled in any manner that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first link 154 and/or second link 156 is omitted and guard 122 directly engages first lock 116, second lock 118, first shaft 128, and/or second shaft 132.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, first lock assembly 112 is configured to allow movement of guard 122 relative to first link 154 and second link 156. For example, guard 122 may be manually moved between the first position and the second position while first lock 116 and second lock 118 remain stationary. In the exemplary embodiment, first opening 158 and second opening 160 are rectangular slots and are sized to allow movement of guard 122 relative to first link 154 and second link 156. In alternative embodiments, guard 122 is positionable in any manner that enables first lock assembly 112 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 122 is arranged to receive a padlock 164 (shown in Fig. 2) . As a result, guard 122 may be coupled in at least one of the first position and the second position. In the exemplary embodiment, padlock 164 is configured to maintain guard 122 in the second position. Specifically, padlock 164 couples guard 122 to a portion of electrical power distribution system 100 adjacent actuating mechanism 166 and prevents access to actuating mechanism 166. In alternative embodiments, guard 122 is secured in position in any manner that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, guard 122 is removably coupled to a portion of electrical power distribution system 100 by an attachment device including, for example and without limitation, a fastener, a clip, an adhesive, a hook, and any other suitable attachment device.

Fig. 9 is a front perspective view of a portion of second lock assembly 113 of electrical power distribution system 100 (shown in Fig. 1) . Fig. 10 is a rear perspective view of a portion of second lock assembly 113. Circuit protection device 106 (shown in Fig. 1) is positionable between a first, testing position and a second, working position. Second lock assembly 113 prevents improper operation of circuit protection device 106 and prevents current flowing through portions of electrical power distribution system 100 when an operator accesses electrical power distribution system 100. In alternative embodiments, circuit protection device 106 and second lock assembly 113 have any configuration that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

Second lock assembly 113 includes a third lock 168, a fourth lock 170, a connector 172, and a guard 174. Third lock 168 defines a first keyhole or opening 176 configured to receive a key or tool (not shown) for operating third lock 168. Fourth lock 170 defines a second keyhole or opening 178 configured to receive a key or tool (not shown) for operating fourth lock 170. In the exemplary embodiment, third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 are positionable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In alternative embodiments, second lock assembly 113 includes any lock that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second lock assembly 113 is coupled to bracket 126 (shown in Fig. 2) and plate 129. Third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 are coupled to plate 129. Plate 129, connector 172, and guard 174 are coupled to bracket 126 such that bracket 126 supports plate 129, connector 172, and guard 174. Connector 172 and guard 174 are arranged to move relative to bracket 126. Bracket 126 is used to mount second lock assembly 113 within electrical power distribution system 100 (shown in Fig. 1) . In alternative embodiments, second lock assembly 113 is supported and/or mounted to electrical power distribution system 100 in any manner that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, third lock 168 is coupled to a third shaft 180. Third lock 168 and third shaft 180 are configured to rotate about an axis 181 defined through third shaft 180. Fourth lock 170 is coupled to a fourth shaft 182. Fourth lock 170 and fourth shaft 182 are configured to rotate about an axis 183 defined through fourth shaft 182. Axis 183 of fourth shaft 182 is parallel to and spaced from axis 181 of third shaft 180. In the exemplary embodiment, at least a portion of third shaft 180 and fourth shaft 182 are rectangular cuboids and are configured to engage connector 172. Third shaft 180 and fourth shaft 182 extend through openings defined in plate 129. In alternative embodiments, second lock assembly 113 includes any third shaft 180 and/or fourth shaft 182 that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, third shaft 180 and fourth shaft 182 include cylindrical portions.

To operate second lock assembly 113, an operator positions a key or tool (not shown) into keyhole 176 of third lock 168 or keyhole 178 of fourth lock 170 and rotates the key to move third lock 168 or fourth lock 170 between the unlocked position and the locked position. In alternative embodiments, third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 have any configuration that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, third lock 168 and/or fourth lock 170 include a component configured to move linearly and do not necessarily rotate.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, connector 172 includes a body 186 defining a first opening 188 configured to receive third shaft 180 and a second opening 190 configured to receive fourth shaft 182. Connector 172 is coupled to a link 185 coupled to an indicator 184. Accordingly, connector 172 couples third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 to indicator 184 via link 185. In alternative embodiments, connector 172 is coupled to any component that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

In the exemplary embodiment, first opening 188 of connector 172 includes a first portion 192 and a second portion 194. First portion 192 is defined by a curved edge and is circular. In addition, first portion 192 is larger than third shaft 180. Accordingly, first portion 192 of first opening 188 allows third shaft 180 to rotate relative to connector 172. Second portion 194 is shaped to prevent rotation of third shaft 180. Second portion 194 is defined by linear edges and has a rectangular shape. Moreover, a width of second portion 194 is less than the diagonal of the rectangular portion of third shaft 180. Accordingly, second portion 194 inhibits third shaft 180 rotating relative to connector 172.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second opening 190 of connector 172 includes a first portion 196 and a second portion 198. First portion 196 is shaped to allow rotation of fourth shaft 182. In particular, first portion 196 is defined by a curved edge and is circular. In addition, first portion 196 is larger than fourth shaft 182. Accordingly, first portion 196 of second opening 190 allows fourth shaft 182 to rotate relative to connector 172 when fourth shaft 182 is positioned in first portion 196. Second portion 198 is shaped to prevent rotation of fourth shaft 182. Second portion 198 is defined by linear edges and has a rectangular shape. Moreover, a width of second portion 198 is less than the diagonal of the rectangular portion of fourth shaft 182. Accordingly, second portion 198 of second opening 190 inhibits fourth shaft 182 rotating relative to connector 172. In alternative embodiments, connector 172 includes any opening that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second opening 190 is a mirror image of first opening 188 about an axis 191 extending between first opening 188 and second opening 190. In alternative embodiments, first opening 188 and second opening 190 have any configuration that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first opening 188 is elongated in a first direction and second opening 190 is elongated in a second direction different from the first direction. In further embodiments, first opening 188 and second opening 190 have different shapes.

In the exemplary embodiment, connector 172 of second lock assembly 113 is positionable between a first position and a second position. During operation of second lock assembly 113, in the exemplary embodiment, indicator 184 causes connector 172 to move linearly between the first position and the second position. When connector 172 is in the first position, third shaft 180 is received in first portion 192 of first opening 188 and fourth shaft 182 is received in first portion 196 of second opening 190. When connector 172 is in the second position, third shaft 180 is received in the second portion 194 of first opening 188 and fourth shaft 182 is received in second portion 198 of second opening 190. Accordingly, connector 172 provides mutually exclusive operation of third lock 168 and fourth lock 170. For example, third lock 168 is allowed to move and fourth lock 170 is inhibited from moving when connector 172 is in the first position. When connector 172 is moved to the second position, fourth lock 170 is allowed to move and third lock 168 is inhibited from moving. In alternative embodiments, connector 172 has any position that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, indicator 184 is displaced when circuit protection device 106 (shown in Fig. 2) is moved between the first position and the second position. For example, in some embodiments, indicator 184 is displaced by a truck of electrical power distribution system 100 when the truck and circuit protection device 106 is moved between a testing position and a working position. When indicator 184 is displaced, indicator 184 creates tension in link 185 which causes connector 172 to move between the first position and the second position. In alternative embodiments, electrical power distribution system 100 (shown in Fig. 1) includes any indicator 184 that enables electrical power distribution system 100 to operate as described herein.

Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, at least one biasing member (not shown in Figs. 9 and 10) is coupled to connector 172 and biases connector 172 towards the first position. Accordingly, connector 172 remains in the first position until a force acts on connector 172 and overcomes the biasing force of the biasing member. In alternative embodiments, second lock assembly 113 includes any biasing member that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 174 is coupled to third lock 168 by a first link 202. Guard 174 is coupled to second lock by a second link 204. Guard 174 extends from third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 towards an actuating mechanism (not shown in Figs. 9 and 10) of circuit protection device 106 (shown in Fig. 1) . Guard 174 is positionable between a first position and a second position. In the exemplary embodiment, guard 174 is arranged to move between the first position and the second position when at least one of third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 is moved between the unlocked position and the locked position. In alternative embodiments, guard 174 is positionable in any manner that enables guard 174 to function as described herein.

Also, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 174 includes an L-shaped member 206 and an arm 208 connected to L-shaped member 206. The configuration of guard 174 facilitates guard 174 coupling to third lock 168 and fourth lock 170. In alternative embodiments, second lock assembly 113 includes any guard 174 that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

Moreover, in the exemplary embodiment, guard 174 includes a first opening 210 and a second opening 212. First opening 210 is arranged to receive first link 202. Second opening 212 is arranged to receive second link 204. In the exemplary embodiments, each of first link 202 and second link 204 includes a pair of arms 214 defining a gap 216. Accordingly, first link 202 and second link 204 are yoke-shaped. Gap 216 is sized to receive a portion of guard 174. Pins 218 extend across gaps 216 between respective arms 214 to engage guard 174. First link 202 and second link 204 are arranged to engage guard 174 such that rotational movement of third lock 168 or fourth lock 170 is translated by arms 214 into linear movement of guard 174. Accordingly, third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 move guard 174 between the first position and the second position. Specifically, first link 202 and second link 204 contact edges 219 of guard 174 and cause guard 174 to move between the first position and the second position when first link 202 and/or second link 204 is displaced by movement of third lock 168 and/or fourth lock 170. In alternative embodiments, guard 174, third lock 168, and/or fourth lock 170 are coupled in any manner that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein. For example, in some embodiments, first link 202 and/or second link 204 is omitted and guard 174 directly engages third lock 168, fourth lock 170, third shaft 180, and/or fourth shaft 182.

In addition, in the exemplary embodiment, second lock assembly 113 is configured to allow movement of guard 174 relative to first link 202 and second link 204. For example, guard 174 may be manually moved between the first position and the second position while third lock 168 and fourth lock 170 remain stationary. In the exemplary embodiment, first opening 210 and second opening 212 are rectangular slots and are sized to allow movement of guard 174 relative to first link 202 and second link 204. In alternative embodiments, guard 174 is positionable in any manner that enables second lock assembly 113 to operate as described herein.

Embodiments of the electrical power distribution system described above include a plurality of lock assemblies. A first lock assembly of the plurality of lock assemblies includes a guard that restricts access to a switch device of the electrical power distribution system. A second lock assembly of the plurality of lock assemblies includes an indicator that indicates a position of a circuit protection device and restricts access to the circuit protection device when the indicator indicates that the circuit protection device is in a second position. Each lock assembly includes locks that are coupled to a connector. The connector provides mutually exclusive operation of the locks within each lock assembly. In addition, the lock assemblies prevent insertion of a tool when the respective lock is in a locked position.

An exemplary technical effect of the methods, systems, and apparatus described herein includes at least one of: (a) restricting access to components of an electrical power distribution system when a lock assembly is in a locked position; (b) preventing operators from overriding a lock assembly of an electrical power distribution system; (c) providing locks that are connected by a connector that allows mutually exclusive operation of the locks; (d) providing an indication to an operator of a position of a switch device; and (e) enabling the isolation of circuit protection devices of an electrical power distribution system to allow safe access to the electrical power distribution system.

Exemplary embodiments of electrical power distribution systems are described above in detail. The electrical power distribution systems are not limited to the specific embodiments described herein but, rather, components of the electrical power distribution systems and operations may be utilized independently and separately from other components and/or operations described herein. Further, the described components and/or operations may also be defined in, or used in combination with, other systems, methods, and/or devices, and are not limited to practice with only the electrical power distribution systems and apparatuses described herein.

The order of execution or performance of the operations in the embodiments of the disclosure illustrated and described herein is not essential, unless otherwise specified. That is, the operations may be performed in any order, unless otherwise specified, and embodiments of the disclosure may include additional or fewer operations than those disclosed herein. For example, it is contemplated that executing or performing a particular operation before, contemporaneously with, or after another operation is within the scope of aspects of the disclosure.

Although specific features of various embodiments of the disclosure may be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only. In accordance with the principles of the disclosure, any feature of a drawing may be referenced and/or claimed in combination with any feature of any other drawing.

This written description uses examples to disclose the disclosure, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the disclosure, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the disclosure is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal language of the claims.

electrical power distribution system 100

circuit protection device 106

switch device 110

first lock assembly 112

second lock assembly 113

first lock 116

second lock 118

connector 120

guard 122

opening 124

opening 125

bracket 126

first shaft 128

plate 129

axis 130

windows 131

second shaft 132

axis 134

body 136

first opening 138

second opening 140

first portion 142

second portion 144

first portion 146

second portion 148

axis 150

biasing member 152

arms 153

first link 154

gap 155

second link 156

pins 157

first opening 158

second opening 160

edges 161

biasing member 162

padlock 164

actuating mechanism 166

third lock 168

fourth lock 170

connector 172

guard 174

opening 176

opening 178

third shaft 180

axis 181

fourth shaft 182

axis 183

indicator 184

link 185

body 186

first opening 188

second opening 190

axis 191

first portion 192

second portion 194

first portion 196

second portion 198

first link 202

second link 204

L-shaped member 206

arm 208

first opening 210

second opening 212

arms 214

gap 216

pins 218

edges 219

Claims

An electrical power distribution system comprising:

a circuit protection device arranged to interrupt current flowing through a circuit, wherein said circuit protection device is positionable between a circuit protection device first position and a circuit protection device second position;

a switch device coupled to said circuit protection device, wherein said switch device is positionable between a switch device first position and a switch device second position, said switch device comprising an actuating mechanism;

a first lock assembly coupled to said switch device, said first lock assembly comprising:

a first lock rotatable about a first axis;

a second lock rotatable about a second axis;

a first connector coupled to said switch device, said first connector extending from said switch device to said first lock and said second lock, wherein said first connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said first lock when said switch device is in the switch device first position, and wherein said first connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said second lock when said switch device is in the switch device second position; and

a second lock assembly comprising:

an indicator arranged to indicate the position of said circuit protection device;

a third lock rotatable about a third axis;

a fourth lock rotatable about a fourth axis; and

a second connector coupled to said indicator, wherein said second connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said third lock when said circuit protection device is in the circuit protection device first position, and wherein said second connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said fourth lock when said circuit protection device is in the circuit protection device second position.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said first lock is coupled to a first shaft, and wherein said second lock is coupled to a second shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 2, wherein said first connector comprises a body defining a first opening arranged to receive said first shaft, the first opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said first shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said first shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 3, wherein said first shaft comprises a cuboid portion.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 4, wherein the first portion is defined by a curved edge and the second portion is defined by a linear edge.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 3, wherein said body further defines a second opening arranged to receive said second shaft, the second opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said second shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said second shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 6, wherein said first connector is positionable between a first connector first position in which said first shaft is received in the first opening first portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening second portion, and a first connector second position in which said first shaft is received in the first opening second portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening first portion.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said third lock is coupled to a first shaft, and wherein said fourth lock is coupled to a second shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 8, wherein said second connector includes a body defining a first opening arranged to receive said first shaft, the first opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said first shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said first shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 9, wherein said first shaft comprises a cuboid portion.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 10, wherein the first portion is defined by a curved edge and the second portion is defined by a linear edge.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 9, wherein said body further defines a second opening arranged to receive said second shaft, the second opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said second shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said second shaft.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 12, wherein said second connector is positionable between a second connector first position in which said first shaft is received in the first opening first portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening second portion, and a second connector second position in which said first shaft is received in the first opening second portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening first portion.
The electrical power distribution system in accordance with Claim 1, wherein said first lock assembly comprises a support plate, and wherein at least one of said support plate and said first connector defines a window that provides a line of sight to said switch device.
A lock assembly for a circuit protection device of an electrical power distribution system, said lock assembly comprising:

an indicator arranged to indicate a position of said circuit protection device;

a first lock rotatable about a first axis;

a second lock rotatable about a second axis; and

a connector coupled to said first lock and said second lock, wherein said indicator is coupled to said connector and arranged to cause said connector to move between a connector first position and a connector second position, wherein said connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said first lock when said connector is in the connector first position, and wherein said connector is arranged to prevent rotation of said second lock when said connector is in the connector second position.
The lock assembly in accordance with Claim 15, wherein said first lock is coupled to a first shaft, and wherein said second lock is coupled to a second shaft.
The lock assembly in accordance with Claim 16, wherein said connector includes a body defining a first opening arranged to receive said first shaft, the first opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said first shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said first shaft.
The lock assembly in accordance with Claim 17, wherein said first shaft comprises a cuboid portion, and wherein said first portion is defined by a curved edge and said second portion is defined by a linear edge.
The lock assembly in accordance with Claim 18, wherein said body further defines a second opening arranged to receive said second shaft, the second opening including a first portion shaped to allow rotation of said second shaft and a second portion shaped to prevent rotation of said second shaft.
The lock assembly in accordance with Claim 19, wherein said first shaft is received in the first opening first portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening second portion when said connector is in the connector first position, and said first shaft is received in the first opening second portion and said second shaft is received in the second opening first portion when said connector is in the connector second position.