Circuit breaker with self-aligning thermal trip
US5130684A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Mar 27, 1990 |
| Grant date | Jul 14, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Mar 27, 2010 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH01H71/405
- WIPO fieldElectrical machinery, apparatus, energy
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A bimetallic thermal release element (34) for use in a thermally actuated tripping mechanism, and in particular used in electrical circuit breakers (10) wherein the load current is passed through the bimetallic element has a self-aligning floating latch member (141) configured to engage the release member and to disengage therefrom when the bimetallic element bows a sufficient amount at a given temperature or current. The bimetallic element is preferably an elongated member supported at its ends (128, 130) by side members (28, 42). An increased sensitivity is imparted to the bimetallic element by mounting the side members for rotation to accommodate the bowing.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.