Explosively-actuated, multi-gap high voltage switch
US4490707A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Oct 6, 1983 |
| Grant date | Dec 25, 1984 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 6, 2003 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H33/14
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A high-speed switch usable at high voltage includes a pair of contacts movable apart along a fixed line. When the contacts are normally interconnected, at least one of them contributes to the definition of an enclosed chamber. Pressurization of the chamber by the ignition of a power cartridge therein rapidly drives the contacts apart, forming a first gap between them. The first gap is electrically insulated and is shielded from the ignition products of the cartridge. Any arc forming in the first gap is constricted and subjected to arc-extinguishing gas. When the contacts are interconnected, a first one of them is electrically connected to a terminal. After the contacts move apart, a second gap forms between the first contact and the terminal. The second gap is electrically insulated and is shielded from the ignition products of the cartridge. A fuse may be connected in shunt with the contacts and the insulated gaps. Preferably, the shunt connection is made after the first gap is formed, but before the second gap is formed. This permits the first gap to effect commutation of current from the switch to the fuse and the second gap to be formed after the communtation. The second gap th…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.