Abstract:
A circuit breaker includes a first section and a second section with independently operating pairs of contact assemblies in each respective section. In the first section, at least one of the contact assemblies is constructed and arranged to interrupt the current by moving from a normally closed position to a blown-open position and latching with the contact assemblies separated. The second section has a biasing extension spring for biasing the contact assemblies of the second section so as to permit interruption of the current in response to a blow-open force, which causes the contacts to separate only momentarily and then return to a normally closed position. The first and second pairs of contact assemblies separate substantially simultaneously in response to the blow-open force, and only the first section reacts to lower-level over-current conditions. In addition to the contact assemblies, the second section of the circuit breaker is designed to operate using only a spring which is 'Z-axis' mountable. Other aspects of the invention include one-piece tripping actuator, a screw retainer assembly for securing the line or load terminal, a bimetal arrangement involving an improved calibration process and an associated stress-reducing line terminal.
Abstract:
An improved miniature circuit breaker (1, 2) is adapted to improved automatic assembly of all components thereof. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designed to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the trip mechanism (6) including the trip lever (31), and the associated activation means (75), tension means (43) and reset means (35) are defined by elements designed to interact in a Z-axis assemblable fashion. The trip mechanism components (6) are also designed for improved trip action and enhanced breaker performance in repeated CLOSED, and TRIP operations.
Abstract:
A circuit breaker includes a first section and a second section with substantially independently operating pairs of contact assemblies in each respective section. In the first section, at least one of the contact assemblies is constructed and arranged to interrupt the current by moving from a normally closed position to a blown-open position and latching with the contact assemblies separated. The second section has a biasing extension spring for biasing the contact assemblies of the second section so as to permit interruption of the current in response to a blow-open force, which causes the contacts to separate only momentarily and then return to a normally closed position. The first and second pairs of contact assemblies separate substantially simultaneously in response to the blow-open force, and only the first section reacts to lower-level over-current conditions. To prevent welding or sticking of the contacts in the second section, a kicker is interposed between the pairs of contact assemblies so as to slightly open the contact assemblies in the second section in response to the contact assemblies of the first section reacting to the lower-level over-current conditions. The circuit breaker is designed to operate using "Z-axis" mountable components.
Abstract:
An improved miniature circuit breaker (10) is provided which is adapted to impro ved automatic assembly of all components thereof. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designe d to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the magnetic-yoke (12) and armature (17) which comprise the curre nt response mechanism (6) for the circuit breaker (10) are designed to interact with each other so that the magnetic armat ure (17) can easily be Z-axis assembled onto the magnetic yoke (12).
Abstract:
An improved miniature circuit breaker (10) is provided which is adapted to improved automatic assembly of all components thereof. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designed to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the magnetic-yoke (12) and armature (17) which comprise the current response mechanism (6) for the circuit breaker (10) are designed to interact with each other so that the magnetic armature (17) can easily be Z-axis assembled onto the magnetic yoke (12).
Abstract:
A miniature circuit breaker is provided which is adapted to improve automatic assembly of all components. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designed to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the circuit breaker operating mechanism which operates the contacts (45, 46) to make or break the electric circuit is formed of elements designed to interact in a Z-axis assemblable fashion. The movable contact (45) is defined on a contact carrier or blade assembly (41) which is adapted for Z-axis assembly and also provides increased arc erosion resistance and improved opening of the breaker contacts.
Abstract:
An improved miniature circuit breaker is provided which is adapted to improved automatic assembly of all components thereof. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designed to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the circuit breaker operating mechanism which operates the contacts thereof to make or break the electric circuit is formed of elements designed to interact in a Z-axis assemblable fashion. The movable contact is defined on a contact carrier or blade assembly which is adapted for Z-axis assembly and also provides increased arc erosion resistance and improved opening of the breaker contacts.
Abstract:
An improved miniature circuit breaker is provided which is adapted to improved automatic assembly of all components thereof. Key components of the breaker are individually and collectively designed to be susceptible to total Z-axis assembly. In particular, the trip mechanism including the trip lever, and the associated activation means, tension means and reset means are defined by elements designed to interact in a Z-axis assemblable fashion. The trip mechanism components are also designed for improved trip action and enhanced breaker performance in repeated OPEN, CLOSED, and TRIP operations.