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:
A circuit breaker lock-off device is side-mounted to a circuit breaker case in a tenacious engagement. The lock-off device has a generally planar body carrying a lock-off arm pivotable in a plane parallel to the body to place an engagement tab extending therefrom into a position for preventing movement of the breaker handle without being physically attached to the breaker handle. The lock-off arm and the body further have complementary rings for accepting a padlock shackle in the locked off position. The invention allows a rugged lock-off accessory which is field installable and which can accommodate various breaker handle geometries.
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 (10) having a movable upper blade (16) with a free floating pivot end (46). The operating mechanism (34) is solidly connected to the upper blade (16). The contact force is generated by a contact spring (44) which exerts an upward force on the lower blade (26). As the contacts (18, 22) separate, the force exerted on the upper blade (16) is virtually eliminated, reducing substantially the resistance at the pivot end (46) of the upper blade (16). The load terminal (12) and pivot end (46) of the upper blade (16) provide a current path parallel to that of the load side flexible connector (15).
Abstract:
An electronic circuit breaker having a trip solenoid assembly. The trip solenoid assembly includes a permanent magnet (20), plunger (14), trip coil (26) and assist coil (28) and is positioned adjacent to a phase conductor. At high current levels the phase conductor generates a flux that may cause the circuit breaker to nuisance trip. An assist coil (28) is wound adjacent the trip coil (26). The assist coil (28) is energized only when the current through the circuit breaker is of such a level so as to cause nuisance tripping. The assist coil (28) is not energized during the time period when the trip coil (26) is energized.
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:
A circuit breaker (30) having an arc stack assembly (48) that provides a longer arcing path. The arc stack assembly has approximately parallel metal arc plates (94, 96) mounted in insulating sides (102). At the top of the arc stack assembly is an uper runner (104) with a tail (106) curving downwards to end near the uppermost arc plate (97). The arc horn (72) has a prong (76) that moves through the arc stack assembly and also through a groove (110) in the upper runner. The tolerance between the arc and the upper runner is very close to facilitate transfer of the arc to the upper runner.
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).