Patent ID: 8248194
Filing Date: 2012-08-21
Classification: H01H

Abstract:
1. A disconnect switch, comprising: a case; a movable contact disposed within the case, the movable contact adapted to rotate from a first closed position to a second open position; a stationary contact disposed within the case, the movable contact being in physical contact with the stationary contact in the first position; and a plurality of magnets, including a first, second and third magnet, disposed within the case, the magnets disposed at predefined locations and orientations about an axis of a path of rotation of the movable contact, whereby upon the rotation of the movable contact from the first position to the second open position, a current arc created by the movable contact is extinguished, wherein the first magnet is disposed on a first side of the moveable contact, substantially parallel to the axis of the path of rotation of the moveable contact, the north pole of the first magnet facing the first movable contact, wherein the second magnet is disposed proximate an end of the stationary contact, and substantially parallel to the axis of the path of rotation of the moveable contact, the second magnet oriented opposite in polarity to the first magnet, and wherein the third magnet is disposed on a second side of the moveable contact opposite the first side, at a forty-five degree angle with respect to the axis of the path of rotation the movable contact, the south pole of the third magnet facing a direction substantially towards the north pole of the first magnet, and the north pole of the third magnet facing a direction substantially away from the north pole of the first magnet.