Electrical Switchgear Patents (Class 361/605)
  • Patent number: 8717745
    Abstract: The method of the invention makes it possible to cool electrical switchgear operating at medium voltage and high current, such as a circuit breaker. The method consists in inserting serially two heat pipes (11) inside said switchgear, putting a first end (11A) of the first heat pipe (11) in the hot portion of the hot portions (10A, 10C) of the circuit breaker (10) and a second end (11B) of the first heat pipe (11) in a portion that is cooler (10A) of the hot portions (10A, 10C). The other heat pipe (11) is put between the cooler of the hot portions (10A) and a cooler part of the circuit breaker (10). A particular application is provided for medium-voltage, high-current circuit breakers.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 25, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 6, 2014
    Assignee: Alstom Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Denis Frigiere, Didier Rodrigues, Jean-Marc Willieme, Frank Jacquier
  • Publication number: 20140104758
    Abstract: A switching device for electric power distribution, includes a breaker that is electrically connectable to a conductor, and an electrically conductive housing to which the breaker is mounted. The device provides a current path between the breaker and the conductor. The housing houses at least one guiding member for operating the breaker and a first part of the current path, the first part being electrically connected to the breaker. The device also includes a switch for electrically connecting the breaker to the conductor, the switch having a switch element movable to a first position where the switch element is connected to the first part and the conductor, movable to a second position where the switch element is disconnected from the conductor and connected to the first part and a grounded element, and movable to a third position where the switch element is disconnected from the conductor and the grounded element.
    Type: Application
    Filed: December 16, 2013
    Publication date: April 17, 2014
    Inventors: Tom-Rune Bjortuft, Thor Endre, Paal Kristian Skryten, Havard Hadland, John-Anders Tveten, Stanley Lohne
  • Patent number: 8681482
    Abstract: This disclosure describes examples of an apparatus to enclose components of a switching assembly of an automatic transfer switch. In one embodiment, the apparatus, or arc chamber cover, has a housing made of material with optical properties that permit observation of the interior of the housing. A mounting assembly couples to the housing. The mounting assembly secures the apparatus to the automatic transfer switch. In one example, the mounting assembly comprises feet comprising a material with mechanical properties that can withstand pressure and other forces inside of the interior chamber. The apparatus also includes one or more baffles to control the flow of gasses and control electric arcs within the switching assembly.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 19, 2012
    Date of Patent: March 25, 2014
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Suresh Srikantaiah, Arthur Michael Evans, Sudarshan Allada, Pravin Pralhad Kulkarni
  • Publication number: 20140036418
    Abstract: The invention relates to a power switch cabinet of a device for producing electric energy. The technical object of obtaining optimum scalability and cooling of a power switch cabinet despite little space being required is achieved according to the invention in that the power switch cabinet has a machine connection, a power module and a mains connection, wherein the power module has a machine converter, a mains converter, a direct voltage intermediate circuit and a chopper, and the arrangement of the components substantially corresponds to the direction of the power flow.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Woodward Kempen GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Eichler, Hans-Georg Nowak, Marianne Hitpaß
  • Publication number: 20140035289
    Abstract: The invention relates to a switch cabinet arrangement of a device for generating electrical energy, wherein the switch cabinet arrangement comprises at least two separate power switch cabinets. The technical object of achieving an optimum scalability of devices for generating electrical energy with at the same time a simple installation and maintenance of the power switch cabinets despite a small available installation space, is achieved according to the invention in that the power switch cabinets respectively comprise a machine connection, a power module, a mains connection and a decentralised control unit, wherein the power module comprises a machine converter, a mains converter, a direct voltage intermediate circuit and a chopper, and wherein the power switch cabinets are electrically connected in parallel to one another via the machine connection and the mains connection.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 3, 2013
    Publication date: February 6, 2014
    Applicant: Woodward Kempen GmbH
    Inventors: Markus Eichler, Hans-Georg Nowak, Marianne Hitpaß
  • Publication number: 20140029167
    Abstract: The invention relates to an accessory device assembly for a low or medium voltage switching device. The accessory device assembly comprises at least a first accessory device comprising a first external housing, first electrical connection means for electrical connection with said switching device, second electrical connection means for electrical connection with outside equipment, third electrical connection means for electrical connection with a second accessory device, first mechanical connection means for mechanical connection with said second accessory device and second mechanical connection means for mechanical connection with said switching device.
    Type: Application
    Filed: May 7, 2013
    Publication date: January 30, 2014
    Applicant: ABB S.p.A.
    Inventor: ABB S.p.A.
  • Publication number: 20140002961
    Abstract: A housing of a switchgear includes: a framework formed by joining vertical frames to depth directional frames and width directional frames, the vertical frames being arranged in a standing condition at four corners of a cuboid shape; at least a left and right pair of intermediate vertical frames each provided at an intermediate portion in the depth direction; and steel partition plates fixed over the whole in the vertical direction of the intermediate vertical frames, the partition plates being provided for separating the front and the back of the intermediate vertical frames. Then, the depth directional frame on the floor side is formed with a fixing hole near a lower portion of the intermediate vertical frame, the fixing hole being provided for fixing the housing to a foundation surface.
    Type: Application
    Filed: August 17, 2011
    Publication date: January 2, 2014
    Applicant: Mitsubishi Electric Corporation
    Inventors: Hirotsugu Kobayashi, Kazufumi Kondo, Ryozo Hosoya
  • Publication number: 20130335887
    Abstract: A resistor for suppressing magnetizing inrush current includes a container made of an insulating material and at least one resistive element housed in the container, the resistive element being connected to two bushings provided at the container, the outer surface of the container being coated with a conductive paint, and the paint being connected to the ground, thereby being able to be located between a cable and a switch, and being able to fix the outer surface thereof to a ground voltage level so that human contact safety is not impaired.
    Type: Application
    Filed: June 12, 2013
    Publication date: December 19, 2013
    Inventors: Ayumu MORITA, Naoya OKADA, Akitaka SHIINA, Kenji TSUCHIYA, Mitsuaki YAMAMOTO, Hiroaki MORII, Takao YANAGISAWA
  • Patent number: 8598484
    Abstract: An enclosure is provided for use with a circuit protection system having at least one exhaust duct configured to route exhaust gases out of the circuit protection system. The enclosure includes a first barrier coupled to the circuit protection system, a second barrier coupled to the circuit protection system, and a top wall coupled to the first barrier and the second barrier. The first barrier and the second barrier define an exhaust plenum coupled in flow communication with the at least one exhaust duct. A vent extends through the top wall and is coupled in flow communication with the exhaust plenum to route the exhaust gases out of the enclosure.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: December 3, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Aaron Engel, Daniel Edward Delfino, Michael Lafond
  • Patent number: 8576545
    Abstract: A switchgear includes a chassis which is partitioned by metal earthed plates and includes a bus bar section located at a central portion, a switch section located below the bus bar section, a cable section located at a rear surface side, and a control section located at a front surface side; an air-insulated earthed disconnecting switch provided in the switch section; and a manipulating device. The switch section is separable from the chassis, and is configured as a case having a semi-closed structure which allows air to pass therethrough but prevents particles of oil and water from passing therethrough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 15, 2011
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Keiichi Takahashi, Kenji Tsuchiya, Ayumu Morita, Masato Kobayashi, Daisuke Sugai
  • Patent number: 8576548
    Abstract: A vehicle is provided that includes a shelter thereon that includes electronics therein. The shelter includes ports on the exterior thereof that permit data and power exchange between the vehicle and another similarly configured vehicle. The vehicle further includes dedicated wiring raceways that separate wiring having different uses.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: November 5, 2013
    Assignee: The United States of America as represented by the Secretary of the Navy
    Inventors: Christopher Clifton, James M. Pruett, David Myers, Philip S. Mitchell, Dean Lee Jones
  • Patent number: 8553394
    Abstract: Embodiments provide a circuit breaker racking apparatus having a frame configured to couple to a switchgear section configured to receive a circuit breaker; a coupling operable to couple to a racking handle of the circuit breaker to be racked to or from the switchgear section; and a drive member coupled to the coupling and remotely operable to rotate the coupling and racking handle to accomplish racking of the circuit breaker. System and method aspects are provided, as are other aspects.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Thomas W. Hawkins, Jason A. Green, Benjamin Eric Heisey
  • Patent number: 8553395
    Abstract: A motor control center comprises a plurality of bays in which switchgear components, circuit protective components, automation components and power electronic components are disposed for driving motors and other loads. Network optical conductors are routed through one or more wireways adjacent to the bays. Distribution nodes are coupled to the conductors and are interconnected with respective network terminals within the bays. Components within individual bays for which EtherNet and/or Internet connectivity is desired are coupled to the network terminals. The conductors may comprise plastic optical fibers and may be designed to operate in the relatively high voltage environment of the motor control center bays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2012
    Date of Patent: October 8, 2013
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Brian Blodorn, David Lee Jensen
  • Publication number: 20130258556
    Abstract: A switch according to the invention comprises a enclosure that is solid insulated and includes an electric power source side bushing portion, an electric load side bushing portion, and an accommodation body portion having air filled therein; a main circuit switch installed, for each pole, and having a vacuum interrupter that switches an electric power circuit by receiving a switching driving force from a common actuator; and an earth switch installed including a first fixed contactor to be earthed; a second fixed contactor electrically connected to the electric power source side connection conductor; and a movable blade connected to the common actuator, and movable to a first position for contacting the first fixed contactor and to a second position for contacting the second fixed contactor, by the switching driving force from the common actuator.
    Type: Application
    Filed: March 26, 2013
    Publication date: October 3, 2013
    Applicant: LSIS CO., LTD.
    Inventors: Jae Gul LEE, Sang Hyub YOON, Dong Hwan JUNG, Young KIM
  • Patent number: 8508917
    Abstract: A sealed electrical enclosure for use in hazardous locations for enclosing circuit breakers having a bottom housing and a top housing with a labyrinth joint, a serrated joint, or combination of both being formed therebetween, a first aperture extending through a first end wall of the bottom housing and positioned adjacent a first contact terminal of a first circuit breaker, the first aperture further including a first metal bus extending therethrough and in electrical contact with the first contact terminal, and a second aperture extending through a second end wall of the bottom housing and positioned adjacent a second contact terminal of the first circuit breaker, the second aperture further including a second metal bus extending therethrough and in electrical contact with the second contact terminal, and a first actuating mechanism positioned on the top housing adapted for manipulating a switch of the first circuit breaker.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 24, 2011
    Date of Patent: August 13, 2013
    Assignee: EGS Electrical Group, LLC
    Inventors: Vilian Rus, Yogesh Kanole, Vijay Nadgeri
  • Patent number: 8492662
    Abstract: Arc resistant enclosures for dry-type transformers. More particularly, transformer enclosures having one or more arc-resistant features, including arc channels, arc fault dampers, and arc fault plenums, and methods for providing same.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 28, 2011
    Date of Patent: July 23, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Inc.
    Inventors: Robert C. Ballard, Nathan T. Sigman, Edgar A. Wimmer, Jr., Rafael Gutierrez, Jr.
  • Patent number: 8482903
    Abstract: A front accessible metal clad switchgear assembly comprising multiple compartments defined within an electrical enclosure is provided. The compartments interchangeably accommodate electrical components, for example, current transformers, a circuit breaker, a control power transformer, an epoxy encapsulated potential transformer, etc., and bus bars in predetermined positions for allowing front access to the electrical components and bus bars. The front accessible switchgear assembly further comprises a plenum chamber rearwardly positioned in the electrical enclosure and in communication with the compartments to provide an exit path for releasing pressure and gases. A mounting block assembly is positioned in one or more of the compartments for mounting, enclosing, and providing front access to the electrical components. The mounting block assembly is configured to reduce temperature rise in the compartments.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 9, 2013
    Assignee: ABD El and Larson Holdings LLC
    Inventors: Predrag Milovac, Ashok BabuRao Kulkarni, Edward Joseph Rossi, Dennis Wayne Sapp
  • Patent number: 8456864
    Abstract: The present description is directed to small form-factor input devices operative to be coupled to an electronic device using a cable. For example, in some embodiments, an input device is described for providing one or more inputs to an electrical device, wherein the input device comprises a circuit board having first and second sides; a first electrical switch disposed on the first side of the circuit board; a second electrical switch disposed on the first side of the circuit board; a third electrical switch disposed on the second side of the circuit board; a frame defining a periphery, wherein the circuit board is maintained within the periphery of the frame; top and bottom shells that house the circuit board, the top shell placed over the first side of the circuit board, and the bottom shell placed over the second side of the circuit board; and at least one clip coupled to each one of the top shell and the bottom shell, wherein the at least one clip is operative to engage the frame.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 3, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Apple Inc.
    Inventors: Kurt Stiehl, Michelle Yu, Wilhelmus M. C. Crooijmans, Cameron Frazier
  • Patent number: 8456806
    Abstract: An electrical panelboard enclosure includes an enclosure housing with an interior equipment chamber accessible by way of a service entrance door. A service panel is adapted for connection to a main power source in order to receive main power therefrom. A power supply is operatively connected to receive main power from the service panel and deliver it to a load. The power supply is also adapted for connection to a backup power source in order to receive backup power therefrom and deliver it to the load in the event of a main power cutoff. A load disconnector is operatively connected between the power supply and the load. The load disconnector is manually operable to disconnect the load from the power supply to prevent the power supply from delivering either main or backup power to the load.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 8, 2011
    Date of Patent: June 4, 2013
    Assignee: Diversified Control, Inc.
    Inventors: Michael R. Cosley, Aron J. King, David H. Halik
  • Patent number: 8436702
    Abstract: There is provided an electromagnetic contactor unit capable of firmly connecting electromagnetic contactors without influencing outer dimensions when the electromagnetic contactors are connected to each other. The electromagnetic contactor unit connected at least two juxtaposed electromagnetic contactors (2a, 2b) with a connection piece (42). The electromagnetic contactor includes an attachment hole (41a) formed in each corner of an attachment plate portion, a piece accommodation concave portion (43) fitting a half portion of the connection piece formed above the attachment hole and accommodating within an outer dimension, and is opened to a connection surface with the adjacent electromagnetic contactor, and a locking portion (44) locking the connection piece formed in the piece accommodation concave portion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 13, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: Fuji Electric FA Components & Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Yasuhiro Naka, Koji Okubo, Kouetsu Takaya, Kenji Suzuki
  • Patent number: 8437118
    Abstract: The subject of the invention is an electric power switchgear, an insulating radiator, and a method for installing the radiator in an electric power switchgear, and in particular in a medium or high voltage switchgear. The electric power switchgear comprising working elements placed in the housing and connected with busbars and branches, and cooled with air, is characterized in that it contains at least one insulating radiator made of thermoplastic material of increased thermal conductivity ??2 W/mK, which is placed in the electric field of the switchgear and which is connected by a non-permanent fastening to at least one busbar or/and at least one branch. The insulating radiator designed for the switchgear is an injection molding including a base plate to whose top face a system of heat evacuating elements of identical or diverse shape is attached, and to its side surfaces elastic assembly catches are fixed.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Date of Patent: May 7, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Research Ltd
    Inventors: Krzysztof Kasza, Lukasz Malinowski, Robert Sekula
  • Patent number: 8432666
    Abstract: A method of making a panel for a switchgear cabinet is provided. In accordance with the method one or more base plates, a plurality of main cover plates of different types and a plurality of auxiliary cover plates of different types are provided. One or more main cover plates and one or more auxiliary cover plates are selected and mounted to the base plate. One or more electrical devices are mounted to at least one of the selected main cover plate and the selected auxiliary cover plate.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: November 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: April 30, 2013
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventor: Michael G. Urmson
  • Patent number: 8411418
    Abstract: The vacuum insulated switchgear includes: a housing enclosing a control compartment, a switch compartment, and a busbar compartment, each of the three compartments being partitioned by a metallic earthing plate; a first busbar and second busbar extended from an adjacent panel, in the busbar compartment; and a first busbar-connecting bushing and second busbar-connecting bushing making the first and second busbars connectible/disconnectible; a double-breaking three position vacuum switch, two sets of earthing switches, the first busbar-connecting bushing, and the second busbar-connecting bushing being integrally molded to form a switch provided on an electrical phase-by phase basis independently, wherein the switches for three phases are arranged in order side by side in the housing.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 10, 2010
    Date of Patent: April 2, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shuichi Kikukawa, Kenji Tsuchiya, Yuuko Kajiyama, Daisuke Sugai
  • Patent number: 8383969
    Abstract: A draw-out type circuit breaker apparatus is provided and includes a base from which a circuit breaker is selectively dismounted and moved along a first portion of a dismounting path into a disconnected position, a plate, fixed to the base, which is configured to guide the movement of the circuit breaker along the dismounting path, and a toggle link, coupled to the plate and biased to remain in a locking position, which is configured to block the circuit breaker from moving along the dismounting path beyond the disconnected position while the toggle link remains in the locking position, and to cause the circuit breaker to freely move from the disconnected position and along a second further portion of the dismounting path upon a temporary defeat of the bias thereof.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 26, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 26, 2013
    Assignee: General Electric Company
    Inventors: Mahadeva Mittu, Adam Skrudlik, Tomasz Ignasiak, Lars Pommerencke
  • Patent number: 8379373
    Abstract: A vacuum insulated switchgear is arranged as a panel for a power substation with the other or the others in parallel rows. the vacuum insulated switchgear comprises a housing with a switch section, a bus section, a cable section, and a control section which are partitioned by earthed metal plates respectively. The vacuum insulated switchgear comprises: a connection member provided in each bus connecting part in the bus section of the each panel and enabling each bus to be connected and disconnected; and a bus recovery member which is detachably connected between the connection members of faultless panels adjacent to a faulty panel when the faulty panel occurred.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 29, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 19, 2013
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Shuichi Kikukawa, Kenji Tsuchiya, Masato Kobayashi
  • Publication number: 20130037253
    Abstract: The invention relates to a method for regulating a cooling device fitted in or to a switchgear cabinet, by means of a regulating device, wherein the temperature of the switchgear cabinet interior air is detected and an interior fan assigned thereto for generating an interior air flow through an evaporator and providing cooling air is switched on if the detected temperature of the switchgear cabinet interior air exceeds an upper setpoint temperature, and is switched off if the detected temperature falls below a lower setpoint temperature, and the invention relates to an apparatus for carrying out the method.
    Type: Application
    Filed: February 9, 2011
    Publication date: February 14, 2013
    Applicant: RITTAL GMBH & CO KG
    Inventors: Ralf Schneider, Michael Scholl, Steffen Wagner, Michael Maage
  • Patent number: 8355243
    Abstract: A closed door circuit breaker racking extension assembly is provided which enables a circuit breaker contained within a cell of a switchgear enclosure to be racked-in or racked-out without opening the cell door and without fear of explosive gases and debris being discharged from the cell through the extension assembly of this invention in the event of an arc-fault explosion.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: January 15, 2013
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventor: Michael L. Niedzwiecki
  • Publication number: 20120293920
    Abstract: A system having electrical equipment integrated on a structure is provided. The system includes at least one electrical equipment located at a spaced apart relationship and mounted on at least one structure. A method is provided for isolation of electrical equipment. The method includes opening and closing a contact by engaging or disengaging one or more terminals of the electrical equipment correspondingly with a supply line or a distribution line by a mechanism for isolation. The mechanism can be a handle or a moving mechanism which is associated with a movement in a vertical direction or horizontal direction or with a movement that provides isolation.
    Type: Application
    Filed: April 20, 2012
    Publication date: November 22, 2012
    Applicant: ABB TECHNOLOGY LTD
    Inventors: Dukkaiappan Subbaiahthever, Ramesh Viswanathan, Balachandra Narayan Varade, Maheswaran Chandrasekaran, Satish Baburao Bhalerao, Kishor Bhikaji Wadhe
  • Patent number: 8295034
    Abstract: An electric power distribution arrangement having an electric conductor for carrying a high voltage, a first pair of bodies provided on opposite sides of the conductor as seen in a first direction cross-wise to a longitudinal axis of the conductor, and a second pair of bodies provided on opposite sides of the conductor as seen in a second direction cross-wise to the longitudinal axis. The bodies of the first and second pair of bodies are arranged to be electrically disconnected from the conductor, and the spacing between the bodies of the first pair is larger than the spacing between the bodies of the second pair. At least one of the bodies of at least one of the first and second pair comprises a second current conductor, and at least one of the bodies of at least one of the first and second pair comprises a wall element of an encapsulation inside which the conductor is arranged.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 27, 2011
    Date of Patent: October 23, 2012
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Paal Kristian Skryten, Tom-Rune Bjortuft, Magne Runde, Thor Endre
  • Patent number: 8274782
    Abstract: A motor control center comprises a plurality of bays in which switchgear components, circuit protective components, automation components and power electronic components are disposed for driving motors and other loads. Network optical conductors are routed through one or more wireways adjacent to the bays. Distribution nodes are coupled to the conductors and are interconnected with respective network terminals within the bays. Components within individual bays for which EtherNet and/or Internet connectivity is desired are coupled to the network terminals. The conductors may comprise plastic optical fibers and may be designed to operate in the relatively high voltage environment of the motor control center bays.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2010
    Date of Patent: September 25, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: Keith Brian Blodorn, David Lee Jensen
  • Patent number: 8248760
    Abstract: A switch arrangement for an electrical switchgear comprising a first bus, a second bus and a load connection. The switch arrangement comprises a breaker; wherein said breaker is moveable in said switchgear between a first position and a second position, such that in use, when said breaker is in said first position and closed it electrically connects said first bus to said load connection, and when said breaker is in said second position and closed it electrically connects said second electrical bus to said load connection, with said first electrical bus disconnected from said load connection.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 7, 2010
    Date of Patent: August 21, 2012
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Michael H. Abrahamsen, Jon C. Beaver, Robert Yanniello
  • Patent number: 8242395
    Abstract: The present invention relates generally to a switchgear apparatus. More particularly, the invention encompasses a circuit breaker compartment arc flash venting system for a switchgear apparatus. The present invention also relates to enclosures for switchgear, panel boards, circuit breakers, and more particularly to an enclosure for low voltage switchgear and switchboard assemblies. The enclosure can be a walk-in type enclosure or a non-walk-in type enclosure. This invention further provides a method and apparatus for channeling plasma (hot arc gasses) that are generated from an arc. The circuit breaker compartment arc flash venting system is an integral part of an arc resistant switchgear assembly. The arc flash venting system works in conjunction with the bus insulation and ventilation systems in the switchgear apparatus to channel hot arc gasses (plasma) from a breaker compartment in the event of an internal arcing fault in the breaker compartment.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: January 30, 2009
    Date of Patent: August 14, 2012
    Assignee: Siemens Industry, Inc.
    Inventors: Harry W. Josten, Keith Flowers, Rahul Rajvanshi
  • Patent number: 8232489
    Abstract: A switching device, in particular an automatic switch, a disconnecting switch or a contactor, installable according to different operating configurations and preferably for use in low voltage systems. The device comprises a case containing at least a pair of contacts, one or more accessory devices for controlling and/or setting the operation of the switching device and user interface means, capable of performing output and/or input functions relative to the accessory devices. These interface means comprise at least a display which shows information relative to the output and/or input functions according to a viewing direction. The switching device also comprises means to select the viewing direction which are operatively connected to the display. These selection means allow selection of the viewing direction on the display as a function of the installation configuration of the switching device.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: May 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: July 31, 2012
    Assignee: ABB S.p.A.
    Inventors: Giovanni Frassineti, Federico Gamba
  • Patent number: 8208243
    Abstract: One or more infrared transmitting ports are placed in the insulating housing of standard switchgear components to allow far infrared viewing of internal conductive components permitting earlier and more precise location of possible thermal failure through thermographic monitoring.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 30, 2008
    Date of Patent: June 26, 2012
    Assignee: Rockwell Automation Technologies, Inc.
    Inventors: David D. Brandt, David B. Jensen
  • Patent number: 8198557
    Abstract: An apparatus for preventing withdrawing and insertion of a carriage of a circuit breaker is disclosed. When a circuit breaker main body is inserted, an interlocking unit operates by interworking with the carriage withdrawing and inserting preventing apparatus, and while the circuit breaker is being closed, a withdrawal and insertion handle prevents a lead screw from being rotated by the interlocking unit. Thus, when the circuit breaker performs a closing operation, unnecessary withdrawing and inserting operation of the carriage is basically prevented to thus prevent various safety accidents, a contact resistance, a temperature increase, and damage to a device resulting from a breakdown.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: March 5, 2010
    Date of Patent: June 12, 2012
    Assignee: LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Jae Yong Lee, Hyun Jae Kim
  • Publication number: 20120127635
    Abstract: A modular pump control panel assembly consisting of multiple compartments arranged so as to allow service of each individual compartment without exposure to line voltages while still maintaining operation of the pumping system. The assembly includes a plurality of motor controller compartments each including a lockable handle operator that that is interlocked with its corresponding compartment door. The handle operators are mechanically connected to remote disconnecting devices via flexible cables or mechanical linkage. A key feature/distinction of this invention is that the disconnecting devices are not located in their corresponding motor controller compartments, so that when the handle operator is switched to the OFF position there are no components (e.g. disconnecting device and/or its supply conductors) within the motor controller compartment that remains energized by line voltage.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 18, 2010
    Publication date: May 24, 2012
    Inventor: Bruce William Grindeland
  • Patent number: 8183480
    Abstract: Disclosed is a withdrawable device of main circuit for a circuit breaker. A ring-shaped guide recess is formed at a central part of a transfer nut screw-coupled to a lead screw, and supporting surfaces are formed on side surfaces of the guide recess. And, rotation prevention pins are elastically supported by springs in a moving direction of the transfer nut, and are selectively locked, thereby allowing the transfer nut to perform an idle operation. Accordingly, a structure for an idle operation of the transfer nut is simplified, and the number of components is reduced. An axial load is attenuated to a plane-contact distributed load, not a point-contact concentrated load, thereby preventing damage of the components. Also, a vacuum circuit breaker has enhanced reliability of the idle operation at a run position and a test position.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: December 23, 2009
    Date of Patent: May 22, 2012
    Assignee: LS Industrial Systems Co., Ltd.
    Inventors: Hyun Jae Kim, Kil-Young Ahn
  • Publication number: 20120106033
    Abstract: The subject of the invention is an electric power switchgear, an insulating radiator, and a method for installing the radiator in an electric power switchgear, and in particular in a medium or high voltage switchgear. The electric power switchgear comprising working elements placed in the housing and connected with busbars and branches, and cooled with air, is characterised in that it contains at least one insulating radiator made of thermoplastic material of increased thermal conductivity ??2W/mK, which is placed in the electric field of the switchgear and which is connected by a non-permanent fastening to at least one busbar or/and at least one branch. The insulating radiator designed for the switchgear is an injection moulding including a base plate to whose top face a system of heat evacuating elements of identical or diverse shape is attached, and to its side surfaces elastic assembly catches are fixed.
    Type: Application
    Filed: July 8, 2010
    Publication date: May 3, 2012
    Inventors: Krzysztof Kasza, Lukasz Malinowski, Robert Sekula
  • Patent number: 8139345
    Abstract: A power operator for switchgear (1) for mains power distribution systems, where the switchgear comprises a closed cabinet (5) with an operating shaft protruding there from. The operating shaft is rotable at least between two positions and has a coupling part (2, 3). The operator comprises a housing (10), which is mountable on the external surface (4) of the switchgear housing, and a rotatable connection shaft (14) connected to an electric drive mechanism (11). It has a first coupling part to fit with the coupling part of the operating shaft in a longitudinal axial sliding and non-rotational interlocking manner. The coupling part of the connection shaft (14) is a separate interchangeable part (24, 24a) of the connection shaft attached thereto by non-rotational interlocking means. Further, it has an activation knob (16) extending from the housing (10) to operate the switch manually.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 31, 2007
    Date of Patent: March 20, 2012
    Assignee: Linak A/S
    Inventors: Bruno Christensen, Anders Lorenzen, Verner Smidt, Jens N. Paulsen, Glenn Smith
  • Publication number: 20120049519
    Abstract: In the case of a rotor of a generator of a wind power installation or of a wind energy installation having a pole wheel which rotates in a stator or around a stator and has a pole wheel housing (1, 9), the aim is to create a solution which provides a simplified assembly capability for switchgear cabinets to be installed in rotating components of a wind power installation, with the capability to reduce the assembly effort and to reduce the number and the mass of the rotating components to be arranged on the equipment tower of a wind power installation. This is achieved in that the blades of the wind rotor of the wind power installation or wind energy installation and the switchgear cabinets, which have the electrical control and/or switching elements of the associated blade control system (pitch system) can be arranged and/or are arranged on and/or at the pole wheel housing (1, 9) of the rotor.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Avantis Ltd.
    Inventors: Detlef Lange, Dieter Rupprich, Klaus Bodenstein
  • Publication number: 20120049518
    Abstract: In the case of a rotor of a generator of a wind power installation or of a wind energy installation having a pole wheel which rotates in a stator or around a stator and has a pole wheel housing (1, 9), the aim is to create a solution which provides a simplified assembly capability for switchgear cabinets to be installed in rotating components of a wind power installation, with the capability to reduce the assembly effort. This is achieved in that retaining surfaces and/or retaining areas (8) are formed in or at the pole wheel housing (1, 9) and switchgear cabinets having electrical control and/or switching elements, which are arranged therein and have components which carry out a switching movement to switch and/or break an electrically conductive connection, can be arranged and/or are arranged such that they also rotate thereon and/or therein.
    Type: Application
    Filed: November 19, 2009
    Publication date: March 1, 2012
    Applicant: Avantis Ltd
    Inventors: Klaus Bodenstein, Detlef Lange, Dieter Rupprich
  • Patent number: 8116070
    Abstract: The disclosure relates to a control and switchgear for a medium or high-voltage substation. In order to improve a generic control and switchgear by means of a given number of prefabricated wiring elements, the function-related wiring is combined in a uniform control device which is incorporated into a segment of the switchgear door and is provided with the operator panel on the outside and a series of interfaces on the inside.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 27, 2009
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Ralf Henke, Sven Wehrmann
  • Patent number: 8115123
    Abstract: A configurable circuit breaker is disclosed which is, for example, applicable for medium voltage range, with flexibility in configuration, based on the electrical and mechanical constraints. The circuit breaker can include multiple poles, which can be fitted on a shaft at desired positions, using clamping, dowelling, bolting or other types of connections. An epoxy frame can mount the circuit breaker on a truck horizontally or vertically, by mounting inserts and the clamping mechanism. Side sheets of the pole allow internal access. Flexible contacts and the vertical slots enable adjustability in the incoming and outgoing distances, as per design constraints. A tulip contact can be provided for mounting incoming/outgoing conductors. A common actuator can be mounted anywhere on the shaft, via the movable contact or on any of the poles, which are robust enough.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: August 16, 2010
    Date of Patent: February 14, 2012
    Assignee: ABB Technology Ltd
    Inventors: Shailendra Singh, Subbiahthever Dukkaiappan
  • Patent number: 8111502
    Abstract: An arrangement related to subsea electric power distributing AC-system and adapted for a subsea application. The arrangement is enclosed in a watertight casing. The casing exposes a main power input connection, adapted for watertight co-ordination with a first subsea cable and a main power output connection, adapted for a watertight co-ordination with a second subsea cable. The second subsea cable is adapted for a power supply to an AC-current and AC-voltage adapted device. The arrangement includes interconnected: a voltage regulator connected to the first cable, and a NO-load switching unit connected to the second cable, and a control unit. The control unit is adapted, in a first operative mode, to regulate the output AC-voltage from the voltage regulator towards and to zero, or at least almost to zero, and in a second subsequent operative mode, to bring the NO-load switching unit from an ON-position to an OFF-position or vice versa.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: July 2, 2008
    Date of Patent: February 7, 2012
    Assignee: Vetco Gray Scandinavia AS
    Inventor: Svend Rocke
  • Publication number: 20120008255
    Abstract: The invention relates to an encapsulation system for a medium or low voltage switchgear. The switchgear includes several live phase conductors, and an encapsulation system, wherein the encapsulation system includes inner single phase encapsulations of respective phase. The encapsulation system further includes a fault handling system for handling of faults by means of adjusting the impedance of the inner single phase encapsulations.
    Type: Application
    Filed: September 20, 2011
    Publication date: January 12, 2012
    Inventors: Magnus Ohrstrom, Henrik Breder
  • Publication number: 20110299226
    Abstract: A front accessible metal clad switchgear assembly comprising multiple compartments defined within an electrical enclosure is provided. The compartments interchangeably accommodate electrical components, for example, current transformers, a circuit breaker, a control power transformer, an epoxy encapsulated potential transformer, etc., and bus bars in predetermined positions for allowing front access to the electrical components and bus bars. The front accessible switchgear assembly further comprises a plenum chamber rearwardly positioned in the electrical enclosure and in communication with the compartments to provide an exit path for releasing pressure and gases. A mounting block assembly is positioned in one or more of the compartments for mounting, enclosing, and providing front access to the electrical components. The mounting block assembly is configured to reduce temperature rise in the compartments.
    Type: Application
    Filed: October 14, 2010
    Publication date: December 8, 2011
    Inventors: Predrag Milovac, Ashok BabuRao Kulkarni, Edward Joseph Rossi, Dennis Wayne Sapp
  • Patent number: 8063323
    Abstract: A circuit breaker replacement tool made of a cart with a base plate, wherein the base plate has at least two wheels. The cart has a right side and a left side with both sides connected on one end to the base plate. A height adjustable support arm holds a main linear actuator and an interlocking linear actuator for opening interlocks and installing or removing circuit breakers from circuit breaker cabinets.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: October 13, 2008
    Date of Patent: November 22, 2011
    Inventor: Finley L. Ledbetter
  • Patent number: 8018317
    Abstract: The invention relates to a fuse system for a switchgear assembly, especially for a medium voltage switchgear assembly. The fuse system comprises a plurality of fuses which correspond to the number of phases, every fuse having a tripping bar that projects from the face of the fuse under the effect of the force of a spring when the fuse comes into action. A sealing body, with a spring arrangement interposed, pushes a sealing head into the interior of a receptacle receiving the fuse. A two-armed lever is received on the sealing head, one arm covering a tripping mechanism which actuates a power switch.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: April 18, 2006
    Date of Patent: September 13, 2011
    Assignee: ABB Technology AG
    Inventors: Lars-Johan Lindqvist, Ole Granhaug, Jan-Henrik Kuhlefelt
  • Patent number: 7983023
    Abstract: Earthing equipment for a switchgear is comprised of a movable carrying cart, a switch portion, a manipulating portion, and a voltage detecting device. The earthing equipment is provided with: an upper conductor connected to any one of the movable electrode and the stationary electrode; a lower conductor connected to the other of the movable electrode and the stationary electrode, an earthing wire connecting the lower conductor to a terminal used for earthing of the switchgear; and an adaptor conductor being selectively connected to either a disconnection portion at a bus bar side or a disconnection portion at a cable side of the switchgear and is permitted to be selectively replaced on either upper or lower face of the upper conductor.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: February 17, 2010
    Date of Patent: July 19, 2011
    Assignee: Hitachi, Ltd.
    Inventors: Kenichi Shoda, Takuya Kurogi, Kenji Tsuchiya, Takumi Ishikawa, Naoki Nakatsugawa
  • Patent number: 7952042
    Abstract: A seal apparatus is disposed between a switchgear cabinet and a circuit breaker between the racked and unracked positions of the circuit breaker. The seal apparatus sealingly extends between the switchgear cabinet and the circuit breaker to resist fluid flow, such as exhaust gases and other matter, between an interior region of the switchgear cabinet and the exterior of the switchgear cabinet.
    Type: Grant
    Filed: September 25, 2008
    Date of Patent: May 31, 2011
    Assignee: Eaton Corporation
    Inventors: Jarrod Lyle Coomer, David Aaron Metcalf, Timothy Fair, Michael Howard Abrahamsen, Daniel Edward Hrncir, Stanley Ervin Moore, Amy Wilcox Rowell