EP2804197B1 - Latching mechanism for activating a switch - Google Patents
Latching mechanism for activating a switch Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP2804197B1 EP2804197B1 EP13168202.3A EP13168202A EP2804197B1 EP 2804197 B1 EP2804197 B1 EP 2804197B1 EP 13168202 A EP13168202 A EP 13168202A EP 2804197 B1 EP2804197 B1 EP 2804197B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- latching mechanism
- linear actuator
- latch element
- latch
- clamp
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 230000007246 mechanism Effects 0.000 title claims description 115
- 230000003213 activating effect Effects 0.000 title claims description 14
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 22
- 230000008859 change Effects 0.000 claims description 6
- 230000008602 contraction Effects 0.000 claims description 5
- 238000003825 pressing Methods 0.000 claims description 4
- 230000004323 axial length Effects 0.000 claims description 2
- 230000015556 catabolic process Effects 0.000 description 7
- 238000006731 degradation reaction Methods 0.000 description 7
- 238000006073 displacement reaction Methods 0.000 description 7
- 230000002829 reductive effect Effects 0.000 description 6
- 230000003068 static effect Effects 0.000 description 5
- 230000004044 response Effects 0.000 description 4
- 230000001419 dependent effect Effects 0.000 description 3
- 230000009467 reduction Effects 0.000 description 2
- 229910000831 Steel Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000004888 barrier function Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000009286 beneficial effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000919 ceramic Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000003247 decreasing effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000004146 energy storage Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000977 initiatory effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 230000000670 limiting effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000000463 material Substances 0.000 description 1
- 239000002184 metal Substances 0.000 description 1
- 229910001092 metal group alloy Inorganic materials 0.000 description 1
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 1
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000000452 restraining effect Effects 0.000 description 1
- 239000010959 steel Substances 0.000 description 1
- 230000002459 sustained effect Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
- H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
- H01H71/12—Automatic release mechanisms with or without manual release
- H01H71/127—Automatic release mechanisms with or without manual release using piezoelectric, electrostrictive or magnetostrictive trip units
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
- H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
- H01H71/12—Automatic release mechanisms with or without manual release
- H01H71/128—Manual release or trip mechanisms, e.g. for test purposes
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
- H01H—ELECTRIC SWITCHES; RELAYS; SELECTORS; EMERGENCY PROTECTIVE DEVICES
- H01H71/00—Details of the protective switches or relays covered by groups H01H73/00 - H01H83/00
- H01H71/10—Operating or release mechanisms
- H01H71/50—Manual reset mechanisms which may be also used for manual release
- H01H71/505—Latching devices between operating and release mechanism
Definitions
- Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a latching mechanism for activating a switch. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein. Additionally, embodiments of a method of unlatching a latching mechanism are disclosed.
- Switches having a short response time are needed for many applications, e.g. circuit breakers for low, medium and high voltage.
- Typical circuit breakers are driven by a drive unit with stored energy and a latching mechanism used for restraining the drive unit from activating the circuit breaker.
- Conventional latching mechanisms are robust and safe, but are quite restricted in their release time. Usually they are based on form-fit locking, which means that the part to be latched is geometrically hindered to move until exactly this geometrical barrier is moved away.
- latching mechanisms are based on a complex system of different levers in order to achieve force degradation in several stages, that in a further consequence allow using a small and simple actuator to activate the release.
- relatively large displacement - low force actuators like solenoids are used.
- latching mechanisms having a complex system of different levers for force degradation have disadvantages.
- their complexity introduces a lot of inertia that in the end causes longer response times.
- conventional latching mechanisms are difficult to adapt for fast response time as needed for ultra-fast applications.
- EP-A2-1983542 discloses a latching mechanism for actuating a switch according to the preamble of claim 1.
- a latching mechanism that overcomes at least some of the problems in the prior art.
- This object is achieved by providing a latching mechanism with reduced complexity based on a friction-locking concept.
- this object is achieved at least to some extent by a latching mechanism, a limiting switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein and a method of unlatching a latching mechanism according to the independent claims.
- a latching mechanism for activating a switch comprising a latch element, at least one linear actuator, and a first clamp element.
- the latching mechanism is configured to change between a latched state and an unlatched state, wherein in the latched state the at least one linear actuator is extended along a longitudinal axis and presses the latch element against the first clamp element to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element and the first clamp element. In an unlatched state the at least one linear actuator is contracted along the longitudinal axis thereby releasing the frictional locking between the latch element and the first clamp element to thereby allow a movement of the latch element for activating the switch.
- a switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein.
- the switch further comprises a movable mechanical contact element coupled with a contact element of the switch, wherein in the latched state the mechanical contact element is held back by the latch element thereby hindering an opening movement of the electrical contact element, and wherein in the unlatched state the mechanical contact element is released by the latch element thereby enabling the opening movement of the electrical contact element.
- a method of unlatching a latching mechanism comprises releasing a frictional locking between a latch element and a first clamp element by actuating at least one linear actuator such that the latch element is able to perform a movement for activating a switch.
- the present disclosure is also directed to an apparatus for carrying out the disclosed methods and including apparatus parts for performing each described method steps. These method steps may be performed by way of hardware components, a computer programmed by appropriate software, by any combination of the two, or in any other manner. Furthermore, the invention is also directed to methods by which the described apparatus operates. It includes method steps for carrying out every function of the apparatus.
- activating a switch includes initiating a switch by means of releasing stored energy from an energy storage device, in particular from a drive unit.
- latch element is defined as an element of the latching mechanism which is latched in a latched state of the latching mechanism and is able to perform a movement into an unlatched state of the latching mechanism.
- latch is to be understood as holding, fixing or securing a particular position, particularly by static friction.
- a "movement of the latch element” is to be understood as a movement of the latch element relative to the clamp element.
- at least one degree of freedom of the latch element is limited by its arrangement in the latching mechanism such that the latch element preferably performs a guided movement in the unlatched state.
- a “movement of the latch element” is to be understood as a rotational movement around a rotational axis, which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism, and/or as a translational movement, which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism.
- the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism is defined as the axis along which a movement of the linear actuator occurs when changing from an extended state to a contracted state of the linear actuator and vice versa.
- clamp element is defined as an element of the latching mechanism by means of which the latch element can be latched in a latched state, particularly by static friction.
- the term "frictional locking” is to be understood as a frictional locking between a latch element and a clamp element for establishing a latched state, in which the movement of the latch element is restricted by means of static friction between the latch element and the clamp element.
- switch is to be understood as an electrical switch.
- the switch may also comprise a drive mechanism for the switch.
- the switch comprises at least one movable electrical contact element and a drive for moving the at least one electrical contact element.
- electrical contact element is to be understood as an element of a switch which is used to establish or interrupt an electrical contact.
- mechanical contact element is to be understood as an element which is held back by the latch element in the latched state.
- the mechanical contact element is operatively coupled to the switch, e.g. such that a movement of the mechanical contact element causes a movement of at least one movable electrical contact element of the switch.
- latch state is defined as the state of the latching mechanism in which the latch element is latched in a particular position by frictional locking with at least one clamp element.
- unlatched state is defined as the state of the latching mechanism in which the latch element is unlatched and able to perform a movement.
- extended state is defined as the state of a linear actuator which is extended along its longitudinal axis compared to the contracted state of the linear actuator.
- the term "contracted state” is defined as the state of a linear actuator which is contracted along its longitudinal axis with respect to its extended state.
- a latching mechanism 10 for activating a switch comprises a latch element 12, at least one linear actuator 11, and a first clamp element 13.
- the latching mechanism 10 is configured to change between a latched state and an unlatched state.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is extended along a longitudinal axis 20 and presses the latch element 12 against the first clamp element 13 to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is contracted along the longitudinal axis 20 thereby releasing the frictional locking between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 to thereby allow a movement of the latch element 12 for activating the switch.
- a typical movement of the latch element will be explained in more detail in the following e.g. with respect to Fig. 2
- a latching mechanism having reduced complexity is provided.
- a linear actuator particularly a high force - low displacement actuator
- the use of levers required for force degradation needed in conventional latching mechanisms for using small and simple actuators to activate the release can be avoided.
- the inertia of the latching mechanism according to the embodiments described herein is reduced resulting in a decreased response time compared to known latching mechanisms.
- the latching mechanism is based on frictional locking compared to conventional latching mechanisms only small displacements of the at least one linear actuator are required to unlatch the latching mechanism. Therefore, these small displacements can be performed very quickly.
- the latching mechanism is based on a radically different principle (frictional locking) compared to previous mechanisms and is thereby capable of realizing high speed latch release times from 0.1 ms to5 ms.
- the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 are designed to be stiff to ensure that the at least one actuator can provide the required clamping force with a minimal displacement for establishing the frictional locking.
- the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 comprise a material which is capable of withstanding a load caused by the clamping force such that no significant deformation of the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 occurs. Therefore, typically the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 are made of metal and/or metal alloys (e.g. steel) and/or ceramics.
- the latch element 12 is configured as a plate.
- the latch element 12 comprises a substantially flat first surface 121 and a substantially flat second surface 122, which are substantially parallel to each other.
- the first surface 121 and the second surface 122 are perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 20 of the linear actuator 11 and are arranged on opposing sides of the latch element 12.
- the latch element 12 is particularly adapted for establishing a frictional locking with corresponding flat surfaces, e.g. of the first clamp element 13.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is at least one of a piezo-actuator 11, a magnetostrictive actuator 11 and a hydraulic actuator 11.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 of the latching mechanism 10 is typically a "low displacement - high force" actuator 11.
- a latching mechanism 10 is provided with which levers for force degradation can be avoided.
- piezo-actuators, magnetostrictive actuators and hydraulic actuators are suitable for providing very high forces and small displacements.
- said actuators 11 require only little energy. Therefore, according to embodiments a low energy consuming latching mechanism 10 is provided.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 may, for example, be capable of providing a clamping force of at least 10 kN, particularly at least 15 kN, more particularly at least 20 kN. There is no particular upper limit on the clamping force.
- actuator 11 e.g. piezo actuator 11 or hydraulic actuator 11
- the clamping force can in principle be made arbitrarily large.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is adapted to change between a latched state and an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is used to generate a clamping force acting on the latch element 12 by pressing the latch element 12 against the first clamp element 13 to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 to thereby lock a position of the latch element 12.
- the frictional locking can be established by performing an extensional movement of the at least one linear actuator 11 along its longitudinal axis 20.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 presses against the substantially flat first surface 121 of the latch element 12 thereby pressing the substantially flat second surface 122 of the latch element 12 against the first clamp element 13.
- a friction force between the latch element 12 and the clamp element 13 is generated by the clamping force.
- the linear actuator 11 is arranged such that a change in length of the linear actuator 11 due to an extensional movement of the linear actuator 11 results in a pressure build-up between the latch element 12 and the clamp element 13.
- the latching mechanism 10 is configured such that in the unlatched state a clearance along the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism 10 is less than the possible length change of the linear actuator 11.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 is configured for contracting in a range from a lower limit of 10 ⁇ m, particularly 5 ⁇ m, more particularly ⁇ m, to an upper limit of 250 ⁇ m, particularly 150 ⁇ m, more particularly 100 ⁇ m, for changing from a latched state to an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10.
- the latching mechanism 10 is configured for releasing the frictional locking within a period from a lower limit of 0.5 ms, particularly 0.1 ms, more particularly 0.05 ms, to an upper limit of 5 ms, particularly 2.5 ms, more particularly 1.0 ms, when changing from the latched state to the unlatched state.
- the linear actuator 11 is configured to perform the contraction movement for changing from a latched state to an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10 within a period from a lower limit of 0.5 ms, particularly 0.1 ms, more particularly 0.05 ms, to an upper limit of 5 ms, particularly 2.5 ms, more particularly 1.0 ms.
- the latched state in which the at least one linear actuator 11 is extended, can be a power-off state or a power-on state of the linear actuator 11.
- the latched state is obtained in the power-on state of the linear actuator 11. Accordingly, a contraction of the piezo-actuator 11, and thereby the unlatched state, can be realized by changing the state of the piezo-actuator 11 to its power-off state or by reversing a voltage applied to the linear actuator 11 (negative power-on state, negative being defined as inverse voltage relative to the voltage of the extended/latched state).
- the power-off state can be obtained, e.g., by applying a short circuit to the linear actuator 11 so that the voltage applied to the piezo-actuator 11 drops to zero.
- the latched state is realized when the piezo-actuator 11 is extended in a power-off state; and the unlatched state is realized by changing the state of the piezo-actuator 11 to its power-on state (negative power-on state), i.e. by applying a (negative) voltage to the piezo-actuator 11, so that the piezo-actuator 11 is contracted.
- the contraction of the linear actuator 11 causes the frictional locking to be released by reducing the frictional force acting on the latch element 12. More particularly, the frictional force acting on the latch element 12 is reduced below a critical frictional force below which the latch element 12 is no longer held in a latched state by static friction, and a motion of the latch element 12 is allowed.
- the first clamp element 13 comprises a first end portion 131 and a second end portion 132 which are rigidly connected to each other by a connecting portion 133.
- a rigid connection may be established by various joining techniques, such as a screwing or clamping etc.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 and the latch element 12 are arranged axially between the first end portion 131 and the second end portion 132 of the clamp element 13, so that in the latched state the at least one linear actuator 11 and the latch element 12 are clamped between the first end portion 131 and the second end portion 132. This allows an effective static friction to be established by the actuator 11.
- the first clamp element 13 has a T-shaped anchor-like configuration.
- the longitudinal axis of the first clamp element 13 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator 11.
- typically a longer portion of the T-shaped anchor-like clamp element 13 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator 11, wherein a shorter portion of the T-shaped anchor-like clamp element 13 is typically arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator 11.
- the longitudinal axis of the first clamp element 13 is substantially identical with the longitudinal axis of the linear actuator 11. As shown in Fig.
- the dimensions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 20 of the first end portion 131 of the first clamp element 13 are increased compared to the corresponding dimensions of the connecting portion 133.
- the first end portion 131 is configured such that a substantially flat surface opposing the second surface 122 of the latch element 12 is provided for frictional locking.
- the first clamp element 13 is rotational symmetrical around its longitudinal axis.
- the connecting portion 133 of the first clamp element 13 extends through a hole in the latch element 12 and through an axial hole of one of the at least one linear actuator 11.
- a compact design of the latching mechanism 10 can be realized.
- a design of the latching mechanism 10 in which the first clamp element 13 extends through the actuator is beneficial for generating a homogeneous clamping force acting on the latch element 12 to thereby establish a homogenous frictional locking.
- the dimensions perpendicular to the longitudinal axis 20 of the second end portion 132 of the first clamp element 13 are increased compared to the corresponding dimensions of the connecting portion 133 for providing a substantially flat surface opposing the substantially flat surface 122 of the latch element 12.
- At least one of the first end portion 131 and the second end portion 132 of the first clamp element 13 form an integral part with the connecting portion 133.
- Fig. 1 shows an example of a typical embodiment in which the first end portion 131 having increased dimensions forms an integral part with the connecting portion 133 while the second end portion 132 having increased dimensions is designed as a separate part.
- the number of components of the latching mechanism 10 can be reduced leading to a reduction in complexity and in particular to an increased stiffness of the first clamp element 13.
- the second end portion 132 of the first clamp element 13 comprises an adjusting element 14 for adjusting an axial length between the first end portion 131 and the second end portion 132.
- the adjusting element 14 is used to apply a pre-stress to the linear actuator 11.
- pre-stress is to be understood as a stress applied to the at least one linear actuator 11 along its longitudinal axis before the at least one linear actuator 11 is changed into its extended state for latching the latch element 12.
- An application of a pre-stress to a linear actuator 11 is particularly used for a reduction of the load acting on the actuator 11 when the latching mechanism 10 is unlatched in a very short period of time of less than 5 ms.
- the adjusting element 14 is a pre-stress screw 14 mounted on an outer screw thread on the second end of the first clamp element 13. Further, typically as shown in Fig.1 the second end portion 132 of the first clamp element 13 comprises a counter screw 15 for securing the adjusting element 14.
- a second clamp element 16 can be arranged between the at least one linear actuator 11 and the latch element 12, such that in the latched state the at least one linear actuator 11 presses the second clamp element 16 onto the first surface 121 of the latch element 12 to thereby establish a frictional locking between the first surface 121 of the latch element 12 and the second clamp element 16.
- the at least one linear actuator 11 further presses the first clamp element 13 onto the second surface 122 of the latch element 12. Thereby a frictional locking between a substantially flat surface of the first clamp element 13 and the second surface 122 of the latch element 12 can be established.
- the latch element 12 is clamped between the first clamp element 13 and the second clamp element 16.
- the second clamp element 16 is configured as a plate element 16, particularly as a ring-shaped element 16, which is arranged on an outer circumference of the connecting portion of the first clamp element 13.
- the second clamp element 16 is movable in an axial direction of the first clamp element 13.
- the second clamp element 16 can be guided on the outer circumference of its connecting portion 133.
- an outer circumference of the first end portion 131 of the clamping element 13 and an outer circumference of the second clamp element 16 are supported by bearings 30, particularly needle bearings.
- Fig. 2 a perspective view of a latching mechanism 10 which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latching element 12 is depicted.
- the latch element 12 comprises a protrusion 12a from which in a latched state a movable mechanical contact element 40 of a switch is held back. Thereby, an opening movement of the mechanical contact element 40 is hindered.
- the movable mechanical contact element 40 is biased such that the mechanical contact element 40 exerts a torque on the latch element 12.
- an embodiment as illustrated in Fig. 2 typically comprises a clamp element having a first end portion 131 (not shown). It is to be understood that generally the embodiments as illustrated in Fig.2 may comprise the same elements as described with respect to the embodiment as shown in Fig. 1 .
- embodiments of latching mechanism 10 described herein may comprise a guidance element 17 for guiding the movement of the latch element 12, at least in the beginning of the movement of the latch element 12 directly after unlatching.
- the guidance element 17 can be arranged and configured such that the latch element 12 presses against the guidance element 17 for at least partially compensating a force originating from the torque acting on the latch element 12 by the mechanical contact element 40.
- the guidance element 17 can engage with the latch element 12.
- the engagement is realized by a recess in the latch element 12 into which the guidance element 17 engages.
- the engagement is configured such that in an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10 a sliding movement of the latch plate 12 along an essentially plane surface of the guidance element 17 is possible.
- the latch element 12 slides along a contact surface between the guidance element 17 and the latch element 12 before the latch plate 12 performs a rotational movement for completely releasing the mechanical contact element 40.
- This movement is, according to an example, driven by a biasing force acting on the mechanical contact element 40, e.g. due to a biasing element such as a spring acting on the mechanical contact element 40.
- the mechanical contact element 40 is free to perform a movement (the movement for which it is biased) for actuating the switch.
- the mechanical contact element 40 is operationally coupled to an electrical contact element of the switch such that the switch is actuated (opened or closed) by the movement of the mechanical contact element 40.
- the mechanical contact element 40 is connected to the movable electrical contact element of the switch rigidly or via a motion-transmitting element, such as a gear.
- a bearing 35 preferably a needle bearing, is provided between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13.
- the latching mechanism 10 comprises a stop element 18.
- the latch mechanism 10 is configured such that from the instant at which the latch plate 12 looses contact with the guidance element 17, the latch element 12 and /or the first clamp element 13 and/ or the second clamp element 16 and/ or the at least one linear actuator 11 start to rotate due to the loss of resistance hindering a rotational movement of said elements. Therefore, the stop element 18 is arranged and configured to stop said rotational movements, after sufficient rotation. After said rotational movement has been stopped, the latch plate 12 and /or the first clamp element 13 and/ or the second clamp element 16 and/ or the at least one linear actuator 11 are turned back to their initial position.
- This initial position can be latched again by simply actuating the linear actuator 11, such that the at least one linear actuator 11 presses the latch element 12 against the first clamp element 12 to thereby re-establish a frictional locking between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13.
- a switch (not shown) comprising a latching mechanism 10 described herein is provided.
- the switch comprises a movable mechanical contact element 40.
- the mechanical contact element 40 in the latched state the mechanical contact element 40 is held back by the latch element 12 thereby hindering a movement of the mechanical contact element 40, and in the unlatched state the mechanical contact element 40 is released by the latch element 12 thereby enabling the movement of the mechanical contact element 40 due to which the switch is opened (or closed) as described in connection with Fig. 2 .
- FIG. 3 and Fig. 4 embodiments of the latching mechanism 10 are shown in a cut view similar to Fig. 2 , wherein the latch element 12 is arranged having a fixed pivot axis 19 around which the latch element 12 can perform a rotational movement into an unlatched state.
- the arrow F in Fig. 3 and 4 indicates the force acting on the latch element 12 due to a biased mechanical contact element 40, as explained in more detail with respect to the embodiment shown in Fig. 2 .
- the embodiments of the latching mechanism shown in Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 essentially differ from the embodiment as shown in Fig. 2 in the particular shape of the latch element 12.
- a latching force degradation can be adjusted depending on the contact angle between the force direction and the orientation of the contact surface between the mechanical contact element 40 and the latch element 12.
- a latching mechanism 10 is provided with which a certain force degradation can be achieved. Consequently, the linear actuators 11 used in embodiments comprising a latch element 12 with which force degradation is achievable can be configured smaller, or the latching force can be correspondingly higher.
- description of Fig.2 applies also to Figs. 3 and 4 .
- the latching mechanism 10 According to embodiments of the latching mechanism 10 described herein, at least two linear actuators 11 are arranged in parallel, as exemplarily shown in Figs. 5 and 6 .
- the configuration of an embodiment comprising two parallel arranged linear actuators 11 is substantially the same as for embodiments in which only one linear actuator 11 is employed (see Fig. 1 ), with the difference that typically the latch element 12 is configured differently.
- the latch element 12 can comprise an elongated hole configured such that the latch element 12 can only perform a linear movement in an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10.
- said linear movement of the latch element 12 in an unlatched state is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the at least two linear actuators 11.
- the latch element 12 as shown in Figs. 5 and 6 may also comprise a protrusion (not shown) from which in a latched state a movable mechanical contact element 40 of a switch is held back, as explained in more detail with respect to the embodiments as illustrated in Figs. 2 to 4 .
- a clamping force of the latching mechanism 10 can be increased.
- a latching mechanism 10 having two actuators 11 typically has the capability of generating a clamping force which is twice the amount of the clamping force which can be generated by a latching mechanism 10 having only one linear actuator 11.
- a method of unlatching a latching mechanism 10 as exemplarily shown in Fig. 7 is provided.
- the method of unlatching the latching mechanism 10 comprises releasing 201 a frictional locking between a latch element 12 and a first clamp element 13 by actuating at least one linear actuator 11 such that the latch element 12 is able to perform a movement for activating 202 a switch.
- a latching mechanism 10 as described herein is employed for the method of unlatching the latching mechanism 10.
- actuating the at least one linear actuator 11 includes a contraction of the at least one linear actuator 11 along its longitudinal axis 20.
- releasing the frictional locking between the latch element 12 and the first clamp element 13 occurs within 0.05 ms to 5 ms.
Landscapes
- Driving Mechanisms And Operating Circuits Of Arc-Extinguishing High-Tension Switches (AREA)
- Infusion, Injection, And Reservoir Apparatuses (AREA)
- Switch Cases, Indication, And Locking (AREA)
Description
- Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a latching mechanism for activating a switch. Further, embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein. Additionally, embodiments of a method of unlatching a latching mechanism are disclosed.
- Switches having a short response time are needed for many applications, e.g. circuit breakers for low, medium and high voltage. Typical circuit breakers are driven by a drive unit with stored energy and a latching mechanism used for restraining the drive unit from activating the circuit breaker. Conventional latching mechanisms are robust and safe, but are quite restricted in their release time. Usually they are based on form-fit locking, which means that the part to be latched is geometrically hindered to move until exactly this geometrical barrier is moved away. Normally, such latching mechanisms are based on a complex system of different levers in order to achieve force degradation in several stages, that in a further consequence allow using a small and simple actuator to activate the release. Typically, in conventional latching mechanisms relatively large displacement - low force actuators like solenoids are used.
- However, latching mechanisms having a complex system of different levers for force degradation have disadvantages. In particular, their complexity introduces a lot of inertia that in the end causes longer response times. Hence, conventional latching mechanisms are difficult to adapt for fast response time as needed for ultra-fast applications.
- Standard unlatching times are around 3 ms - 10 ms at present. Nevertheless, new products like DC breakers for example necessitate latching mechanisms that are able to operate more than one order of magnitude faster than the existing latches.
-
EP-A2-1983542 discloses a latching mechanism for actuating a switch according to the preamble of claim 1. - In view of the above, it is an object of the present disclosure to provide a latching mechanism that overcomes at least some of the problems in the prior art. This object is achieved by providing a latching mechanism with reduced complexity based on a friction-locking concept. In particular, this object is achieved at least to some extent by a latching mechanism, a limiting switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein and a method of unlatching a latching mechanism according to the independent claims. Further aspects, advantages, and features of the present disclosure are apparent from the dependent claims, their combinations, the description, and the accompanying drawings.
- In view of the above, a latching mechanism for activating a switch is provided, wherein the latching mechanism comprises a latch element, at least one linear actuator, and a first clamp element. The latching mechanism is configured to change between a latched state and an unlatched state, wherein in the latched state the at least one linear actuator is extended along a longitudinal axis and presses the latch element against the first clamp element to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element and the first clamp element. In an unlatched state the at least one linear actuator is contracted along the longitudinal axis thereby releasing the frictional locking between the latch element and the first clamp element to thereby allow a movement of the latch element for activating the switch.
- According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a switch comprising a latching mechanism described herein is provided. The switch further comprises a movable mechanical contact element coupled with a contact element of the switch, wherein in the latched state the mechanical contact element is held back by the latch element thereby hindering an opening movement of the electrical contact element, and wherein in the unlatched state the mechanical contact element is released by the latch element thereby enabling the opening movement of the electrical contact element.
- According to another aspect of the present disclosure a method of unlatching a latching mechanism is provided, wherein the method comprises releasing a frictional locking between a latch element and a first clamp element by actuating at least one linear actuator such that the latch element is able to perform a movement for activating a switch.
- The present disclosure is also directed to an apparatus for carrying out the disclosed methods and including apparatus parts for performing each described method steps. These method steps may be performed by way of hardware components, a computer programmed by appropriate software, by any combination of the two, or in any other manner. Furthermore, the invention is also directed to methods by which the described apparatus operates. It includes method steps for carrying out every function of the apparatus.
- Further aspects, advantages, and features of the present disclosure are apparent from the dependent claims, their combinations, the description, and the accompanying drawings.
- Thus, for understanding in detail the above recited features of the present disclosure, a more particular description of the disclosure, briefly summarized above, may be obtained by referencing to embodiments. Typical embodiments are depicted in the drawings and are detailed in the description which follows. In the drawings:
- Fig. 1
- shows a cross-sectional view of a latching mechanism along its longitudinal axis according to embodiments described herein;
- Fig. 2
- shows a perspective view of a latching mechanism which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latching element;
- Fig. 3
- shows a perspective view of a latching mechanism which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latching element according to an exemplary embodiment described herein;
- Fig. 4
- shows a perspective view of a latching mechanism which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latching element according to another exemplary embodiment described herein;
- Fig. 5
- shows a perspective view of a latching mechanism which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latching element according to embodiments described herein;
- Fig. 6
- shows a perspective view of a latching mechanism according to an embodiment as shown in
Fig. 5 is cut along its longitudinal axis; - Fig. 7
- shows an exemplary embodiment of a method of unlatching a latching mechanism.
- Reference will now be made in detail to the various embodiments, one or more examples of which are illustrated in each figure. Each embodiment or example is provided by way of explanation and is not meant as a limitation. For example, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used on or in conjunction with any other embodiment to yield yet a further embodiment. It is intended that the present disclosure includes such modifications and variations.
- Within the following description of the drawings, the same reference numbers refer to the same or to similar components. Generally, only the differences with respect to the individual embodiments are described. Unless specified otherwise, the description of a part or aspect in one embodiment applies to a corresponding part or aspect in another embodiment, as well.
- Generally, in the present disclosure "activating a switch" includes initiating a switch by means of releasing stored energy from an energy storage device, in particular from a drive unit.
- In the present disclosure the term "latch element" is defined as an element of the latching mechanism which is latched in a latched state of the latching mechanism and is able to perform a movement into an unlatched state of the latching mechanism. In this regard, "latched" is to be understood as holding, fixing or securing a particular position, particularly by static friction.
- In the present disclosure a "movement of the latch element" is to be understood as a movement of the latch element relative to the clamp element. Typically, at least one degree of freedom of the latch element is limited by its arrangement in the latching mechanism such that the latch element preferably performs a guided movement in the unlatched state. In particular, a "movement of the latch element" is to be understood as a rotational movement around a rotational axis, which is substantially parallel to the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism, and/or as a translational movement, which is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism.
- In the present disclosure the longitudinal axis of the latching mechanism is defined as the axis along which a movement of the linear actuator occurs when changing from an extended state to a contracted state of the linear actuator and vice versa.
- Further, in the present disclosure the term "clamp element" is defined as an element of the latching mechanism by means of which the latch element can be latched in a latched state, particularly by static friction.
- In the present disclosure the term "frictional locking" is to be understood as a frictional locking between a latch element and a clamp element for establishing a latched state, in which the movement of the latch element is restricted by means of static friction between the latch element and the clamp element.
- In the present disclosure the term "switch" is to be understood as an electrical switch. The switch may also comprise a drive mechanism for the switch. Typically, the switch comprises at least one movable electrical contact element and a drive for moving the at least one electrical contact element. In the present disclosure the term "electrical contact element" is to be understood as an element of a switch which is used to establish or interrupt an electrical contact.
- In the present disclosure the term "mechanical contact element" is to be understood as an element which is held back by the latch element in the latched state. Typically, the mechanical contact element is operatively coupled to the switch, e.g. such that a movement of the mechanical contact element causes a movement of at least one movable electrical contact element of the switch.
- In the present disclosure the term "latched state" is defined as the state of the latching mechanism in which the latch element is latched in a particular position by frictional locking with at least one clamp element.
- In the present disclosure the term "unlatched state" is defined as the state of the latching mechanism in which the latch element is unlatched and able to perform a movement.
- In the present disclosure the term "extended state" is defined as the state of a linear actuator which is extended along its longitudinal axis compared to the contracted state of the linear actuator.
- In the present disclosure the term "contracted state" is defined as the state of a linear actuator which is contracted along its longitudinal axis with respect to its extended state.
- As shown in
Fig. 1 , alatching mechanism 10 for activating a switch according to embodiments described herein comprises alatch element 12, at least onelinear actuator 11, and afirst clamp element 13. According to embodiments, thelatching mechanism 10 is configured to change between a latched state and an unlatched state. In the latched state, the at least onelinear actuator 11 is extended along alongitudinal axis 20 and presses thelatch element 12 against thefirst clamp element 13 to thereby establish a frictional locking between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13. In the unlatched state, the at least onelinear actuator 11 is contracted along thelongitudinal axis 20 thereby releasing the frictional locking between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 to thereby allow a movement of thelatch element 12 for activating the switch. A typical movement of the latch element will be explained in more detail in the following e.g. with respect toFig. 2 - Thereby, according to embodiments a latching mechanism having reduced complexity is provided. In particular, by employing a linear actuator, particularly a high force - low displacement actuator, the use of levers required for force degradation needed in conventional latching mechanisms for using small and simple actuators to activate the release can be avoided. Accordingly, the inertia of the latching mechanism according to the embodiments described herein is reduced resulting in a decreased response time compared to known latching mechanisms. Further, since the latching mechanism is based on frictional locking compared to conventional latching mechanisms only small displacements of the at least one linear actuator are required to unlatch the latching mechanism. Therefore, these small displacements can be performed very quickly. Hence, the latching mechanism is based on a radically different principle (frictional locking) compared to previous mechanisms and is thereby capable of realizing high speed latch release times from 0.1 ms to5 ms.
- According to embodiments, the
latch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 are designed to be stiff to ensure that the at least one actuator can provide the required clamping force with a minimal displacement for establishing the frictional locking. In particular, thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 comprise a material which is capable of withstanding a load caused by the clamping force such that no significant deformation of thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 occurs. Therefore, typically thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 are made of metal and/or metal alloys (e.g. steel) and/or ceramics. - As illustrated in
Fig. 1 , according to embodiments thelatch element 12 is configured as a plate. Typically, thelatch element 12 comprises a substantially flatfirst surface 121 and a substantially flatsecond surface 122, which are substantially parallel to each other. Further, thefirst surface 121 and thesecond surface 122 are perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 20 of thelinear actuator 11 and are arranged on opposing sides of thelatch element 12. Thereby, thelatch element 12 is particularly adapted for establishing a frictional locking with corresponding flat surfaces, e.g. of thefirst clamp element 13. - According to embodiments, the at least one
linear actuator 11 is at least one of a piezo-actuator 11, amagnetostrictive actuator 11 and ahydraulic actuator 11. Hence, the at least onelinear actuator 11 of thelatching mechanism 10 is typically a "low displacement - high force"actuator 11. Thereby, according to embodiments alatching mechanism 10 is provided with which levers for force degradation can be avoided. Particularly, piezo-actuators, magnetostrictive actuators and hydraulic actuators are suitable for providing very high forces and small displacements. Further, in a latched state of thelatching mechanism 10 saidactuators 11 require only little energy. Therefore, according to embodiments a low energy consuming latchingmechanism 10 is provided. Typically, dependent on the specific design of thelatching mechanism 10, the at least onelinear actuator 11 may, for example, be capable of providing a clamping force of at least 10 kN, particularly at least 15 kN, more particularly at least 20 kN. There is no particular upper limit on the clamping force. By selecting an appropriate kind of actuator 11 (e.g.piezo actuator 11 or hydraulic actuator 11) and by providing severallinear actuators 11 in parallel, the clamping force can in principle be made arbitrarily large. - According to embodiments, the at least one
linear actuator 11 is adapted to change between a latched state and an unlatched state of thelatching mechanism 10. Typically, the at least onelinear actuator 11 is used to generate a clamping force acting on thelatch element 12 by pressing thelatch element 12 against thefirst clamp element 13 to thereby establish a frictional locking between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 to thereby lock a position of thelatch element 12. In particular, the frictional locking can be established by performing an extensional movement of the at least onelinear actuator 11 along itslongitudinal axis 20. Thereby the at least onelinear actuator 11 presses against the substantially flatfirst surface 121 of thelatch element 12 thereby pressing the substantially flatsecond surface 122 of thelatch element 12 against thefirst clamp element 13. Thus, in a latched state of the latching mechanism 10 a friction force between thelatch element 12 and theclamp element 13 is generated by the clamping force. - As shown in
Fig. 1 , according to embodiments thelinear actuator 11 is arranged such that a change in length of thelinear actuator 11 due to an extensional movement of thelinear actuator 11 results in a pressure build-up between thelatch element 12 and theclamp element 13. In particular, typically thelatching mechanism 10 is configured such that in the unlatched state a clearance along the longitudinal axis of thelatching mechanism 10 is less than the possible length change of thelinear actuator 11. - According to embodiments, the at least one
linear actuator 11 is configured for contracting in a range from a lower limit of 10 µm, particularly 5 µm, more particularly µm, to an upper limit of 250 µm, particularly 150 µm, more particularly 100 µm, for changing from a latched state to an unlatched state of thelatching mechanism 10. - According to embodiments, the
latching mechanism 10 is configured for releasing the frictional locking within a period from a lower limit of 0.5 ms, particularly 0.1 ms, more particularly 0.05 ms, to an upper limit of 5 ms, particularly 2.5 ms, more particularly 1.0 ms, when changing from the latched state to the unlatched state. Accordingly, thelinear actuator 11 is configured to perform the contraction movement for changing from a latched state to an unlatched state of thelatching mechanism 10 within a period from a lower limit of 0.5 ms, particularly 0.1 ms, more particularly 0.05 ms, to an upper limit of 5 ms, particularly 2.5 ms, more particularly 1.0 ms. - According to embodiments using an electrically actuated
linear actuator 11 such as a piezo actuator, the latched state, in which the at least onelinear actuator 11 is extended, can be a power-off state or a power-on state of thelinear actuator 11. According to a first example, the latched state is obtained in the power-on state of thelinear actuator 11. Accordingly, a contraction of the piezo-actuator 11, and thereby the unlatched state, can be realized by changing the state of the piezo-actuator 11 to its power-off state or by reversing a voltage applied to the linear actuator 11 (negative power-on state, negative being defined as inverse voltage relative to the voltage of the extended/latched state). The power-off state can be obtained, e.g., by applying a short circuit to thelinear actuator 11 so that the voltage applied to the piezo-actuator 11 drops to zero. In a second example, the latched state is realized when the piezo-actuator 11 is extended in a power-off state; and the unlatched state is realized by changing the state of the piezo-actuator 11 to its power-on state (negative power-on state), i.e. by applying a (negative) voltage to the piezo-actuator 11, so that the piezo-actuator 11 is contracted. - Independently of the specific
linear actuator 11 and of the specific manner in which thelinear actuator 11 is caused to contract, the contraction of thelinear actuator 11 causes the frictional locking to be released by reducing the frictional force acting on thelatch element 12. More particularly, the frictional force acting on thelatch element 12 is reduced below a critical frictional force below which thelatch element 12 is no longer held in a latched state by static friction, and a motion of thelatch element 12 is allowed. - Next, the
clamp element 13 is described in more detail. According to embodiments, as illustrated inFig. 1 thefirst clamp element 13 comprises afirst end portion 131 and asecond end portion 132 which are rigidly connected to each other by a connectingportion 133. In this regard, it is to be understood that a rigid connection may be established by various joining techniques, such as a screwing or clamping etc. Typically, the at least onelinear actuator 11 and thelatch element 12 are arranged axially between thefirst end portion 131 and thesecond end portion 132 of theclamp element 13, so that in the latched state the at least onelinear actuator 11 and thelatch element 12 are clamped between thefirst end portion 131 and thesecond end portion 132. This allows an effective static friction to be established by theactuator 11. - According to embodiments, the
first clamp element 13 has a T-shaped anchor-like configuration. Typically, the longitudinal axis of thefirst clamp element 13 is parallel to the longitudinal axis of thelinear actuator 11. Hence, typically a longer portion of the T-shaped anchor-like clamp element 13 extends parallel to the longitudinal axis of thelinear actuator 11, wherein a shorter portion of the T-shaped anchor-like clamp element 13 is typically arranged substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of thelinear actuator 11. Particularly, the longitudinal axis of thefirst clamp element 13 is substantially identical with the longitudinal axis of thelinear actuator 11. As shown inFig. 1 , typically the dimensions perpendicular to thelongitudinal axis 20 of thefirst end portion 131 of thefirst clamp element 13 are increased compared to the corresponding dimensions of the connectingportion 133. Particularly, thefirst end portion 131 is configured such that a substantially flat surface opposing thesecond surface 122 of thelatch element 12 is provided for frictional locking. Typically, thefirst clamp element 13 is rotational symmetrical around its longitudinal axis. - According to embodiments, the connecting
portion 133 of thefirst clamp element 13 extends through a hole in thelatch element 12 and through an axial hole of one of the at least onelinear actuator 11. Thereby, a compact design of thelatching mechanism 10 can be realized. Further, a design of thelatching mechanism 10 in which thefirst clamp element 13 extends through the actuator is beneficial for generating a homogeneous clamping force acting on thelatch element 12 to thereby establish a homogenous frictional locking. - Further, typically the dimensions perpendicular to the
longitudinal axis 20 of thesecond end portion 132 of thefirst clamp element 13 are increased compared to the corresponding dimensions of the connectingportion 133 for providing a substantially flat surface opposing the substantiallyflat surface 122 of thelatch element 12. - According to embodiments at least one of the
first end portion 131 and thesecond end portion 132 of thefirst clamp element 13 form an integral part with the connectingportion 133.Fig. 1 shows an example of a typical embodiment in which thefirst end portion 131 having increased dimensions forms an integral part with the connectingportion 133 while thesecond end portion 132 having increased dimensions is designed as a separate part. Thereby, the number of components of thelatching mechanism 10 can be reduced leading to a reduction in complexity and in particular to an increased stiffness of thefirst clamp element 13. - According to embodiments, the
second end portion 132 of thefirst clamp element 13 comprises an adjustingelement 14 for adjusting an axial length between thefirst end portion 131 and thesecond end portion 132. In embodiments the adjustingelement 14 is used to apply a pre-stress to thelinear actuator 11. In this regard, pre-stress is to be understood as a stress applied to the at least onelinear actuator 11 along its longitudinal axis before the at least onelinear actuator 11 is changed into its extended state for latching thelatch element 12. An application of a pre-stress to alinear actuator 11 is particularly used for a reduction of the load acting on theactuator 11 when thelatching mechanism 10 is unlatched in a very short period of time of less than 5 ms. Typically, the adjustingelement 14 is apre-stress screw 14 mounted on an outer screw thread on the second end of thefirst clamp element 13. Further, typically as shown inFig.1 thesecond end portion 132 of thefirst clamp element 13 comprises acounter screw 15 for securing the adjustingelement 14. - According to embodiments, as exemplarily shown in
Fig. 1 , asecond clamp element 16 can be arranged between the at least onelinear actuator 11 and thelatch element 12, such that in the latched state the at least onelinear actuator 11 presses thesecond clamp element 16 onto thefirst surface 121 of thelatch element 12 to thereby establish a frictional locking between thefirst surface 121 of thelatch element 12 and thesecond clamp element 16. In particular, the at least onelinear actuator 11 further presses thefirst clamp element 13 onto thesecond surface 122 of thelatch element 12. Thereby a frictional locking between a substantially flat surface of thefirst clamp element 13 and thesecond surface 122 of thelatch element 12 can be established. Hence, according to embodiments in a latched state of thelatching mechanism 10 thelatch element 12 is clamped between thefirst clamp element 13 and thesecond clamp element 16. - According to embodiments, as exemplarily shown in
Fig. 1 , thesecond clamp element 16 is configured as aplate element 16, particularly as a ring-shapedelement 16, which is arranged on an outer circumference of the connecting portion of thefirst clamp element 13. Typically thesecond clamp element 16 is movable in an axial direction of thefirst clamp element 13. For example, thesecond clamp element 16 can be guided on the outer circumference of its connectingportion 133. - According to embodiments, an outer circumference of the
first end portion 131 of the clampingelement 13 and an outer circumference of thesecond clamp element 16 are supported bybearings 30, particularly needle bearings. Thereby, axial stability of thelatching mechanism 10 is provided and wear during the movement is reduced. Particularly, by supporting thelatching mechanism 10 withbearings 30 torsional stiffness of thelatching mechanism 10 can be improved. Thereby an effective and homogenous frictional locking can be established between thelatch element 12 and the clamp element(s) 13, 16. - In
Fig. 2 a perspective view of alatching mechanism 10 which is cut perpendicularly to its longitudinal axis at a position of the latchingelement 12 is depicted. As shown inFig. 2 , according to embodiments thelatch element 12 comprises aprotrusion 12a from which in a latched state a movablemechanical contact element 40 of a switch is held back. Thereby, an opening movement of themechanical contact element 40 is hindered. In particular, the movablemechanical contact element 40 is biased such that themechanical contact element 40 exerts a torque on thelatch element 12. In an unlatched state when thelatch element 12 is able to perform a movement themechanical contact element 40 of the switch is released by thelatch element 12 thereby enabling an opening movement of an electrical contact element of a switch which is coupled to themechanical contact element 40. Thereby, the torque caused by themechanical contact element 40 translates into a turning movement of thelatch element 12, after which theprotrusion 12a no longer holds back themechanical contact element 40. - In embodiments, prior to the turning movement of the
latch element 12, thelatch element 12 performs a sliding movement, in particular in cases in which aguidance element 17 is provided, which will be described in the following in more detail. Although not explicitly shown inFig. 2 due the cut view, an embodiment as illustrated inFig. 2 typically comprises a clamp element having a first end portion 131 (not shown). It is to be understood that generally the embodiments as illustrated inFig.2 may comprise the same elements as described with respect to the embodiment as shown inFig. 1 . - As exemplarily shown in
Fig. 2 , embodiments of latchingmechanism 10 described herein may comprise aguidance element 17 for guiding the movement of thelatch element 12, at least in the beginning of the movement of thelatch element 12 directly after unlatching. Further, theguidance element 17 can be arranged and configured such that thelatch element 12 presses against theguidance element 17 for at least partially compensating a force originating from the torque acting on thelatch element 12 by themechanical contact element 40. As exemplarily shown inFig. 2 , theguidance element 17 can engage with thelatch element 12. For example, the engagement is realized by a recess in thelatch element 12 into which theguidance element 17 engages. - According to embodiments, as exemplarily shown in
Fig. 2 , the engagement is configured such that in an unlatched state of the latching mechanism 10 a sliding movement of thelatch plate 12 along an essentially plane surface of theguidance element 17 is possible. Hence, when the clamping force is released and thelatching mechanism 10 changes from the latched state in an unlatched state, thelatch element 12 slides along a contact surface between theguidance element 17 and thelatch element 12 before thelatch plate 12 performs a rotational movement for completely releasing themechanical contact element 40. This movement is, according to an example, driven by a biasing force acting on themechanical contact element 40, e.g. due to a biasing element such as a spring acting on themechanical contact element 40. After having been released, i.e. no longer being held back by thelatch element 12, themechanical contact element 40 is free to perform a movement (the movement for which it is biased) for actuating the switch. Typically, themechanical contact element 40 is operationally coupled to an electrical contact element of the switch such that the switch is actuated (opened or closed) by the movement of themechanical contact element 40. According to a particular example, themechanical contact element 40 is connected to the movable electrical contact element of the switch rigidly or via a motion-transmitting element, such as a gear. - As shown in
Fig. 2 , according to embodiments of the latching mechanism 10 abearing 35, preferably a needle bearing, is provided between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13. Thereby, the sliding of thelatch plate 12 for releasing themechanical contact element 40 is sustained such that wear of thelatch element 12 and/orfirst clamp element 13 can substantially be avoided. - According to embodiments of the
latching mechanism 10, as exemplarily shown inFig. 2 , typically thelatching mechanism 10 comprises astop element 18. Typically, thelatch mechanism 10 is configured such that from the instant at which thelatch plate 12 looses contact with theguidance element 17, thelatch element 12 and /or thefirst clamp element 13 and/ or thesecond clamp element 16 and/ or the at least onelinear actuator 11 start to rotate due to the loss of resistance hindering a rotational movement of said elements. Therefore, thestop element 18 is arranged and configured to stop said rotational movements, after sufficient rotation. After said rotational movement has been stopped, thelatch plate 12 and /or thefirst clamp element 13 and/ or thesecond clamp element 16 and/ or the at least onelinear actuator 11 are turned back to their initial position. This initial position can be latched again by simply actuating thelinear actuator 11, such that the at least onelinear actuator 11 presses thelatch element 12 against thefirst clamp element 12 to thereby re-establish a frictional locking between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13. - According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a switch (not shown) comprising a
latching mechanism 10 described herein is provided. Further, according to embodiments the switch comprises a movablemechanical contact element 40. As explained in more detail above with respect toFig. 2 , in the latched state themechanical contact element 40 is held back by thelatch element 12 thereby hindering a movement of themechanical contact element 40, and in the unlatched state themechanical contact element 40 is released by thelatch element 12 thereby enabling the movement of themechanical contact element 40 due to which the switch is opened (or closed) as described in connection withFig. 2 . - In
Fig. 3 and Fig. 4 embodiments of thelatching mechanism 10 are shown in a cut view similar toFig. 2 , wherein thelatch element 12 is arranged having a fixedpivot axis 19 around which thelatch element 12 can perform a rotational movement into an unlatched state. - The arrow F in
Fig. 3 and 4 indicates the force acting on thelatch element 12 due to a biasedmechanical contact element 40, as explained in more detail with respect to the embodiment shown inFig. 2 . Generally, the embodiments of the latching mechanism shown inFig. 3 and Fig. 4 essentially differ from the embodiment as shown inFig. 2 in the particular shape of thelatch element 12. In detail, in dependence of the particular shape of thelatch element 12 in the region where themechanical contact element 40 presses against thelatch element 12 a latching force degradation can be adjusted depending on the contact angle between the force direction and the orientation of the contact surface between themechanical contact element 40 and thelatch element 12. Thereby, alatching mechanism 10 is provided with which a certain force degradation can be achieved. Consequently, thelinear actuators 11 used in embodiments comprising alatch element 12 with which force degradation is achievable can be configured smaller, or the latching force can be correspondingly higher. Otherwise, description ofFig.2 applies also toFigs. 3 and 4 . - According to embodiments of the
latching mechanism 10 described herein, at least twolinear actuators 11 are arranged in parallel, as exemplarily shown inFigs. 5 and 6 . Essentially, the configuration of an embodiment comprising two parallel arrangedlinear actuators 11 is substantially the same as for embodiments in which only onelinear actuator 11 is employed (seeFig. 1 ), with the difference that typically thelatch element 12 is configured differently. In particular, as illustrated inFigs. 5 and 6 , thelatch element 12 can comprise an elongated hole configured such that thelatch element 12 can only perform a linear movement in an unlatched state of thelatching mechanism 10. Typically, said linear movement of thelatch element 12 in an unlatched state is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the at least twolinear actuators 11. It is to be understood that thelatch element 12 as shown inFigs. 5 and 6 may also comprise a protrusion (not shown) from which in a latched state a movablemechanical contact element 40 of a switch is held back, as explained in more detail with respect to the embodiments as illustrated inFigs. 2 to 4 . - By providing a
latching mechanism 10 having at least two linear actuators 11 a clamping force of thelatching mechanism 10 can be increased. For example, alatching mechanism 10 having twoactuators 11 typically has the capability of generating a clamping force which is twice the amount of the clamping force which can be generated by alatching mechanism 10 having only onelinear actuator 11. - According to a further aspect of the present disclosure, a method of unlatching a
latching mechanism 10 as exemplarily shown inFig. 7 is provided. Typically, the method of unlatching thelatching mechanism 10 comprises releasing 201 a frictional locking between alatch element 12 and afirst clamp element 13 by actuating at least onelinear actuator 11 such that thelatch element 12 is able to perform a movement for activating 202 a switch. - According to embodiments of a method of unlatching a
latching mechanism 10, alatching mechanism 10 as described herein is employed for the method of unlatching thelatching mechanism 10. According to embodiments of the method of unlatching alatching mechanism 10 actuating the at least onelinear actuator 11 includes a contraction of the at least onelinear actuator 11 along itslongitudinal axis 20. According to embodiments of the method of unlatching alatching mechanism 10 releasing the frictional locking between thelatch element 12 and thefirst clamp element 13 occurs within 0.05 ms to 5 ms.
Claims (15)
- A latching mechanism (10) for activating a switch, wherein the latching mechanism (10) comprises:a latch element (12),at least one linear actuator (11), anda first clamp element (13),wherein the latching mechanism (10) is configured to change between a latched state and an unlatched state,characterized in that;
in the latched state the at least one linear actuator (11) is extended along a longitudinal axis (20) and presses the latch element (12) against the first clamp element (13) to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13), and
in that;
in the unlatched state the at least one linear actuator (11) is contracted along the longitudinal axis (20) thereby releasing the frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13) to thereby allow a movement of the latch element (12) for activating the switch. - The latching mechanism (10) according to claim 1, wherein the at least one linear actuator (11) is at least one of a piezo-actuator, a magnetostrictive actuator and a hydraulic actuator.
- The latching mechanism (10) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the at least one linear actuator (11) is configured for contracting by 1 to 100 µm along the longitudinal axis (20) of the at least one linear actuator (11) when changing from the latched state to the unlatched state.
- The latching mechanism (10) according to any of claims 1 to 3, wherein the latching mechanism is configured for releasing the frictional locking within 0.1 to 5 ms when changing from the latched state to the unlatched state.
- The latching mechanism (10) according to any of claims 1 to 4, wherein in the latched state the frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13) is established by the at least one linear actuator (11) pressing against a substantially flat first surface (121) of the latch element (12) thereby pressing a substantially flat second surface (122) of the latch element (12) against the first clamp element (13), wherein the first surface (121) and the second surface (122) of the latch element (12) are substantially parallel to each other and substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis (20) and are arranged on opposing sides of the latch element (12).
- The latching mechanism (10) according to claim 5, wherein a second clamp element (16) is arranged between the at least one linear actuator (11) and the latch element (12), such that in the latched state the at least one linear actuator (11) presses the second clamp element (16) onto the first surface (121) of the latch element (12) to thereby establish a frictional locking between the first surface (121) of the latch element (12) and the second clamp element (16), and wherein the at least one linear actuator (11) further presses the first clamp element (13) onto the second surface (122) of the latch element (12) to thereby establish a frictional locking between a substantially flat surface of the first clamp element (13) and the second surface (122) of the latch element (12).
- The latching mechanism (10) according to claim 6, wherein an outer circumference of the first end portion (131) of the clamping element (13) and an outer circumference of the second clamp element (16) are supported by bearings (30).
- The latching mechanism (10) according to any of claims 1 to 7, wherein the first clamp element (13) comprises a first end portion (131) and a second end portion (132) which are rigidly connected to each other by a connecting portion (133), wherein the at least one linear actuator (11) and the latch element (12) are arranged axially between the first end portion (131) and the second end portion (132), so that in the latched state the at least one linear actuator (11) and the latch element (12) are clamped between the first end portion (131) and the second end portion (132).
- The latching mechanism (10) according to claim 8, wherein the connecting portion (133) of the first clamp element (13) extends through a hole in the latch element (12) and through an axial hole of the at least one linear actuator (11).
- The latching mechanism (10) according to any of claims 8 to 9, wherein the second end portion (132) of the first clamp element (13) comprises an adjusting element (14) for adjusting an axial length between the first end portion (131) and the second end portion (132).
- A switch comprising a latching mechanism (10) according to any of claims 1 to 10 and a movable mechanical contact element (40), wherein in the latched state the mechanical contact element (40) is held back by the latch element (12) thereby hindering a movement of the mechanical contact element (40), and wherein in the unlatched state the mechanical contact element (40) is released by the latch element (12) thereby enabling a movement of the mechanical contact element (40) causing the switch to open.
- A method of unlatching a latching mechanism, wherein the method comprises releasing (201) a frictional locking between a latch element (12) and a first clamp element (13) by actuating at least one linear actuator (11) such that the latch element (12) is able to perform a movement for activating (202) a switch,
wherein in the latched state the at least one linear actuator (11) is extended along a longitudinal axis (20) and presses the latch element (12) against the first clamp element (13) to thereby establish a frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13), and
wherein in the unlatched state the at least one linear actuator (11) is contracted along the longitudinal axis (20) thereby releasing the frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13) to thereby allow a movement of the latch element (12) for activating the switch. - The method of unlatching a latching mechanism according to claim 12 using a latching mechanism according to any of claims 1 to 10.
- The method of unlatching a latching mechanism according to claim 13, wherein actuating the at least one linear actuator (11) includes a contraction of the at least one linear actuator (11) along the longitudinal axis (20) of the at least one linear actuator (11).
- The method of unlatching a latching mechanism according to any of the claim 12 to 14, wherein releasing the frictional locking between the latch element (12) and the first clamp element (13) occurs within 0.05 ms to 5 ms.
Priority Applications (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP13168202.3A EP2804197B1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2013-05-17 | Latching mechanism for activating a switch |
CN201410209925.7A CN104167312B (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2014-05-19 | For the blocking mechanism of starting switch |
Applications Claiming Priority (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
EP13168202.3A EP2804197B1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2013-05-17 | Latching mechanism for activating a switch |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
EP2804197A1 EP2804197A1 (en) | 2014-11-19 |
EP2804197B1 true EP2804197B1 (en) | 2015-12-30 |
Family
ID=48430575
Family Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
EP13168202.3A Active EP2804197B1 (en) | 2013-05-17 | 2013-05-17 | Latching mechanism for activating a switch |
Country Status (2)
Country | Link |
---|---|
EP (1) | EP2804197B1 (en) |
CN (1) | CN104167312B (en) |
Families Citing this family (1)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
CN105416443B (en) * | 2015-10-29 | 2018-05-29 | 深圳市家信信息科技开发有限公司 | The antitheft flower-drum lock of riding cycle |
Family Cites Families (6)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
DE19843245A1 (en) * | 1997-09-16 | 1999-08-12 | Siemens Ag | Arrangement for obtaining auxiliary energy for a trigger system and use thereof |
FR2829871A1 (en) * | 2001-09-18 | 2003-03-21 | Alstom | High voltage circuit breaker mechanical spring command mechanism having spring shaft moving first/second position with clutch released during spring operation. |
US7459650B2 (en) * | 2007-04-19 | 2008-12-02 | Eaton Corporation | Electrical switching apparatus, and latch assembly and latch engagement control mechanism therefor |
FR2923075B1 (en) * | 2007-10-29 | 2009-12-25 | Areva T & D Ag | ACTUATOR OF A SWITCH COMPRISING A FREEWHEEL COUPLING DEVICE |
US8058580B2 (en) * | 2009-09-16 | 2011-11-15 | Eaton Corporation | Electrical switching apparatus and linking assembly therefor |
US8217291B2 (en) * | 2010-03-04 | 2012-07-10 | Eaton Corporation | Electrical switching apparatus and status indicating assembly therefor |
-
2013
- 2013-05-17 EP EP13168202.3A patent/EP2804197B1/en active Active
-
2014
- 2014-05-19 CN CN201410209925.7A patent/CN104167312B/en active Active
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
CN104167312B (en) | 2017-06-23 |
EP2804197A1 (en) | 2014-11-19 |
CN104167312A (en) | 2014-11-26 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US5780957A (en) | Moving linear piezoelectric motor for vehicle applications | |
US20080230330A1 (en) | Braking device having a wedge mechanism | |
US6040643A (en) | Linear actuator | |
EP1952040B1 (en) | Apparatus for producing a frictional and/or form-fitting connection between two components which are arranged such that they can be moved linearly or rotated relative to one another | |
ITUB20159136A1 (en) | DEVICE FOR CONNECTING AND RELEASING COMMANDED SPACE SATELLITES INSTALLED ON LAUNCHERS AND LOADS INSTALLED ON SPACE SATELLITES | |
US12006956B2 (en) | Actuator device and stopping and unlocking method | |
RU2449101C2 (en) | Door lock | |
EP2868923B1 (en) | Variable negative stiffness actuation | |
US4202430A (en) | Brake actuating mechanisms | |
US9425014B2 (en) | Circuit interruption device employing shape memory alloy element | |
US5389845A (en) | Linear actuator apparatus and method | |
WO2018210012A1 (en) | Anti-symmetric arrangement type single piezoelectric stack driven bidirectional rotary inertial actuator and method | |
WO2015098142A1 (en) | Bypass switch | |
EP2804197B1 (en) | Latching mechanism for activating a switch | |
EP2590315A1 (en) | Drive device | |
CN102414478B (en) | Torque limiter in particular for actuator of nacelle of aircraft turbojet engine | |
US5013945A (en) | Linearly operating motor | |
US9062747B2 (en) | Lead screw locking mechanism | |
CN101688405A (en) | Door lock | |
CN110936004B (en) | Resistance welding device | |
US5530414A (en) | Switching accessory for use with motor starters | |
US20140333180A1 (en) | Piezoelectric actuation device | |
WO2017055019A1 (en) | Assembly and method for triggering a switch movement of a circuit breaker | |
US2843691A (en) | Mechanism for operating a load limit device in response to excessive load on a driving member | |
CN210867539U (en) | Giant magnetostrictive motor |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 20130517 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
AX | Request for extension of the european patent |
Extension state: BA ME |
|
R17P | Request for examination filed (corrected) |
Effective date: 20150310 |
|
RBV | Designated contracting states (corrected) |
Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
GRAP | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1 |
|
RIC1 | Information provided on ipc code assigned before grant |
Ipc: H01H 71/50 20060101AFI20150630BHEP Ipc: H01H 71/12 20060101ALI20150630BHEP |
|
INTG | Intention to grant announced |
Effective date: 20150721 |
|
GRAS | Grant fee paid |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3 |
|
GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): AL AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MK MT NL NO PL PT RO RS SE SI SK SM TR |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: EP |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: REF Ref document number: 767817 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20160115 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: FG4D |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R096 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: LT Ref legal event code: MG4D |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: NO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160330 Ref country code: HR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: NL Ref legal event code: MP Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: AT Ref legal event code: MK05 Ref document number: 767817 Country of ref document: AT Kind code of ref document: T Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 4 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160331 Ref country code: FI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: LV Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: RS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: SE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: NL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CZ Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: IT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY SWITZERLAND AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB TECHNOLOGY AG, ZUERICH, CH Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: ABB POWER GRIDS SWITZERLAND AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB TECHNOLOGY AG, ZUERICH, CH Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: ABB SCHWEIZ AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB TECHNOLOGY AG, ZUERICH, CH |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: EE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: IS Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160430 Ref country code: SM Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: RO Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: AT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: SK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: PL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: PT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160502 Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160531 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R097 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
26N | No opposition filed |
Effective date: 20161003 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: LU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20160517 Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: CH Ref legal event code: PL |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CH Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160531 Ref country code: LI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160531 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: IE Ref legal event code: MM4A |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: SI Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 5 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: IE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160517 |
|
GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20170517 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20170517 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: PLFP Year of fee payment: 6 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: HU Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT; INVALID AB INITIO Effective date: 20130517 Ref country code: ES Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: CY Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: MK Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: MT Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20160531 Ref country code: MC Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BG Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: TP Owner name: ABB SCHWEIZ AG, CH Effective date: 20180912 |
|
PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: TR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 Ref country code: AL Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT Effective date: 20151230 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY SWITZERLAND AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB SCHWEIZ AG, BADEN, CH Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY LTD, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB SCHWEIZ AG, BADEN, CH Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: ABB POWER GRIDS SWITZERLAND AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB SCHWEIZ AG, BADEN, CH |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY SWITZERLAND AG, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB POWER GRIDS SWITZERLAND AG, BADEN, CH Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY LTD, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: ABB POWER GRIDS SWITZERLAND AG, BADEN, CH |
|
P01 | Opt-out of the competence of the unified patent court (upc) registered |
Effective date: 20230527 |
|
REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R082 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Representative=s name: DENNEMEYER & ASSOCIATES S.A., DE Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R081 Ref document number: 602013004304 Country of ref document: DE Owner name: HITACHI ENERGY LTD, CH Free format text: FORMER OWNER: HITACHI ENERGY SWITZERLAND AG, BADEN, CH |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20240521 Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20240528 Year of fee payment: 12 |