Patent ID: 7760055
Filing Date: 2010-07-20
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A method for safe operation of a switching device including at least two main contacts, each being connectable and disconnectable and each including contact pieces and a moving contact link, the switching device further including at least one control magnet which has a moving armature, the armature acting on the contact link during respective connection and disconnection such that the corresponding main contact is respectively closed and opened, the method comprising: a) maintaining a release device and a force element in a same position relative to the main contacts, corresponding to a first state, when the main contacts are closed during connection and when the main contacts are open during disconnection by contacting a blocking tooth on the release device with a restraint web on the force element; and b) changing the release device and the force element to a different position relative to the main contacts, corresponding to a second state, for breaking open the main contacts if at least one of the main contacts is welded after disconnection by releasing the contact tooth from the restraint web.