Patent Description:
The switching device may be configured for switching DC currents, especially for switching higher DC currents. The switching device may be used in the field of electric mobility as well as in photovoltaic systems, battery storage systems or uninterruptible power supplies.

Additionally, a switching device may be required to switch off short-circuit currents, for example larger than <NUM> kA. Since a space is limited in an electric vehicle, the switching device should be realized in a compact form.

Document <CIT> describes a magnetic enhanced arc extinguisher for switching assemblies having rotatable permanent magnets in housings mounted to fixed contacts. A contactor comprises two stationary contacts, two contact pads which are attached to the stationary contacts, a movable contact arm, two movable contacts at the movable contact arm and an electromagnetic solenoid with an armature. The stationary contact has a bended form. A load current that flows through the stationary contact, the contact pad, the movable contact and the movable contact arm has a U-form in the switched-on state.

Document <CIT> refers to an electro-mechanic connector. The connector comprises two terminal contacts, two fixed contacts arranged at the terminal contacts, a contact bridge, two movable contacts arranged at the contact bridge and a magnetic drive assembly with an armature.

Document <CIT> is related to a switching device with permanent-magnetic arc extinguishment. A contact bridge is disposed on a contact carrier made of electrically insulating material.

Document <CIT> refers to a switching device according to the preamble of claim <NUM>, which is a circuit breaker apparatus having a bifurcated contact.

The apparatus comprises an electromagnetic coil acting on an armature, integral with a mobile assembly. The armature is subjected by an intermediary of this mobile assembly to the action of a return spring. The mobile assembly is an insulator and carries a bar for a moving bridge contact. A contact compression spring acts on the bar. The vertical motion of the moving assembly is guided by guides, arranged in the sides. A box carries the input and output terminals for the current, supporting the fixed poles assembled with these terminals. Grooves in the sides and walls hold the sheets which have the purpose to favor extinction of an arc by fragmenting it. The assembly carrying the moving contact or contacts forms an insulating partition which extends between the fixed contact poles and separates them.

Document <CIT> describes a circuit breaker. A contact actuating rod is operatively connected to an operating mechanism. The rod carries a bridge contact member secured thereto by a pin and a slotted hole. A spring biases the bridge member outward from the rod. An insulating barrier is secured to the actuating rod. Two contacts when actuated to the closed circuit position engage two further contacts. The contacts are attached to one end of respective flared arc horns. The arc horns are secured in position by suitable slots in a pair of plates.

It is an object to provide a switching device and a method for operating a switching device that is able to operate with higher currents.

These objects are achieved by the subject-matter of the independent claims. Further developments and embodiments are described in the dependent claims.

The definitions as described above also apply to the following description unless otherwise stated.

According to the invention, the switching device comprises a first terminal contact, a first fixed contact arranged at the first terminal contact, a contact bridge and a first movable contact arranged at the contact bridge. The first fixed contact is in contact to the first movable contact in a switched-on state of the switching device. The first fixed contact is free of contact to the first movable contact in a switched-off state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, a load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has a U-formed path in the switched-on state.

A first arc may be generated between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact at a transition between the switched-on state and the switched-off state of the switching device.

Advantageously, the U-form of the load current results in a magnetic field that drives the first arc away from the first fixed contact and the first movable contact. Thus, the switching device is able to switch off also very high currents. The U-form can be named U-shape.

In an embodiment, the first terminal contact has a bended form such that a load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has the U-formed path in the switched-on state. U-formed can be named U-shaped. The first terminal contact may be extruded or milled. The first terminal contact may have the bended form directly after extrusion or milling. Alternatively, the first terminal contact may e.g. be made out a cuboid part which is bended into the bended form.

In an embodiment, the first terminal contact forms a first arm of the U-formed path. The contact bridge forms a second arm of the U-formed path. The first movable contact and the first fixed contact are part of the coupling of the first arm to the second arm.

In an embodiment, the load current that flows through the first terminal contact in the switched-on state has a path between an eighth and three-quarter of a circular line. Thus, a part of the first terminal contact may have a form between an eighth and three-quarter of a circular line.

In an embodiment, the load current that flows through the first terminal contact in the switched-on state has a path between a quarter and an half of a circular line. Thus, a part of the first terminal contact may have a form between a quarter and an half of a circular line.

In an embodiment, the path of the load current that flows through the first terminal contact first extends in a first direction and then in a second direction which has an angle of at least <NUM> degree to the first direction. The angle may be at least <NUM> degree. The angle may be at least <NUM> degree.

In an embodiment, the path of the load current that flows through the first terminal contact between the first fixed contact and an area for connecting the first terminal contact from the outside of the switching device first extends in a first direction and then in a second direction which has an angle of at least <NUM> degree to the first direction. The angle may be at least <NUM> degree. The angle may be at least <NUM> degree. The angle may be e.g. <NUM> degree.

In an embodiment, the path of the load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first movable contact and the contact bridge in the switched-on state extends or approximately extends in a first plane.

In an embodiment, the switching device comprises a cover. The first terminal contact may flush with the cover. The first terminal contact may not extend beyond the cover. The first terminal contact may be arranged in a recess of the cover.

In an embodiment, the switching device comprises a magnet core. The contact bridge may move away from the magnet core at a transition from the switched-off state to the switched-on state.

In an embodiment, a movement of the contact bridge between the switched-on state and the switched-off state has a direction that is parallel to the first plane.

The load current may be negative or positive. The load current may be e.g. a DC current.

In an embodiment, the switching device comprises a permanent magnet system comprising a first and a second pole plate and a permanent magnet that is arranged between the first pole plate and the second pole plate. The permanent magnet system generates a magnetic field perpendicular to the first plane.

In an embodiment, the first fixed contact and the first movable contact are between the first and the second pole plate in the switched-on state and in the switched-off state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, the switching device comprises a first arc runner arranged at the first terminal contact near the first fixed contact. The switching device may comprise a second arc runner arranged at the contact bridge near the first movable contact.

In an embodiment, the switching device comprises a first arc extinguishing device for extinguishing the first arc. The first arc extinguishing device may be connected to the first terminal contact and/or the first arc runner.

In an embodiment, the first terminal contact, the first arc generated between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact at a transition between the switched-on state and the switched-off state and the contact bridge form a first magnetic field loop that blows the first arc in the direction of the first arc extinguishing device. The load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first arc and the contact bridge has the U-form, especially in a side view. The U-form of the load current generates the first magnetic field loop. A direction of movement of the contact bridge is perpendicular to the direction of the side view.

According to the invention, the switching device comprises a second terminal contact, a second fixed contact arranged at the second terminal contact and a second movable contact arranged at the contact bridge. The second fixed contact is in contact to the second movable contact in the switched-on state of the switching device. The second fixed contact is free of contact to the second movable contact in the switched-off state of the switching device.

The second terminal contact may be realized such as the first terminal contact. The first and the second terminal contact may be symmetrical to a symmetry axis.

In an embodiment, the load current that flows through the contact bridge, the second movable contact, the second fixed contact and the second terminal contact has a further U-formed path in the switched-on state.

A second arc may be generated between the second fixed contact and the second movable contact at the transition between the switched-on state and the switched-off state of the switching device.

Advantageously, the further U-form of the load current results in a magnetic field that drives the second arc away from the second fixed contact and the second movable contact into a second arc extinguishing device. Thus, the switching device is able to switch off also very high currents.

In an embodiment, the second terminal contact has a bended form such that the load current that flows through the contact bridge, the second movable contact, the second fixed contact and the second terminal contact has the further U-formed path in the switched-on state. The second terminal contact may be fabricated such as the first terminal contact.

The second fixed contact and the second movable contact may be between the first and the second pole plate in the switched-on state and in the switched-off state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, the second terminal contact, the second arc generated between the second fixed contact and the second movable contact at a transition between the switched-on state and the switched-off state and the contact bridge form a second magnetic field loop that blows the second arc in the direction of the second arc extinguishing device. The load current that flows through the second terminal contact, the second arc and the contact bridge has the further U-form. The further U-form of the load current generates the second magnetic field loop. The first and the second magnetic field loop are coupled.

According to the invention, the switching device comprises a contact bridge carrier which is arranged at the contact bridge. The contact bridge carrier is rigidly attached or fixed to the contact bridge. The contact bridge carrier comprises a barrier. The barrier may be approximately perpendicular or perpendicular towards the contact bridge. The barrier is located between the first and the second terminal contact. The barrier moves together with the contact bridge. Advantageously, the barrier separates the first arc from the second arc in every state, such as e.g. in the switched-off state, the switched-on state and during a dynamic lift-off of the contact bridge.

Advantageously, the barrier may be inserted between the vertex of the U-form of the first terminal contact and the vertex of the U-form of second terminal contact. The smallest distance between the first and the second terminal contact may be between these two vertices.

In an embodiment, the contact bridge is realized as a cuboid or approximately as a cuboid.

In an embodiment, the switching device further comprises a further first terminal contact, a further first fixed contact arranged at the further first terminal contact, a further second terminal contact, a further second fixed contact arranged at the further second terminal contact, a further contact bridge and a further first and a further second movable contact that are arranged at the further contact bridge.

The contact bridge and the further contact bridge are operated in parallel, e.g. are moved simultaneously.

In an embodiment, the further first fixed contact is in contact to the further first movable contact and the further second fixed contact is in contact to the further second movable contact in the switched-on state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, the further first fixed contact is free of contact to the further first movable contact and the further second fixed contact is free of contact to the further second movable contact in the switched-off state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, the switching device is configurable as or operable for a separate circuit of the contact bridge and the further contact bridge, for a series circuit of the contact bridge and the further contact bridge and for a parallel circuit of the contact bridge and the further contact bridge.

In an embodiment, for the realization of the series circuit, the switching device further comprises a terminal connecting bridge electrically coupling the second terminal contact to the further second terminal contact. Thus, the first terminal contact is electrically connected to the further first terminal contact via the contact bridge and the further contact bridge in the switched-on state of the switching device. A first terminal lead may be connected to the first terminal contact and a second terminal lead may be connected to the further first terminal contact. Thus, the switching device can operate at high voltage.

In an embodiment, for the realization of the parallel circuit, the switching device comprises a further terminal connecting bridge electrically coupling the first terminal contact to the further first terminal contact. The first terminal lead may be connected to the terminal connecting bridge and the second terminal lead may be connected to the further terminal connecting bridge. Thus, the switching device can carry a high load current.

In an embodiment, for the realization of the separate circuit of the contact bridge and the further contact bridge, four terminal leads are connected to the first, the further first, the second and the further second terminal contact. The switching device is implemented as two-pole switching device and can switch two load currents at one point of time.

The terminal leads are connected from the outside to the switching device. A terminal lead can be realized as connection line, busbar or power cable.

The switching device may be configured such that the terminal connecting bridge and/or the further terminal connecting bridge are outside of the cover of the switching device. They can be inserted after fabrication of the switching device such as at the site of installation of the switching device.

In an embodiment, in the switched-off state, the load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first arc, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has a U-form.

The switching device may be part of an electric vehicle and/or hybrid vehicle. The switching device is realized as a circuit breaker, switching in air or encapsulated.

The switching device is configured to switch the load current at a high voltage. A high voltage may be any voltage above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V, above <NUM> V and/or above <NUM> V. A nominal value of the load current of the switching device may be above <NUM> A, <NUM> A, <NUM> A, <NUM> A or <NUM> A. A nominal value of overcurrent of the switching device may be above <NUM> kA, <NUM> kA, <NUM> kA, <NUM> kA or <NUM> kA.

In an embodiment, a method for operating a switching device comprises bringing a first fixed contact in contact to a first movable contact in a switched-on state of the switching device, and bringing the first fixed contact out of contact to the first movable contact in a switched-off state of the switching device.

In an embodiment, a load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has a U-formed path in the switched-on state. The load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first arc, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has a U-formed path in the switched-off state. The first fixed contact is arranged at a first terminal contact. The first movable contact is arranged at a contact bridge.

In an embodiment, the first terminal contact is bended such that a load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has the U-formed path in the switched-on state.

Thus, the first terminal contact is bended such that a load current that flows through the first terminal contact, the first fixed contact, a first arc, the first movable contact and the contact bridge has a U-formed path in the switched-off state. The first arc is between the first fixed contact and the first movable contact.

The method for operating a switching device is implemented by the switching device according to one of the embodiments defined above.

The following description of figures of embodiments may further illustrate and explain aspects of the switching device. Parts and devices with the same structure and the same effect, respectively, appear with equivalent reference symbols. In so far as parts or devices correspond to one another in terms of their function in different figures, the description thereof is not repeated for each of the following figures.

<FIG> shows an example of a switching device <NUM>. The switching device <NUM> realizes a remote controlled circuit breaker function. The switching device <NUM> comprises an enclosing housing (shown in <FIG>). The switching device <NUM> comprises a first fixed contact <NUM>, a first movable contact <NUM>, a contact bridge <NUM> and a first terminal contact <NUM>. The contact bridge <NUM> may be called "switching bridge". The first movable contact <NUM> is fixed on the contact bridge <NUM>. The first fixed contact <NUM> is fixed on the first terminal contact <NUM>.

Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a second fixed contact <NUM>, a second movable contact <NUM> and a second terminal contact <NUM>. The second fixed contact <NUM> is fixed on the second terminal contact <NUM>. Moreover, the second movable contact <NUM> is fixed on the contact bridge <NUM>. The contact bridge <NUM> is realized as a cuboid. The contact bridge <NUM> may be made of copper. The first and the second fixed contact <NUM>, <NUM> may also be called "fixed contact tip". The first and the second movable contact <NUM>, <NUM> may also be called "movable contact tip". The first and the second fixed contact <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of AgSnO<NUM> or AgZnO. Also the first and the second movable contact <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of AgSnO<NUM> or AgZnO.

The first terminal contact <NUM> has a bended form. The first terminal contact <NUM> has a U-form. In an example the first terminal contact <NUM> may be fabricated by bending a cuboid into a U-form. The second terminal contact <NUM> is realized such as the first terminal contact <NUM>. The first and the second terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM> can be made of copper. The first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> each comprises a terminal connection hole <NUM>, <NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> comprises a first arc runner <NUM> connected to the first terminal contact <NUM>. Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a second arc runner <NUM> connected to the contact bridge <NUM>. The first arc runner <NUM> is attached to the first terminal contact <NUM> in vicinity of the first fixed contact <NUM>. The second arc runner <NUM> is attached to the contact bridge <NUM> in vicinity of the first movable contact <NUM>.

Additionally, the switching device <NUM> comprises a third arc runner <NUM> connected to the second terminal contact <NUM>. Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a fourth arc runner <NUM> connected to the contact bridge <NUM>. The arc runners may be made of bronze, such as CnSn6, Cu or CuZn.

A first arc extinguishing device <NUM> is connected to the first arc runner <NUM>. The first arc extinguishing device <NUM> comprises a number of splitter plates <NUM> that are arranged in a core <NUM>. The core <NUM> holds the splitter plates <NUM> and is connected to the first terminal contact <NUM>. The core <NUM> is realized as arcing chamber side wall or walls. The splitter plates <NUM> are made of stainless steel or copper. A second arc extinguishing device <NUM> is connected to the third arc runner <NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> comprises a contact bridge carrier <NUM>. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> may be of plastics such as a polyetheretherketon, abbreviated as PEEK. The contact bridge <NUM> is inserted into the contact bridge carrier <NUM>. Moreover, the contact bridge carrier <NUM> comprises a barrier <NUM> that is arranged in the space between the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> is free of a contact to the first and to the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> has the form of a plate.

The barrier <NUM> is also realized from a plastics material such as e.g. PEEK. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> and the barrier <NUM> are fabricated as one part. Thus, the contact bridge carrier <NUM> and the barrier <NUM> are made out of one identical material.

Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a permanent magnet system <NUM> having a permanent magnet <NUM> and a first and a second pole plate <NUM>, <NUM>. The second pole plate <NUM> is not shown in <FIG>. The contact bridge <NUM>, the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> and the first and the second arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged between the first and the second pole plates <NUM>, <NUM>. The permanent magnet <NUM> may be realized as rare earth magnet and may be e.g. neodymium-based. The first and the second pole plate <NUM>, <NUM> may be made of steel.

Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a magnetic drive assembly <NUM>. The magnetic drive assembly <NUM> comprises a coil <NUM>. Moreover, the magnetic drive assembly <NUM> comprises a magnet core <NUM> which holds the coil <NUM>. Additionally, the magnetic drive assembly <NUM> comprises an armature <NUM>. Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a bridge <NUM>. The bridge <NUM> passes through the coil <NUM>. The armature <NUM> is coupled to the bridge <NUM>. The armature <NUM> is fastened to the bridge <NUM>. The bridge <NUM> encloses the magnet core <NUM> and the armature <NUM>. The switching device <NUM> comprises a contact spring <NUM> that couples the armature <NUM> via the bridge <NUM> to the contact bridge carrier <NUM>. Thus, the armature <NUM> is not fastened to the contact bridge carrier <NUM> and to the contact bridge <NUM>. The armature <NUM> is coupled via the contact spring <NUM> to the contact bridge carrier <NUM> and thus to the contact bridge <NUM>. This arrangement is shown in detail in <FIG>. The contact spring <NUM> may be made of steel such as inox steel.

The contact bridge <NUM> and the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> are part of a first switching chamber <NUM> of the switching device <NUM>. The first switching chamber <NUM> comprises the first and the second arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM> and the arc runners <NUM> to <NUM>.

Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a second switching chamber <NUM> that is realized such as the first switching chamber <NUM>. Thus, the switching device <NUM> comprises a further contact bridge <NUM>', a further first and second terminal contact <NUM>', <NUM>', a further first and second fixed contact <NUM>', <NUM>' and a further first and second movable contact <NUM>', <NUM>'. The switching device <NUM> comprises a further first and second arc extinguishing device <NUM>', <NUM>' and arc runners <NUM>' to <NUM>'. The switching device <NUM> comprises a further permanent magnet system <NUM>' having a further permanent magnet <NUM>' and a further first and second pole plate <NUM>', <NUM>'. The further contact bridge <NUM>', the further first and second terminal contact <NUM>', <NUM>' etc. are part of the second switching chamber <NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> comprises a terminal connecting bridge <NUM>. The terminal connecting bridge <NUM> electrically couples the first switching chamber <NUM> to the second switching chamber <NUM>. The terminal connecting bridge <NUM> electrically connects the second terminal contact <NUM> to the further second terminal contact <NUM>'. Thus, the terminal connecting bridge <NUM> is inserted into the second terminal connection hole <NUM> and a further second terminal connection hole <NUM>' which is hidden in <FIG>. The terminal connecting bridge <NUM> made be made of copper. The magnetic drive assembly <NUM> is also coupled via the bridge <NUM>, the contact spring <NUM>, a pin <NUM> (shown in <FIG>) and the contact bridge carrier <NUM> to the further contact bridge <NUM>'.

The switching device <NUM> is configured to be set in a switched-on state or a switched-off state. The switched-off state is shown in <FIG>. In the switched-off state, the first fixed contact <NUM> is not in contact with the first movable contact <NUM>. Correspondingly, the second fixed contact <NUM> is not in contact with the second movable contact <NUM>. Thus, a flow of a load current I from the first terminal contact <NUM> to the second terminal contact <NUM> via the contact bridge <NUM> is inhibited.

The switching device <NUM> is set from the switched-off state into the switched-on state by a movement of the contact bridge <NUM> in a direction perpendicular to the contact bridge <NUM>. The magnetic drive assembly <NUM>, as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, moves the contact bridge <NUM> via the bridge <NUM> and the contact spring <NUM> towards the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. In the switched-on state, the first fixed contact <NUM> is in contact to the first movable contact <NUM> and the second fixed contact <NUM> is in contact to the second movable contact <NUM>. Thus, a load current I can flow from the first terminal contact <NUM> via the first fixed contact <NUM>, the first movable contact <NUM>, the contact bridge <NUM>, the second movable contact <NUM> and the second fixed contact <NUM> to the second terminal contact <NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> is set from the switched-on state into the switched-off state by a movement of the contact bridge <NUM> that separates the contact bridge <NUM> from the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. In case of a load current I flowing before switching, a first arc <NUM> may be generated between the first fixed contact <NUM> and the first movable contact <NUM> and a second arc <NUM> may be generated between the second movable contact <NUM> and the second fixed contact <NUM>.

The load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> has a curved or bended path. The load current I has a U-formed or U-shaped path. Correspondingly, the load current I that flows through the second terminal contact <NUM> also has a curved or bended path. The load current I in the second terminal contact <NUM> has a further U-formed path. The opening of the U-formed path is directed towards the opening of the further U-formed path.

In <FIG>, the switching device <NUM> comprises two electrical serially coupled switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM>. The extinguishing of the arcs is further explained with <FIG>.

<FIG> shows an example of a cross-section of the contact bridge <NUM>, the contact bridge carrier <NUM> and the magnetic drive assembly <NUM> of the example shown in <FIG>. The barrier <NUM> is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the contact bridge <NUM>. The contact bridge <NUM> is fixed into the contact bridge carrier <NUM>. However, the contact bridge carrier <NUM> is movable with respect to the armature <NUM>. The contact spring <NUM> is arranged between the armature <NUM> and the contact bridge <NUM>. The contact spring <NUM> presses the contact bridge <NUM> in the direction of the first and second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. A pin <NUM> or bolt is attached to an end of the contact spring <NUM>. The pin <NUM> is directed towards the contact bridge <NUM>. Thus, the pin <NUM> is directed towards a notch <NUM> of the contact bridge <NUM>. The contact spring <NUM> and the pin <NUM> are arranged between the contact bridge <NUM> and the bridge <NUM> and thus between the contact bridge <NUM> and the armature <NUM>. At the transition between the switched-on state to the switched-off state, the armature <NUM> pulls the bridge <NUM>, the contact bridge carrier <NUM> and the contact bridge <NUM> away from the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. In <FIG>, the magnetic drive assembly <NUM> is shorted in the direction of switching. The magnetic drive assembly <NUM> is connected to the contact bridge <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> is realized as an arc barrier or arc barrier plate. Thus, the contact bridge <NUM> is held in an exact position by the contact spring <NUM> and the pin <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example of the contact bridge <NUM> and the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> shown in <FIG> and <FIG> in a cross-section in the switched-on state of the switching device <NUM>. Some parts are omitted to better show the relevant steps. The first terminal contact <NUM> has a first arm <NUM>, a second arm <NUM> and a connecting part <NUM>. The connecting part <NUM> connects the first arm <NUM> to the second arm <NUM>. The first terminal contact <NUM> has the form of a semicircle or comprises a part having the form of a semicircle. The first arm <NUM> has a main direction that is approximately parallel to a main direction of the contact bridge <NUM>. Thus, the load current I that flows through the first arm <NUM> of the first terminal contact <NUM>, the first fixed contact <NUM>, the first movable contact <NUM> and the terminal bridge <NUM> has a U-form or U-shape.

The second terminal contact <NUM> has a further first arm <NUM>, a further second arm <NUM> and a further connecting part <NUM>. The second terminal contact <NUM> has the form of a semicircle or comprises a part having the form of a semicircle. Additionally, the load current I that flows through the terminal contact <NUM>, the second movable contact <NUM>, the second fixed contact <NUM> and the further first arm <NUM> of the second terminal contact <NUM> has a further U-form or further U-shape. The connecting part <NUM> of the first terminal contact <NUM> is close to the further connecting part <NUM> of the second terminal contact <NUM>. The U-form and the further U-form both "lie" on the contact bridge <NUM>. The bottom of the U-form and the bottom of the further U-form are both directed to the barrier <NUM>. The opening of the U-form has an opposite direction than the opening of the further U-form.

In case of a high value of the load current I such as in case of a short-circuit, the load current I generates a high magnetic field at the place of the first arc <NUM>. This magnetic field is higher than a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet system <NUM>. The direction of the magnetic field is indicated by circles with a point where the magnetic field comes out of the plane of the figure. Correspondingly, the magnetic field is indicated as a circle with a cross at places where the magnetic field goes into the plane of the figure.

In the case that the load current I has a high value such as in the case of a short-circuit, the load current I in the first arm <NUM> of the first terminal contact <NUM> and in the bridge contact <NUM> generates a magnetic field at the place of the first fixed contact <NUM> and the first movable contact <NUM>. Similarly, the load current I in the bridge contact <NUM> and in the first arm <NUM> of the second terminal contact <NUM> generates a magnetic field at the place of the second fixed contact <NUM> and the second movable contact <NUM>.

The load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> in the switched-on state has a path of a half of a circular line. The path of the load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> first extends in a first direction and then in a second direction which has an angle α of <NUM> degree to the first direction.

<FIG> shows the cross-section shown in <FIG> in the switched-off state, for example at the transition from the switched-on state to the switched-off state. In the case that the load current I has a high value such as in the case of a short-circuit, the load current I in the first arm <NUM> of the first terminal contact <NUM> and in the bridge contact <NUM> generates a magnetic field at the place of the first arc <NUM> such that the first arc <NUM> is driven into the first arc extinguishing device <NUM> (not shown). The force F on the first arc <NUM> is the Lorentz-force. Thus, the first arc <NUM> is driven into the first arc extinguishing device <NUM> by the Lorentz-force.

Furthermore, the load current I flowing through the bridge contact <NUM> and the first arm <NUM> of the second terminal contact <NUM> generates a high magnetic field at the place of the second arc <NUM>. Thus, the second arc <NUM> is driven into the second arc extinguishing device <NUM>. A further first and a further second arc inside the second chamber <NUM> are driven into the further first and second arc extinguishing device <NUM>', <NUM>'.

<FIG> shows the cross-section shown in <FIG> in the switched-off state with the load current I flowing in the opposite direction. Also for a load current I flowing in the opposite direction, the force F drives the first arc <NUM> into the direction of the first arc extinguishing device <NUM> and the second arc <NUM> in the direction of the second arc extinguishing device <NUM>. Advantageously, this effect is independent of the direction of the load current I.

<FIG> shows the cross-section of <FIG> in the case of a low value of the load current I. In case of a low value of the load current I such as in case of a nominal circuit or less, the magnetic field generated by the load current I is lower than a magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet system <NUM>. As illustrated in <FIG>, the first and the second arc <NUM>, <NUM> are driven into the barrier <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> is configured to prevent a combination of the first and the second arc <NUM>, <NUM> into a common arc directly between the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. This effect depends on the direction of the load current I. Thus, in case of the load current I flowing into the opposite direction, the first and the second arc <NUM>, <NUM> are driven into the first and the second arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>). Here the force F and the movement of the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> depend on the direction of the load current I and on the direction of the magnetic field.

Thus, the first arc <NUM> is driven into the first arc extinguishing device <NUM> or towards the barrier <NUM>. Also, the second arc <NUM> is driven into the second arc extinguishing device <NUM> or the barrier <NUM>. Thus, either both arcs are driven into the two arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM> or are both driven to the barrier <NUM>.

The first and the second switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> are configured such that the two arcs inside the second switching chamber <NUM> are driven into the further arc extinguishing devices <NUM>', <NUM>', when the two arcs inside the first switching chamber <NUM> are driven into the barrier <NUM>. Correspondingly, the first and the second switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> are configured that the two arcs inside the second switching chamber <NUM> are driven into the further barrier <NUM>', when the two arcs inside the first switching chamber <NUM> are driven into the arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the direction of the magnetic field generated by the permanent magnet system <NUM> is equal to the direction of the magnetic field generated by the further permanent magnet system <NUM>'. Since a current direction in the first arc <NUM> is opposite to a current direction in the further first arc, either the first arc <NUM> or the further first arc <NUM> is driven to one of the arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM>'. Thus, the load current I is successfully interrupted. This is valid for the load current I being smaller than the nominal value.

Thus, the four arcs in the first and the second switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> are extinguished for low values of the load current I and also for high values of the load current I such as e.g. in the case of a short-circuit.

<FIG> shows an alternative example of the switching device <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The first terminal contact <NUM> is realized as a quarter of a circular line. Thus, the load current I has a U-formed path flowing through the first terminal contact <NUM>, the first fixed contact <NUM>, the first movable contact <NUM> and the contact bridge <NUM>, such as shown in <FIG>, <FIG>. The second terminal contact <NUM> is realized such as the first terminal contact <NUM>.

The load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> in the switched-on state has a path of a quarter of a circular line. The blowout field loop can be achieved also with other examples of the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>. Thus, in general, the load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> in the switched-on state may have a path between an eighth and three-quarter of a circular line or may have a path between a quarter and an half of a circular line.

The path of the load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> first extends in a first direction and then in a second direction which has an angle α of <NUM> degree to the first direction. In general, the first direction may have an angle α of at least <NUM> degree to the first direction.

<FIG> shows an alternative example of the switching device <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The first terminal contact <NUM> is realized as an angle piece. The first terminal contact <NUM> may have an L-form (capital letter L-form). The first arm <NUM> of the terminal contact <NUM> is parallel or approximately parallel to the contact bridge <NUM>. The path of the load current I that flows through the first terminal contact <NUM> first extends in a first direction and then in a second direction which has an angle α to the first direction. The second arm <NUM> of the terminal contact <NUM> has the angle α with the first arm <NUM> of the terminal contact <NUM>. The angle α may be out of a range between <NUM> to <NUM>°. The angle α may be out of a range between <NUM> to <NUM>°. The angle α may be, for example, <NUM>°. The first arm <NUM> may have a short length. The first arm <NUM> may be configured to provide an area only for the first fixed contact <NUM>. The second terminal contact <NUM> is realized such as the first terminal contact <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example of the first terminal contact <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The first terminal contact <NUM> has a U-form. The first terminal contact <NUM> has a first length L1 between a middle of the first fixed contact <NUM> and a bottom of the U-form. The bottom is the vertex of the U-form. The first terminal contact <NUM> has a second length L2 between a middle of a terminal connection hole <NUM> and the bottom of the U-form. The amount of the difference DL between the first and the second length L1, L2 may be less than <NUM> or <NUM> or <NUM>. In an example, the difference DL may be <NUM>. The second length L2 is larger than the first length L1. A bus connection line, bolt, pin or screw may be inserted into the terminal connection hole <NUM>.

Alternatively, not shown, the first length L1 may be larger than the second length L2.

<FIG> shows an example of the first terminal contact <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The first arc runner <NUM> has a first part <NUM> attached to the first terminal contact <NUM>. The first arc runner <NUM> has a second part <NUM> attached to the first part <NUM>. The first arc extinguishing device <NUM> may be fixed to the second part <NUM>. A main surface of the first terminal contact <NUM> has a first angle β with respect to the first part <NUM> of the first arc runner <NUM>. A main surface of the first arm <NUM> obtains the first angle β with respect to the first part <NUM> of the first arc runner <NUM>. A main direction of the first arm <NUM> has the first angle β with respect to the first part <NUM> of the first arc runner <NUM>. The first angle β may be between <NUM> degree and <NUM> degree or may be between <NUM> degree and <NUM> degree. In an example, the first angle β may obtain <NUM> degree.

The middle of the first fixed contact <NUM> has a first distance D1 to the end of the first part <NUM> of the first arc runner <NUM> measured parallel to the main surface of the first terminal contact <NUM> or the main direction of the first arm <NUM>. The length of the first part <NUM> is approximately D1 / cos β. The second terminal contact <NUM> is realized such as the first terminal contact <NUM>. The first distance D1 may be between <NUM> and <NUM> or may be between <NUM> and <NUM>. In an example, the first distance D1 may obtain <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an example of the contact bridge <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The second arc runner <NUM> is attached to the contact bridge <NUM>. A main surface of the contact bridge <NUM> has a second angle γ with respect to the second arc runner <NUM>. A main surface of the first movable contact <NUM> obtains the second angle γ with respect to the second arc runner <NUM>. A main direction of the contact bridge <NUM> has the second angle γ with respect to the second arc runner <NUM>. The second angle γ may be equal or approximately equal to the first angle β. A difference between the second angle γ and the first angle β may be less than <NUM> degree, <NUM> degree or <NUM> degree. In an example, the second angle γ may obtain <NUM> degree.

The middle of the first movable contact <NUM> has a second distance D2 to the end of the second arc runner <NUM> measured parallel to the main surface of the contact bridge <NUM> or the main direction of the contact bridge <NUM>. The length of the second arc runner <NUM> is approximately D2 / cos γ. The second movable contact <NUM> is realized such as the first movable contact <NUM>. The first distance D1 may be equal or approximately equal to the second distance D2. A difference between the first distance D1 and the second distance D2 may be less than <NUM>, <NUM> or <NUM>. In an example, the second distance D2 may obtain <NUM>.

<FIG> shows an alternative example of the switching device <NUM> which is a further development of the above shown examples. The switching device <NUM> comprises a cover <NUM>. The cover <NUM> comprises a first and a second part <NUM>, <NUM>. The first and the further first terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>' flush with the cover <NUM>. The first and the further first terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>' do not extend beyond the cover <NUM>. The first and the further first terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>' are arranged in a recess <NUM> of the cover <NUM>. The first and the further first terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM>' provide a flat surface. The terminal connecting bridge <NUM> is realized outside of the cover <NUM>. A heat sink <NUM> is connected to the terminal connecting bridge <NUM>. The heat sink <NUM> is configured to dissipate the heat generated by the load current I having nominal current value. The heat sink <NUM> may be made of aluminum, such as anodized aluminum. Thus, the terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>, <NUM>' are implemented in a space saving manner.

<FIG> shows an example of the switching device <NUM> which is a further development of the above-shown examples. In <FIG>, another view of the switching device <NUM> of <FIG> is shown. <FIG> only shows current carrying and arc extinguishing parts. In <FIG>, the switching device <NUM> is realized as a multipole DC switching device with modular switching chambers. The switching device <NUM> comprises a third switching chamber <NUM>. In general, the switching device <NUM> may comprise two chambers <NUM>, <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, three chambers <NUM> to <NUM> as shown in <FIG>, more than three chambers or only one chamber. A switching chamber may be abbreviated chamber.

The third chamber <NUM> is realized such as the first chamber <NUM>. Thus, the switching device <NUM> comprises an additional contact bridge <NUM>", an additional first and second terminal contact <NUM>", <NUM>", an additional first and second fixed contact <NUM>", <NUM>" and an additional first and second movable contact <NUM>", <NUM>". The switching device <NUM> comprises additional first and second arc extinguishing devices <NUM>", <NUM>" and arc runners <NUM>" to <NUM>". The switching device <NUM> comprises an additional permanent magnet system <NUM>" having an additional permanent magnet <NUM>" and an additional first and second pole plate <NUM>", <NUM>". The additional contact bridge <NUM>", the additional first and second terminal contact <NUM>", <NUM>" etc. are part of the third switching chamber <NUM>.

The terminal connecting bridge <NUM>, shown in <FIG>, is omitted. Thus, the switching device <NUM> is configured for switching of three independent poles. In case the direction of the load currents I of the three poles is known, one chamber for each pole is sufficient for extinguishing the arcs of each pole.

In an alternative embodiment, not shown, the switching device <NUM> may comprise the terminal connecting bridge <NUM> connecting the second terminal contact <NUM> to the further second terminal contact <NUM>'. The switching device <NUM> may comprise an additional connecting bridge. The further first terminal contact <NUM>' may be connected by an additional terminal connecting bridge to the additional first terminal contact <NUM>". Thus, the three switching chambers <NUM> to <NUM> are connected in series. The contact bridge <NUM>, the further contact bridge <NUM>' and the additional contact bridge <NUM>" are connected in series. The magnetic drive assembly <NUM> moves the contact bridge <NUM>, the further contact bridge <NUM>' and the additional contact bridge <NUM>" in parallel. Thus, at a transition from a switched-on state to a switched-off state of the switching device <NUM>, six arcs may be generated. Therefore, a voltage across one of the six arcs is only a portion of the overall voltage between the first terminal contact <NUM> and the additional second terminal contact <NUM>". The series connection of the chambers <NUM> to <NUM> or the series connection of the contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" allows to switch higher voltages.

A parallel connection of the chambers <NUM> to <NUM> or a parallel connection of the contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" allows higher currents to be switched. The load current I flows through two contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>' as shown in <FIG>, three contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" as shown in <FIG>, more than three contact bridges or only one contact bridge.

The series connection of the chambers <NUM> to <NUM> or the parallel connection of the chambers <NUM> to <NUM> can be performed e.g. after fabrication of the switching device <NUM> such as e.g. inside a factory that installs the switching device <NUM> (e.g. in an electro vehicle). The series connection of the contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" or the parallel connection of the contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" can be performed e.g. after fabrication of the switching device <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, in the switching device <NUM>, component assemblies are modularly used. Several switching chambers <NUM> to <NUM> can be configured as switching devices with different characteristics in different manners. A DC switching device <NUM> with an improved short-circuit performance, for example for even higher nominal voltages, can be realized using an electrical series arrangement of several switching chambers <NUM> to <NUM>, wherein the movable contact bridges <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>" are operated by a common magnet drive assembly <NUM> with appropriate magnet force. A short-circuit tolerant DC switching device <NUM> can be realized for several current paths which are independent by omitting the terminal connection bridges <NUM>. In <FIG>, a DC switching arrangement for three different current paths is shown.

The contact bridge, arc extinguishing device and components of the magnet drive can be used for the fabrication of the switching device <NUM> as shown here but also for other switching devices.

The switching device <NUM> can be realized as a remote control switching device or remotely controlled switching device. The switching device <NUM> is configured to conduct and switch high load currents having high DC voltages. The switching device <NUM> is configured for a high number of switching events. The switching device <NUM> is configured to safely switch off short currents higher than <NUM> kA or higher than <NUM> kA or higher than <NUM> kA. The switching device <NUM> is configured to switch off load currents at voltages higher than <NUM> V or higher than <NUM> V.

The switching device <NUM> is configured to safely control a short-circuit current without the use of a fuse. In the case of switching of high short-circuit currents, quick movement of the energy-rich arcs <NUM>, <NUM> from the switching contacts <NUM> to <NUM> by a magnetic blowout field and a quick extinguishing in an arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM> are performed. A permanent magnet system <NUM> is usually configured for the switching of DC nominal currents. However, these permanent magnet system <NUM> are typically not implemented for the realization of short switching-off durations in the case of a short-circuit. The magnetic field is increased by a high factor by forming the geometry of the contact bridge <NUM>, the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> and optionally also other parts to a so-called magnetic blowout field loop. This magnetic field is generated in a short-circuit case and has an effect on the arcs <NUM>, <NUM>.

As shown in <FIG>, the first and the second terminal contact <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a massive loop in a U-form, wherein the first and the second fixed contact <NUM>, <NUM> are arranged at the outer ends of the massive loop. Short bolts made of copper going through the cover <NUM> or housing of the switching device <NUM> are directly connected to the massive loop inside of the switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM>. When opening the fixed and movable contacts <NUM> to <NUM> in the case of a short-circuit, a strong magnetic force is generated by the dynamic field of the current loop which has an effect on the two generated arcs <NUM>, <NUM>. The two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> are driven via the arc runners <NUM> to <NUM> that may be connected e.g. to the ends of the contact bridge <NUM> into the direction of the two arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM> independent from the direction of the load current I.

In a short-circuit case the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> are separated in several partial arcs when running in the arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM> caused by the dynamic blow field effect. The voltages of the partial arcs are a function of the number of the splitter plates <NUM>. For each arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM> the voltages of the partial arcs are summed to a total voltage ULK. The total voltage across the complete switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> obtains the value of <NUM> · ULK corresponding to the Kirchhoff mesh rule. When this total voltage, or alternatively also a voltage across a single arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM>, is larger than the driving voltage, the arc <NUM>, <NUM> is extinguished and the load current I is interrupted.

Advantageously, the switching device <NUM> comprises the second switching chamber <NUM> with an identical structure to separate currents of particularly high voltages. The second switching chamber <NUM> is electrically connected in series to the first switching chamber <NUM>. The further contact bridge <NUM>' of the second switching chamber <NUM> is synchronized with the contact bridge <NUM> of the first switching chamber <NUM> via the magnetic drive assembly <NUM>. The serial coupling of the two switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> is realized via conducting connections with sufficient cross-section between the two terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM>' of the two switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> that are arranged in the vicinity. In the case of a short-circuit, four arcs <NUM>, <NUM> are formed which are each driven into an arc distinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>' by the dynamic blowout force F. The total arc voltage of this switching device <NUM> is doubled and amounts to four times ULK thus increasing the ability for extinguishing arcs <NUM>, <NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> with two serially coupled identical switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> has another behavior when switching DC lower currents up to smaller overcurrents currents. In this case the magnetic field generated from the effective permanent magnet systems <NUM>, <NUM>' having permanent magnets <NUM>, <NUM>' in the two switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> dominates. The permanent magnet systems <NUM>, <NUM>' are oriented in such a way that the two arcs in one of the two switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> are driven via the runners <NUM> to <NUM> in the direction of the two arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>' depending on the direction of the load current I, wherein the two arcs of the other switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> are moving in the opposite direction to each other.

An arc barrier or barrier <NUM> is arranged in the middle of the contact bridge <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> is realized as a plate. The barrier <NUM> is fixed in the direction of the switching movement. The barrier <NUM> is realized by a temperature-insensitive isolating material. Thus, the barrier <NUM> is configured to inhibit a short-circuit of the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM>. The barrier <NUM> is configured such that the contact bridge <NUM> is mounted in the middle of the barrier <NUM>.

The contact spring <NUM> is also inserted therein. The pin <NUM> provides safe guiding and the contact spring <NUM> provides the adequate contact force of the contact bridge <NUM> during the switching procedures using a guiding part with a fixating means. The guiding part is arranged between one side of the contact spring <NUM> and the contact bridge <NUM>. Moreover, the contact spring <NUM> provides the necessary contacting force in the case of switching-on procedure. The barrier <NUM> is coupled in the direction of the magnetic drive assembly <NUM> via the contact bridge carrier <NUM> of the contact bridge <NUM> to the armature <NUM>. In the case of a regular switching-off procedure, the contact bridge <NUM> moves together with the barrier <NUM> in the direction of the switching-off position. An arc going in the direction of the middle of the contact bridge <NUM> cannot form a base point on the other side of the barrier <NUM> due to the force fit connection and is prevented from a further movement in the direction of the second arc <NUM>. Thus, a short-circuit of the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> is inhibited.

The situation in case of an overcurrent or a short-circuit with a comparably low short-circuit power is different. In this case, in the phase immediately after opening of the contacts, first the dynamic magnetic field generated by the terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM> and the contact bridge <NUM> dominates such that arcs <NUM>, <NUM> of the two switching chambers <NUM>, <NUM> move in the direction of the corresponding arc extinguishing device <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>'. The level of the load current I that flows through the contact bridge <NUM> is reduced by the reduction of the arc energy that is realized by the entrance of the arcs in the arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>'. Correspondingly, the level of the dynamic blow field is reduced. This results in an increase of the influence of the permanent magnetic field on the arcs <NUM>, <NUM>. This may result in one switching chamber <NUM>, <NUM> that in a phase of decreasing levels of the load current I, the direction of movement of the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> which are moving in the direction of the arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>', <NUM>' at the start is reversed and the arcs <NUM>, <NUM> are moving in the direction towards each other and thus in the direction of the barrier <NUM>.

A short-circuit of the two arcs <NUM>, <NUM> can be effectively inhibited by the barrier <NUM> also in the case of a short-circuit current that is higher than the dynamic lift-off limit of the switching device <NUM>. In this case the opening movement of the contact bridge <NUM> generated by the dynamic Lorentz force realizes a two-dimensional pressure of the back side of the contact bridge <NUM> on the barrier <NUM> such that a movement of an arc <NUM>, <NUM> across the barrier <NUM> is inhibited during the lift-off phase also on a back side of the contact bridge <NUM> in that the barrier <NUM> and the contact bridge carrier <NUM> have freedom of movement in this direction and independent of the position of the bridge <NUM>.

The barrier <NUM> can be implemented such that the barrier <NUM> is an extension or elongation of the contact bridge carrier <NUM> in the direction of the switching movement. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> and the barrier <NUM> can be realized as one piece or one part. The switching device <NUM> is constructively implemented such that a two-dimensional coupling of the complete range of the contact bridge <NUM> is performed to an isolating material of the barrier <NUM> in the case of an opening movement of the contact bridge <NUM>, in the case of nominal currents and in the case of a dynamic lift-off generated by a short current.

According to a typical application of the switching device <NUM>, the switching device <NUM> may have to withstand only a limited number of switching events at higher currents or at short-circuit currents. Thus, the ability for isolation of the barrier <NUM> is sufficient at an appropriately chosen isolating material for the limited number of switching events over the nominal current.

The switching device <NUM> has a high short-circuit switching performance. The switching device <NUM> is realized in a compact form which is suitable for the use in electric vehicles. In the case of conventional switching devices, the magnet core <NUM> is arranged at the bottom of the switching chamber <NUM> and is rigidly coupled to the switching chamber <NUM>. The moving magnet armature <NUM> may be completely arranged directly above the magnet core <NUM> and/or submerged in the magnet core <NUM>. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> carries the movable contact bridge <NUM>. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> is made from an isolating material. The bridge <NUM> is rigidly coupled to the armature <NUM> on the side of the armature <NUM> which is directed to the magnet core <NUM>.

In the magnet drive as shown in <FIG> and <FIG>, the armature <NUM> has a T-form. The movable armature <NUM> is arranged at the bottom of an enclosure. The magnet core <NUM> has a C-form. The magnet core <NUM> is arranged directly above in the direction of the switching chamber <NUM> and is rigidly coupled to the enclosure of the drive. The contact bridge carrier <NUM> is not completely fixed out of the magnet drive at the upper side of the armature <NUM> which faces the switching chamber <NUM>. The connection to the armature <NUM> is achieved along the outer sides of the longitudinal arm of the armature <NUM>. Thus, the lower part is dropped on the level of the magnet core <NUM> such that the complete arrangement of the magnet drive uses less area than a conventional magnet drive, resulting in a very compact realization of the switching device <NUM> in the direction of the switching.

The switching device <NUM> is realized as a remote control switching device. The switching device <NUM> is configured for conducting and switching of bidirectional load currents I and bidirectional over-currents. The load currents I may be higher than <NUM> A. The over-currents may be e.g. short-circuit currents. The switching device <NUM> is realized for a high number of switching events under load, wherein the number may be higher than <NUM>,<NUM>. Alternatively, the number may be higher than <NUM>,<NUM> or <NUM>,<NUM>.

The switching device <NUM> is fabricated in a space-effective manner. The switching device <NUM> comprises terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM> evenly arranged with a front side of the cover <NUM>, which head into the switching chamber <NUM> and which are arranged in a U-form inside the switching chamber <NUM>. Moreover, the switching device <NUM> comprises a movable contact bridge <NUM> arranged below the terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM>. Additionally, the switching device <NUM> comprises an efficient arc driver and extinguishing arrangement having arc runners <NUM> to <NUM> at the end of the fixed and the movable contacts <NUM> to <NUM> and arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM> attached to these parts. The arc extinguishing devices <NUM>, <NUM> are realized as deionization extinguishing device, abbreviated as Deion extinguishing device. Additionally, the switching device <NUM> comprises a U-form permanent magnetic arc driver arrangement enclosing said arrangement for generation of an efficient dynamic magnetic blowout field in the short-circuit case as well as for a quick arc movement and extinguishing in the case of a nominal current and a short-circuit current.

The contact bridge <NUM> and the first and second terminal contacts <NUM>, <NUM> have a short length for limiting the current heat when carrying high nominal currents.

The switching device <NUM> comprises the barrier <NUM> made of an isolating material enclosing the movable contact bridge <NUM> at the middle of the contact bridge <NUM> for preventing short-circuits of two arcs <NUM>, <NUM>.

The contact bridge carrier <NUM> for the contact bridge <NUM> is guided parallel to the armature <NUM> and is realized in space-saving manner.

Two, or more than two, identical or nearly identical switching chambers <NUM> to <NUM> are arranged in a parallel arrangement in a modular concept which are either connected in series to each other for switching DC currents with a high nominal voltage or which are configured for the parallel conducting and switching of several DC load currents I.

The switching device <NUM> realizes a very short switching-off time for quickly switching-off short-circuit currents using, for example, a conventional electromagnetic drive with an electronic fast de-excitation or fast discharge. A time between the signal for switched-off up to the complete opening of the contacts may be less than <NUM> milliseconds. Alternatively, the time is less than <NUM> milliseconds. Alternatively, the time is less than <NUM> millisecond. The electromagnetic drive has a reduced mass. The armature <NUM> of this contact bridge <NUM> and the contact bridge carrier <NUM> contribute to the mass. The switching device <NUM> shows a high contact pressure force and a high rejection force. The magnet circuit realizes a configuration that has a low eddy current by using bundled sheet metal and is therefore suitable for rapid remagnetization. The quick field discharge can be realized without an external auxiliary energy source.

Claim 1:
A switching device, comprising
- a first terminal contact (<NUM>),
- a first fixed contact (<NUM>) arranged at the first terminal contact (<NUM>),
- a contact bridge (<NUM>),
- a first movable contact (<NUM>) arranged at the contact bridge (<NUM>),
- a second terminal contact (<NUM>),
- a second fixed contact (<NUM>) arranged at the second terminal contact (<NUM>),
- a second movable contact (<NUM>) arranged at the contact bridge (<NUM>), and
- a magnetic drive assembly (<NUM>) which comprises a coil (<NUM>) and an armature (<NUM>),
wherein the armature (<NUM>) is coupled to the contact bridge (<NUM>),
wherein the first fixed contact (<NUM>) is in contact to the first movable contact (<NUM>) in a switched-on state of the switching device (<NUM>),
wherein the first fixed contact (<NUM>) is free of contact to the first movable contact (<NUM>) in a switched-off state of the switching device (<NUM>),
wherein the second fixed contact (<NUM>) is in contact to the second movable contact (<NUM>) in the switched-on state of the switching device (<NUM>),
wherein the second fixed contact (<NUM>) is free of contact to the second movable contact (<NUM>) in the switched-off state of the switching device (<NUM>), and
wherein the first terminal contact (<NUM>) has a bended form such that a load current (I) that flows through the first terminal contact (<NUM>), the first fixed contact (<NUM>), the first movable contact (<NUM>) and the contact bridge (<NUM>) has a U-formed path in the switched-on state,
wherein the switching device (<NUM>) comprises a contact bridge carrier (<NUM>) which is arranged at the contact bridge (<NUM>) and comprises a barrier (<NUM>),
wherein the barrier (<NUM>) is located between the first and the second terminal contact (<NUM>, <NUM>), and
wherein the switching device (<NUM>) is realized as a circuit breaker,
characterized in
that the contact bridge carrier (<NUM>) is rigidly attached to the contact bridge (<NUM>),
wherein the armature (<NUM>) is coupled via a contact spring (<NUM>) to the contact bridge carrier (<NUM>) and thus to the contact bridge (<NUM>), and
wherein the barrier (<NUM>) encloses the contact bridge (<NUM>) at the middle of the contact bridge (<NUM>).