ARC EXTINGUISHING ASSEMBLY

The present disclosure relates to an arc extinguishing assembly which, when an arc is generated, has a structure that can push the generated arc in a direction farther away from a stationary contact point by forming a transient pressure difference between arc guides.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to an arc extinguishing assembly, and more specifically to an arc extinguishing assembly having an arc guide.

BACKGROUND

A circuit breaker is a device that blocks the flow of current when abnormal current such as electrical leakage, short circuit or excessive current occurs in the circuit. Through this, it is possible to prevent an accident that may occur in a circuit or an electronic device connected to the circuit. The circuit breaker is energably installed at a specific position in the circuit such that the current of the circuit passes through the circuit breaker.

A conventional circuit breaker has, as is well known, a stationary contact point and a movable contact point formed so as to be proximate or spaced apart from the stationary contact point.

When a normal current flows, the movable contact point is in contact with the stationary contact point. When the movable contact point and the stationary contact point are in contact and energized with each other, the circuit is connected so as to be energized.

When an abnormal current is generated, the movable contact point is spaced apart from the stationary contact point. When the movable contact point and the stationary contact point are spaced apart, the flow of current in the circuit is cut off.

Immediately after the moving contact point is separated from the stationary contact point, a part of the stationary contact point or the movable contact point is melted, and vaporized metal vapor is generated. The current flowing through the movable contact point and the stationary contact point is converted into an arc flowing through the vapor of the metal, and the arc is extended in an arcuate shape as the movable contact point moves away from the stationary contact point.

The arc is a flow of plasma composed of electrons and ions at high temperature and high pressure.

The generated arc is cooled after undergoing an extinguishing process in the arc extinguishing assembly, and discharged to the outside of the arc extinguishing assembly.

Hereinafter, the arc extinguishing process in a conventional circuit breaker will be described with reference toFIGS.1to2.

Referring toFIG.1, an arc extinguishing assembly20for extinguishing the generated arc is illustrated.

The arc extinguishing assembly20includes a plurality of grids230that are spaced apart from each other and stacked in a direction away from a stationary contact point (not illustrated), and an exhaust212for discharging the extinguished arc (A) is formed on the upper side of the plurality of grids230.

Referring toFIG.2, the arc (A) is extended and extinguished by a plurality of grids230and arc runners240.

When the movable contact point (not illustrated) on the lower side of the arc extinguishing assembly20is separated from the stationary contact point (not illustrated), the arc (A) is generated as described above. The arc (A) is extended along the movable contact point.

Specifically, metal gas is generated between the movable contact point and the stationary contact point, and the pressure of the portion of the stationary contact point is momentarily increased, and the arc is extended toward the grid230and the arc runner240by the pressure difference.

The extended arc (A) reaches a plurality of grids230and runners240, and the arc (A) is extended and cooled upward while flowing along the grids230and runners240.

However, referring toFIG.1, the intervals between the arc guides respectively located on both sides of a path in which the arc is extended are excessively spaced apart.

Therefore, the metal gas which is generated when the stationary contact point is separated from the movable contact point is dispersed, and problems may occur in that the force pushing the arc (A) toward the grid230and the arc runner240is insufficiently formed.

In addition, the instantaneous pressure rise depends on the voltage of the circuit. That is, when the pressure in the circuit is lowered, the instantaneous amount of increase in the pressure may be lowered. When a sufficient pressure difference is not generated by the lowered voltage, the above-described problems may occur more frequently. In this case, there may be a problem in that arc extinguishing is not sufficiently performed, causing damage to other components of the circuit breaker.

A related art document (Chinese Patent Publication No. 1801418) discloses an arc extinguishing device for extinguishing an arc generated when the circuit is cut off. Specifically, the arc extinguishing device is provided with a grid and an arc runner, and the generated arc is extinguished while extending along the grid and the arc runner.

However, the arc extinguishing device may have a problem in that the arc generating space is excessively wide and the force pushing the arc toward the grid and the arc runner is insufficiently formed.

SUMMARY

An object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure capable of solving the above-described problems.

First, an object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure in which the generated arc can be extended to a grid and a runner.

In addition, another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure capable of pushing the generated arc toward a runner.

In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure capable of pushing the generated arc toward a grid.

In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure capable of pushing the generated arc toward a runner and a grid.

In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure capable of pushing the generated arc toward a runner and a grid without significantly changing the structure.

In addition, still another object of the present disclosure is to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having a structure in which the generated arc can be extended to a grid and a runner even when the voltage of the circuit is lowered.

The present disclosure provides an arc extinguishing assembly having a configuration that can solve the above problems.

The arc extinguishing assembly according to the present disclosure includes a pair of arc guides having inclined surfaces facing each other.

The inclined surfaces facing each other are formed to be inclined so as to move away from each other as the distance from an arc generation point increases.

The distance between the inclined surfaces facing each other increases as the distance from an arc generation point increases.

The size of the space between the inclined surfaces facing each other increases as the distance from an arc generation point increases.

Accordingly, when an arc is generated, a pressure difference instantaneously occurs in the space between the inclined surfaces facing each other.

The pressure of the part relatively close to the arc generation point is temporarily increased compared to the part relatively farther away.

The arm extinguishing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a frame having side portions which are spaced apart by a predetermined distance and facing each other and an exhaust connecting between the side portions from one side of the side portion; a grid which is inserted between the side portions, coupled to the frame, formed in a plate shape, provided in plurality and stacked to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in one direction; and an arc guide which is located on one side of the plurality of grids and extending in the one direction, and respectively coupled to the side portion.

In addition, each of the arc guides has wings protruding toward each other, and the distance between the wings increases toward the one direction.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is inclined toward an adjacent side portion toward the one direction.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and an imaginary extension line extending along an inclination direction of each of the inclined surfaces forms an acute angle with an imaginary center line passing the center between the inclined surfaces in the one direction, respectively.

In addition, the distance between the wings increases toward the exhaust.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is inclined toward an adjacent side portion toward the one direction and the exhaust.

In addition, the arc guide is spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the one direction from a stationary contact point where an arc is generated.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly further includes a runner which is inserted between the side portions and coupled to the frame, and located to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the other side opposite to the one side of the plurality of grids, and has one side bent toward the stationary contact point.

In addition, the length of the wing in the one direction is shorter than the distance between the stationary contact point and the bent side of the runner.

In addition, arms are respectively formed on both sides of the grid coupled to the side portion, and the arms are respectively inserted into the arc guide.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly according to another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a frame having side portions spaced apart by a predetermined distance and facing each other and an exhaust connecting between the side portions from one side of the side portion; a grid which is inserted between the side portions, coupled to the frame, formed in a plate shape, provided in plurality and stacked to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in one direction; and an arc guide which is located on one side of the plurality of grids and extending in the one direction, and respectively coupled to the side portion.

In addition, each of the arc guides has wings protruding toward each other, and the distance between the wings increases toward the exhaust.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and an imaginary extension line extending along an inclination direction of each of the inclined surface forms an acute angle with an imaginary center line passing the center between the inclined surfaces toward the exhaust, respectively.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is inclined toward an adjacent side portion toward the exhaust.

In addition, the distance between the wings increases toward the one direction.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is inclined toward an adjacent side portion toward the one direction and the exhaust.

In addition, the arc guide is spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the one direction from a stationary contact point where an arc is generated.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly further includes a runner which is inserted between the side portions and coupled to the frame, and located to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the other side opposite to the one side of the plurality of grids, and has one side bent toward the stationary contact point.

In addition, the length of the wing in the one direction is shorter than the distance between the stationary contact point and the bent side of the runner.

In addition, arms are respectively formed on both sides of the grid coupled to the side portion, and the arms are respectively inserted into the arc guide.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly according to still another exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure includes a frame having side portions spaced apart by a predetermined distance and facing each other and an exhaust connecting between the side portions from one side of the side portion; a grid which is inserted between the side portions, coupled to the frame, formed in a plate shape, provided in plurality and stacked to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in one direction; and an arc guide which is located on one side of the plurality of grids and extending in the one direction, and respectively coupled to the side portion.

In addition, each of the arc guides has wings protruding toward each other, and the distance between the wings increases toward the one direction and the exhaust.

In addition, the wing is respectively formed with inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is inclined toward an adjacent side portion toward the one direction and the exhaust.

In addition, the arc guide is spaced apart by a predetermined distance in the one direction from a stationary contact point where an arc is generated.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly further includes a runner which is inserted between the side portions and coupled to the frame, and located to be spaced apart by a predetermined distance from the other side opposite to the one side of the plurality of grids, and has one side bent toward the stationary contact point, and the length of the wing in the one direction is shorter than the distance between the stationary contact point and the bent side of the runner.

In addition, the distance between the two most adjacent points of the wing is formed to be ½ or less of the distance between the side portions.

According to the present disclosure, the following effects are derived.

First, the distance between wings increases as these are adjacent to an arc runner. Accordingly, a temporary pressure difference occurs when an arc is generated. As a result, the generated arc is pushed toward the side of an arc runner where the pressure is relatively low such that the extension speed of an arc in a direction towards the arc runner can be increased, and the arc extinguishing performance can be improved.

In addition, the distance between wings increases as these are adjacent to the exhaust. Accordingly, a temporary pressure difference is generated when an arc is generated. As a result, the generated arc is pushed to the side where the pressure is relatively low. That is, the generated arc is pushed toward a grid such that the extension speed of an arc in a direction toward the grid can be increased, and the arc extinguishing performance can be improved.

In addition, the distance between wings increases as these are adjacent to the arc runner and the exhaust. Accordingly, a temporary pressure difference occurs when an arc is generated. As a result, the generated arc is pushed to the side where the pressure is relatively low. That is, the generated arc is pushed toward the grid and arc runner such that the extension speed of an arc in a direction toward the grid and arc runner can be increased, and the arc extinguishing performance can be improved.

In addition, the arc extinguishing performance can be improved by changing the shape of the arc grid without significantly changing the structure of the arc extinguishing assembly.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Hereinafter, the arc extinguishing assembly according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

In the following description, the descriptions of some components may be omitted in order to clarify the characteristics of the present disclosure.

First, the terms used below are defined.

1. Definitions of Terms

The term ‘circuit breaker’ used below means a device that is connected to a circuit to detect a situation in which a leakage current or overcurrent flows or a short circuit occurs in the circuit, and blocks the flow of current in the circuit when such a situation occurs. In an exemplary embodiment, the circuit breaker may be provided as an air circuit breaker.

The term ‘normal current’ used below means a current in a state where the circuit breaker does not perform a blocking operation. Specifically, it means a current flowing within a preset current range value in the breaker, a current in a state where current leakage does not occur, or a current in a state where a short circuit does not occur.

The term ‘abnormal current’ used below means a current in a state where the circuit breaker performs a blocking operation. Specifically, it means a current exceeding a preset current range value in the breaker, a current in a state where current leakage occurs, or a current in a state where a short circuit occurs.

The term ‘arc’ used below means a plasma of electrons and ions generated when a movable contact point and a stationary contact point in a state where current flows through contact with each other are spaced apart.

The terms ‘front side’, ‘rear side’, ‘left’, ‘right’, ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ used below may be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated inFIG.3.

2. Description of the Configuration of the Circuit Breaker According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

Hereinafter, the configuration of a circuit breaker according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.3and4.

Referring toFIGS.3and4, a circuit breaker10configured to block the flow of current when an abnormal current occurs is illustrated.

The circuit breaker10includes a circuit breaker body11having an upwardly open accommodation space11a(refer toFIG.4) therein. On the front side of the circuit breaker body11, a power side connection12aconnected to the side of a power supply and a load side connection12bconnected to the side of a load to be energized are formed.

Referring toFIG.4, a stationary contact13and a movable contact14configured to block or energize the power side connection12aand the load side connection12bare provided in the accommodation space11aof the circuit breaker body11.

The stationary contact point13is provided with a stationary contact point13a,and the movable contact point14is provided with a movable contact point14a.When a normal current flows in the circuit, the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14acome into contact with each other, and a current flows between the power side connection12aand the load side connection12b.

When an abnormal current flows in the circuit, the movable contact14is rotated by a predetermined angle in a direction away from the stationary contact13. Accordingly, the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14aare spaced apart from each other, and the flow of current between the power side connection part12aand the load side connection part12bis blocked.

Since the structure in which the movable contact14is rotated and spaced apart from the stationary contact13is a known technique, the description of the structure will be omitted.

When the movable contact point14aand the stationary contact point13aare spaced apart, an arc is generated between the movable contact point14aand the stationary contact point13a.In this case, the arc is a plasma of high-temperature electrons and ions, and if it is not extinguished quickly, damage to the components constituting the circuit breaker may occur. Accordingly, an arc extinguishing assembly100for extinguishing the arc is provided above the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14a.

The arc extinguishing assembly100is inserted into the open side of the accommodation space11aof the circuit breaker body11to cover the open portion of the accommodation space11a.

After the generated arc is extinguished in the arc extinguishing assembly100, it is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10through the exhaust112of the arc extinguishing assembly100. The arc is extended as the arc flows along a grid130and an arc runner140of the arc extinguishing assembly100. Accordingly, in order to extinguish the arc quickly, it is desirable to move the arc rapidly toward the grid130and/or arc runner140.

3. Description of the Arc Extinguishing Assembly According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

Hereinafter, the arc extinguishing assembly100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.5and6.

Referring toFIGS.5and6, the arc extinguishing assembly100is illustrated in a combined state and an exploded state.

The arc extinguishing assembly100is accommodated in the accommodation space11aof the circuit breaker10, and is located adjacent to the upper side of the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14a.The arc is generated from the lower side of the arc extinguishing assembly100, and after undergoing an extinguishing process in the arc extinguishing assembly100, the arc is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10through the exhaust112of the arc extinguishing assembly100. The arc extinguishing assembly100includes a frame110, a grid130, an arc runner140and an arc guide150.

The frame110includes an exhaust112and a pair of side portions111coupled to the exhaust portion112.

(1) Description of the Exhaust112

The exhaust112includes an exhaust housing1121, an insulation plate1123, a filter1125and an exhaust cover1127.

A pair of side portions111to be described below are respectively coupled to the left and right sides of the exhaust housing1121. In the central portion of the upper surface of the exhaust housing1121, an accommodation portion (not assigned) in which the insulation plate1123and the filter1125are accommodated is formed to be recessed, and a plurality of exhaust holes (not assigned) are formed to pass through the insulation plate1123.

An exhaust cover1127is coupled to an upper surface of the exhaust housing1121, and a plurality of gas outlets (not assigned) are formed through a central portion of the exhaust cover1127.

As described above, the exhaust hole, the insulation plate1123, the filter1125and the gas outlet are sequentially located from the lower side to the upper side in the exhaust112. For this reason, the metal gas introduced into the exhaust hole passes through the insulation plate1123and the filter1125and then is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10through the gas outlet. That is, the exhaust112functions as a passage through which the metal gas is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10.

In addition, the arc extinguishing assembly100is coupled to a circuit breaker body11through the exhaust112. The process in which the exhaust is coupled to the circuit breaker housing is as follows.

Fastening holes (not assigned) are respectively formed through the front side and the rear side of the exhaust cover1127. In a state where the exhaust cover1127covers the opening of the accommodation space11aof the circuit breaker10, a fastening member (not illustrated) passes through the fastening hole and is coupled to the circuit breaker body11. Accordingly, the arc extinguishing assembly100is coupled to the circuit breaker body11.

In addition, the exhaust112functions as a pressure increasing means inside the arc extinguishing assembly100. Specifically, since the exhaust112covers the open portion of the accommodation space11a,the pressure inside the arc extinguishing assembly100may momentarily increase when the metal gas is generated. Accordingly, a temporary pressure difference between the pressure inside the arc extinguishing assembly100and the outside of the circuit breaker10is generated, and the metal gas may be moved toward the exhaust hole of the exhaust112.

(2) Description of the Side Portion111

Next, the side portion111will be described.

The side portion111is provided in a pair and is formed in a plate shape.

The side portions111are located to face each other, and a grid130and an arc runner140to be described below are disposed between the side portions111and are coupled to the side portions111.

A plurality of grid fastening holes1115and arc runner fastening holes1117are formed through the central portion of the side portion111. A grid fastening protrusion135and an arc runner fastening protrusion141, which will be described below, are respectively inserted into the grid fastening hole1115and the arc runner fastening hole1117.

Herein, the grid fastening hole1115and the arc runner fastening hole1117are formed to have sizes corresponding to the grid fastening protrusion135and the arc runner fastening protrusion141or slightly smaller sizes. Accordingly, the grid fastening protrusion141and the arc runner fastening protrusion135are press-fitted into the grid fastening hole1115and the arc runner fastening hole1117, and the side portion111, the grid130and the arc runner140may be coupled.

In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the grid fastening hole1115and the arc runner fastening hole1117are formed in rectangular shapes, but these may vary depending on the shapes of the grid fastening protrusion135and the arc runner fastening protrusion141.

In addition, an arc guide150to be described below is coupled to each side portion111, respectively. An arc guide fastening hole1119for coupling with the arc guide150is formed through the lower side of the side portion111. The arc guide fastening hole1119may be formed in plurality.

The arc guide fastening member161passes through the arc guide150and is coupled to the arc guide fastening hole1119. The arc guide150is coupled to the side portion111by the fastening force of the arc guide fastening member161and the arc guide fastening hole1119.

In an exemplary embodiment, the arc guide fastening member161may be composed of a bolt and a nut. In addition, in an exemplary embodiment, the arc guide fastening member may be composed of a rivet.

At the upper side of the side portion111, an exhaust112, which will be described below, is coupled between the side portions111.

A snap fastening hole1111and a screw fastening hole1113for coupling with the exhaust112are formed to pass through the upper side of the side portion111.

In addition, a snap protrusion1121aand a screw coupling groove1121bfor coupling with the side portion111are formed in the exhaust housing1121provided in the exhaust112.

A pair of side portions111are slidably moved to the left and right side surfaces of the exhaust112in order to be coupled to the exhaust112. When the side portion111is moved, the snap protrusions1121aprotruding from the left and right sides of the exhaust housing1121are inserted into and coupled to the snap fastening holes1111.

Herein, the snap protrusion1121ais formed to be inclined in the insertion direction of the side portion111. Accordingly, insertion of the snap protrusion1121ainto the snap fastening hole1111becomes easy. Further, in a state where the snap protrusion1121ais inserted into the snap fastening hole1111, the side portion111is not arbitrarily moved to the lower side of the exhaust housing1121.

In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the snap fastening hole1111is formed in a rectangular shape, but this may vary depending on the shape of the snap protrusion1121a.

In addition, in a state where the side portion111is coupled to the exhaust housing1121, a fastening screw (not illustrated) passes through the screw fastening hole1113and is coupled to the screw fastening groove1121b.Accordingly, the exhaust112and the side portion111may be more firmly coupled.

(3) Description of the Grid130and the Arc Runner140

The grid130is formed in a plate shape, and a plurality of grids are stacked by being spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance in one direction away from the stationary contact point. Specifically, a plurality of grids130are stacked to be spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance from the front side to the rear side.

The grid130includes a grid body131and arms133extending downward from both sides of the grid body portion131, respectively. Specifically, the arm133extends downward from the left and right sides of the grid body131. The lower ends of the arm133are respectively inserted into the arm accommodating grooves151aof the arc guide150to be described below.

Since the lower end of the arm133is surrounded by the arm accommodating groove151a,the arc may be moved upward without being moved to the arm133and staying therein.

In addition, on both sides of the grid130, specifically, on the left and right sides, the grid fastening protrusions135are formed to protrude. The grid fastening protrusions135protruding from both sides are inserted into the grid fastening holes1115, whereby the grid130may be stationary between the pair of side surfaces.

The grid130may be formed of any material capable of applying electromagnetic attraction to the arc. In an exemplary embodiment, the grid130may be formed of an iron (Fe) material.

The arc is extended and moved between the plurality of grids130. Accordingly, the arc voltage is increased and the arc is cooled.

Next, the arc runner140will be described.

The arc runner140is formed in a plate shape, and is located to be spaced apart from the plurality of grids130by a predetermined distance to the rear side.

The arc extends to the lower end of the arc runner140and flows along the arc runner140. If the arc does not reach the arc runner140, the arc extinguishing performance may be reduced. In consideration of this point, it is preferable to shorten the distance between the arc generation position and the arc runner140.

To this end, the lower end of the arc runner140is bent toward the stationary contact point13a.The bent lower end is located below the grid130which is located on the rear side among the plurality of grids130. The distance between the lower end of the arc runner140and the stationary contact point13ais shortened by the bent structure of the arc runner140.

The arc runner140may be formed of any material capable of applying electromagnetic attraction to the arc. In an exemplary embodiment, the arc runner may be formed of an iron (Fe) material.

(4) Description of the Arc Guide150

Next, the arc guide150will be described.

The arc guide150is provided as a pair and is respectively coupled to the pair of side portions111from the lower side of the grid130.

The arc guide150is formed of an insulating material and extends along the stacking direction of the grid130. That is, the arc guide150extends in a direction away from the stationary contact point13a.

The arc guide150includes a wing151, an extension153and a fastening portion155.

The wing151is formed to extend from the lower side of the grid130located at the frontmost side to the rear side. The extension153is formed to extend from the wing151to the lower side of the grid located on the rearmost side. The fastening portion155is formed to extend downward from the wing151and the extension153.

The wing151and the extension153accommodate the arms133of the grid130to suppress a decrease in arc extinguishing efficiency.

Specifically, the arm receiving groove151aopened toward the upper side and the side portion111is formed in the wing151and the extension153along the stacking direction of the grid130. The opening which faces the side portion111is blocked due to coupling with the side portion111, and the lower end of the arm133is inserted into the upper opening of the arm receiving groove151a.

The arm accommodating groove151amay be formed by being divided into a plurality such that the arms133can be individually inserted, and may be integrally formed such that the plurality of arm133can be inserted.

In an exemplary embodiment, the arm accommodating groove151aformed in the wing151is formed by being divided into a plurality, and the arm accommodating groove formed in the extension153is integrally formed.

The lower end of the inserted arm133is surrounded by the arc guide150which is an insulating material, thereby preventing the generated arc from moving to the arm133and reducing the arc extinguishing efficiency.

The pair of wings151are formed to protrude toward each other to reduce the size of the space formed between the wing parts151. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the dispersion of metal gas generated in the stationary contact point when an abnormal current is generated. That is, the dispersion of metal gas generated adjacent to the front side and the lower side of the wing151may be suppressed.

In addition, the pair of wings151may be formed such that the distance therebetween increases from the front side to the rear side. Accordingly, the size of the space between the pair of wings151increases from the front side to the rear side.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of wings151respectively have inclined surfaces facing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces is formed to be inclined toward an adjacent side portion from the front side to the rear side.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of wings151have a rectangular cross-sectional shape, and the left and right lengths of the rectangular cross-section are decreased from the front side toward the rear side. As a result, the size of the space between the two inclined surfaces increases from the front side to the rear side, and when the metal gas is generated at the stationary contact point, a pressure difference between the front side and the rear side occurs.

In addition, the metal gas is pushed to the rear side by the pressure difference. Accordingly, the extension length and extension speed of the arc from the front side to the rear side may be increased. In this regard, it will be described in detail below.

The fastening portion functions to couple the arc guide150and the side portion.

Specifically, the fastening portion155extends from the lower side of the wing151and the extension153, and a fastening portion fastening hole155ais formed to pass through the fastening portion155at a position corresponding to the arc guide fastening hole1119.

When the fastening portion155and the side portion111are in contact with each other such that the arc guide fastening hole1119and the fastening portion fastening hole155aare aligned, the arc guide fastening member161passes through the fastening portion fastening hole155aand the arc guide fastening hole1119. Accordingly, the arc guide150may be coupled to the side portion111.

Herein, it is preferable that a portion of the arc guide fastening member161exposed toward the arc guide has insulation. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress the arc from moving through the arc guide fastening member161.

(5) Description of the Distance Between the Arc Guides150and the Inclined Surface of the Arc Guide150

Hereinafter, the distance between the arc guides150and the shape of the inclined surface151bof the arc guide150according to the present exemplary embodiment will be described in detail with reference toFIGS.7to9.

FIG.7is a front view and a rear view of the arc guide ofFIG.6.FIG.8is a plan view and a bottom view of the arc guide ofFIG.6.FIG.9is a cross-sectional view of the arc extinguishing assembly ofFIG.5.

The front end of the wing151is illustrated in (a) ofFIG.7, and the rear end of the wing151is illustrated in (b) ofFIG.7.

The stationary contact point13ais located below the front end of the wing151. When an abnormal current is sensed and the movable contact point14ais separated from the stationary contact point13a,metal gas is instantaneously generated, and an arc flows through the generated metal gas.

When the metal gas is generated, the pressure of a portion where the metal gas is generated is momentarily increased, and as a result, the metal gas is raised toward the exhaust112of the arc extinguishing assembly100by a pressure difference. Accordingly, the arc flowing through the metal gas is raised and extended in an arcuate shape.

Herein, the arc passes through the space between the arc guides150and moves to the grid130and the arc runner140, and undergoes an extinguishing process in the grid130and the arc runner140and is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10.

Meanwhile, as described above, the arc is a flow of high-temperature and high-pressure electrons and is preferably discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker10within a short period of time. For this, it is preferable that the generated arc is rapidly extended from the stationary contact point13ato the arc runner140located farthest away. In addition, it is preferable that the generated arc rapidly extends from the stationary contact point13atoward the exhaust112.

Since each wing151of a pair of arc guides150according to the present exemplary embodiment protrudes toward each other, the size of the space between the wings151is reduced. Accordingly, the metal gas generated at the stationary contact point13amay be suppressed from being dispersed between the wings151. As a result, the arc may be suppressed from being dispersed between the wings151, and the generated arc may be rapidly extended toward the grid130in the space between the wings151.

In addition, the pair of wings151respectively have inclined surfaces151bfacing each other. The specific shape of the inclined surfaces151bis as follows.

That is, the front end and the rear end of the pair of wings151are respectively connected by inclined surfaces151b,and the distance (D1) between the front ends of the pair of wing parts151is formed to be smaller than the distance (D2) between the rear ends. Accordingly, the distance between the inclined surfaces151bof the pair of wings151increases from the front side toward the rear side.

That is, the size of the space between the inclined surfaces151bof the pair of wing parts151increases from the front side to the rear side. In other words, the size of the space between the inclined surfaces151bof the pair of wings151increases as the distance from the stationary contact point13ain the stacking direction of the grid130increases. As a result, a temporary pressure difference occurs between the space between the front ends of the wing unit151and the space between the rear ends when the arc is generated.

The metal gas is pushed from between the front ends of the wing151having a relatively high pressure to between the rear ends having a relatively low pressure. That is, the arc is pushed from between the front ends to between the rear ends of the wing151by the pressure difference.

The arc may be rapidly extended toward the arc runner140by the structure of the wings151as described above.

Specifically, the metal gas is pushed from between the front ends of the wing151to between the rear ends. In other words, the metal gas is pushed in a direction away from the stationary contact point along the stacking direction of the grid. That is, the metal gas is pushed in a direction toward the arc runner. Accordingly, the arc may be rapidly extended to the arc runner located on the rear side of the wing151. As a result, the extension distance of the arc in the stacking direction of the grid130may be increased.

In other words, since the arc is pushed toward the arc runner140by a temporary pressure difference in the space between the wings151, the arc may be rapidly extended to the arc runner140. Referring toFIG.9, the direction in which the arc is pushed by the temporary pressure difference in the arc guide150is illustrated.

When the voltage of the circuit is lowered, an instantaneous pressure increase occurs when the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14aare spaced apart may be relatively reduced. Accordingly, the arc does not reach the arc runner140such that the arc extinguishing performance may be reduced.

However, when the arc guide150having the above-described structure is used, a decrease in the amount of pressure increase due to a decrease in the voltage of the circuit may be compensated. Accordingly, even when the voltage of the circuit is lowered, the arc may smoothly extend to the arc runner140.

Hereinafter, the inclined surfaces151bof the arc guide150according to the present exemplary embodiment will be described in detail.

The upper side surface of the wing151is illustrated in (a) ofFIG.8, and the lower side surface of the wing151is illustrated in (b) ofFIG.8(b).

The inclined surfaces151bof the wing151are inclined toward the adjacent side portion111as they move away from the stationary contact point13aalong the stacking direction of the grid130. In other words, the inclined surfaces151bof the wing151are inclined toward the adjacent side portion111from the front to the rear.

Referring toFIG.8, an imaginary extension line (L1) extending along the inclination direction of each of the inclined surfaces151bis illustrated, and a virtual center line (C1) that passes along the stacking direction of the grid130through the center between the two inclined surfaces151bis illustrated. Herein, each extension line (L1) forms an acute angle with the center line (C1).

Due to the structure of the inclined surfaces151bdescribed above, the distance between the inclined surfaces151bof the pair of wing parts151increases from the front side to the rear side. That is, the size of the space between the inclined surfaces151bof the pair of wing parts151increases from the front side to the rear side.

As a result, when an arc is generated, a pressure difference occurs between the space between the front ends of the wing151and the space between the rear ends. As a result, when an arc is generated, the pressure in the space between the wings151is decreased from the front side to the rear side. In addition, when an arc is generated, the fluid between the wings151flows from the front side having a relatively high pressure to the rear side having a relatively low pressure.

That is, the metal gas is pushed from between the front ends to between the rear ends of the wing151by the pressure difference. That is, the arc is pushed from between the front ends to between the rear ends of the wing151by the pressure difference.

Since the description of the effect by this structure is described above, it will be replaced therewith.

Since the above-described inclined structure of the wing151is a structure for pushing the arc to the lower end of the arc runner140, the length of the wing151in the front-rear direction is preferably formed to be smaller than the distance between the stationary contact point13aand the lower end of the arc runner140.

In an exemplary embodiment, the lower end of the arc runner140is located to be spaced apart from the rear end of the wing151by a predetermined distance.

When an arc is generated, in order to prevent excessive dispersion of the metal gas, the stationary contact point13aand the most adjacent portion among the portions of the pair of wings151may be spaced apart by a predetermined distance.

In an exemplary embodiment, when an abnormal current is generated, the distance between the stationary contact point13aand the most adjacent portion among the portions of the pair of wings151may be formed to be ½ or less of the distance between the pair of side portions111.

In an exemplary embodiment, the distance between the most adjacent portions of the pair of wings151may be formed to be ½ or less of the distance between the pair of side portions111.

However, when the distance between the stationary contact point13aand the most adjacent portion of the pair of wings151is excessively adjacent, problems may occur in that it is interfered with the movable contact14.

In consideration of this point, the distance between the most adjacent portions of the pair of wings151is preferably spaced apart from the distance between the pair of side portions111so as not to interfere with the movable contact14.

4. Description of Another Exemplary Embodiment of the Arc Extinguishing Assembly100of the Present Disclosure

Hereinafter, another exemplary embodiment of the arc extinguishing assembly100of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.10to13.

The arc extinguishing assembly according to the present exemplary embodiment has the same configuration as the arc extinguishing assembly100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure except for the arc guide250. Therefore, the modified arc guide250will be described in detail, and the rest of the configuration will be replaced with the above description.

In addition, when comparing the arc guide250according to the present exemplary embodiment and the arc guide150described above, the configuration of the arc guide350except for the inclined surfaces251baccording to the present embodiment is formed in the same way as the arc guide150described above. Accordingly, the rest of the configuration except for the inclined surfaces251bis replaced with the description of the configuration of the arc guide150described above.

Hereinafter, the modified inclined surfaces251bwill be mainly described.

Referring toFIGS.10to12, a pair of wings251have inclined surfaces251bfacing each other.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of wings251may have a trapezoidal cross-section in which the upper part is cut from a right-angled triangle. Each of the inclined surfaces251bmay be formed to be inclined toward the adjacent side portion111as it goes from the lower side to the upper side. In other words, each of the inclined surfaces251bis formed to be inclined toward the adjacent side portion111as it approaches the exhaust112.

That is, a virtual extension line (L2) extending along the inclination direction of each of the inclined surfaces251bforms an acute angle with a virtual center line (C2) passing through the center between the inclined surfaces toward the exhaust. Accordingly, the pair of wings251are formed such that the distance therebetween increases from the lower side to the upper side.

Specifically, the space between the lower ends of the pair of wing units251are spaced apart by a first distance (D1), and the space between the upper ends are spaced apart by a second distance (D2). Herein, the value of the second distance (D2) is greater than the value of the first distance (D1). That is, the distance between the pair of wings251increases from the lower end toward the upper end.

The size of the space between the pair of wings251increases from the lower side to the upper side. As a result, when the metal gas is generated at the stationary contact point13a,a temporary pressure difference occurs between the lower side and the upper side of the space between the two inclined surfaces251b.

In addition, the metal gas is pushed from the lower end having a relatively high pressure to the upper end having a relatively low pressure. Accordingly, the speed at which the arc extends from the bottom to the top may be increased. Referring toFIG.13, the direction in which the arc is pushed by a temporary pressure difference between the arc guides250is illustrated. As a result, the arc is extended to the grid130more quickly, whereby the arc extinguishing performance may be improved.

5. Description of Still Another Exemplary Embodiment of the Arc Extinguishing Assembly100of the Present Disclosure

Hereinafter, still another exemplary embodiment of the arc extinguishing assembly100of the present disclosure will be described with reference toFIGS.14to17.

The arc extinguishing assembly according to the present exemplary embodiment has the same configuration as the arc extinguishing assembly100according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure except for the arc guide350. Therefore, the modified arc guide350will be described in detail, and the rest of the configuration will be replaced with the above description.

In addition, when comparing the arc guide350according to the present exemplary embodiment and the arc guide150described above, the configuration of the arc guide350except for the inclined surface351baccording to the present exemplary embodiment is formed in the same way as the arc guide150described above. Accordingly, the rest of the configuration except for the inclined surface351bwill be replaced with the description of the configuration of the arc guide150described above.

Hereinafter, the modified inclined surfaces351bwill be mainly described.

Referring toFIGS.14to16, a pair of wings351has inclined surfaces351bfacing each other.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pair of wings351may have a trapezoidal cross-section in which the upper part is cut from a right-angled triangle. The pair of wings351respectively have inclined surfaces351bfacing each other, and each of the inclined surfaces351bis formed to be inclined from the front side to the rear side and from the lower side to the upper side toward the adjacent side portion111, respectively.

In other words, the inclined surfaces351bfacing each other are formed to be inclined toward the adjacent side portions111as they move away from the stationary contact point13aand they become close to the exhaust112, respectively. Accordingly, the distance between the inclined surfaces351bincreases from the front side to the rear side and from the lower side to the upper side.

Referring to (a) ofFIG.15, the front end of the pair of wings151is illustrated. The distance between the front ends of the pair of wing parts151increases from the lower side to the upper side. Specifically, the space between the pair of wing parts151is spaced apart by a predetermined first distance (D11) from the lower end (first point), and the space between any point (second point) between the lower end and the upper end is spaced apart by a predetermined second distance (D21) that is greater than the first distance (D11).

Referring to (b) ofFIG.15, the rear end of the pair of wings351is illustrated. The distance between the pair of wings351increases from the front side to the rear side.

At the first point, the distance between the pair of wings351increases from the front side to the rear side. The distance between the pair of wings351is gradually increased toward the rear side from the first distance D11, and is spaced apart from the rear end by a predetermined third distance (D12) that is farther than the first distance (D11).

At the second point, the distance between the pair of wings351increases from the front side to the rear side. The distance between the pair of wings351is gradually increased toward the rear side at the second distance (D21), and is spaced apart from the rear end by a predetermined fourth distance (D22) that is farther than the second distance (D11).

That is, as described above, the distance between the inclined surfaces351bincreases from the front side to the rear side and from the lower side to the upper side. Accordingly, the size of the space between the two inclined surfaces351bincreases from the front side to the rear side and from the lower side to the upper side, respectively. As a result, when an arc is generated at the stationary contact point13a,a temporary pressure difference occurs in the space between the wings351.

In addition, the pressure on the front side is temporarily increased compared to the pressure on the rear side, and the pressure on the bottom side is temporarily increased compared to the pressure on the upper side. As a result, the arc is pushed backwards and upwards by the pressure difference. Accordingly, the extension length and extension speed of the arc from the front side to the rear side may be increased. In addition, the extension speed of the arc from the bottom to the top may be increased. Referring toFIG.17, the direction in which the arc is pushed by a pressure difference between the pair of wings351is illustrated.

As the speed at which the arc extends backwards and upwards is increased, the arc extends more rapidly to the grid130and arc runner140. Accordingly, the arc extinguishing performance may be improved.

In addition, when the voltage of the circuit is lowered, the instantaneous pressure increase generated when the stationary contact point13aand the movable contact point14aare spaced apart may be relatively reduced. Accordingly, the arc does not reach the arc runner140such that the arc extinguishing performance may be reduced.

However, when the arc guide350having the above-described structure is used, a decrease in the amount of pressure increase due to a decrease in the voltage of the circuit may be compensated. Accordingly, even when the voltage of the circuit is lowered, the arc may smoothly extend to the arc runner140.

Although the preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and changes may be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below.

The present disclosure relates to an arc extinguishing assembly and has industrial applicability because it is possible to provide an arc extinguishing assembly having an arc guide.