CN110867350A - Passive triggering mechanism for a switching device comprising a pyrotechnic feature - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a passive trigger mechanism for a switching device incorporating a pyrotechnic feature. Disclosed herein are passive trigger mechanisms for activating pyrotechnic features within electrical switching devices, such as contactor devices and fuse devices. Activation of the pyrotechnic feature is configured to change the configuration of internal components of the switching device and prevent current flow through the device. In some embodiments, the trigger mechanism includes a magnetic field responsive feature, such as a reed switch. In some embodiments, the reed switch is responsive to the elevated current and the signal with the elevated current can then be used to activate the pyrotechnic feature. In other embodiments, the reed switch uses a power signal from the auxiliary power source to activate the pyrotechnic feature.

Description

Passive trigger mechanism for switching devices incorporating pyrotechnic features

technical field

Described herein are devices that relate to triggering mechanisms and configurations for electrical switching devices, such as contactor devices and electrical fuse devices.

Background technique

Connecting and disconnecting electrical circuits is as old as the circuits themselves, and is often used as a method of switching power to a connected electrical device between an "on" and "off" state. An example of one device commonly used to connect and disconnect electrical circuits is a contactor, which is electrically connected to one or more devices or power sources. The contactor is configured such that it can open or complete an electrical circuit to control power to and from the device. One conventional contactor is a hermetically sealed contactor.

In addition to the contactors used to connect and disconnect the circuit during normal operation of the device, various additional devices may be employed to provide overcurrent protection. These devices protect against short circuits, overloads and permanent damage to electrical systems or connected electrical devices. These devices include disconnect devices that can quickly disconnect the circuit in a permanent manner so that the circuit will remain disconnected until the disconnect device is repaired, replaced or reset. One such disconnect device is a fuse. A traditional fuse is a low resistance resistor that acts as a sacrificial device. A typical fuse consists of a metal wire or strip that melts when too much current flows through it, breaking the circuit it is connected to.

As society progresses, various innovations in electrical systems and electronic devices are becoming more common. Examples of such innovations include recent advances in electric vehicles, which could one day become the energy-efficient standard and replace traditional petroleum-powered vehicles. In such expensive and conventionally used electrical installations, overcurrent protection is particularly useful to prevent device failure and prevent permanent damage to the device. Additionally, overcurrent protection prevents safety hazards such as electrical fires. These modern improvements to electrical systems and devices require modern solutions to increase the convenience and efficiency of mechanisms for triggering fuse devices.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Described herein are passive trigger components and configurations for activating pyrotechnic features for use as fusing mechanisms within switching devices such as contactors or fuse devices. These passive triggering configurations may be configured to trigger in response to a threshold magnetic field strength corresponding to a threshold level of current flowing through the device corresponding to a dangerous overcurrent. The current threshold level required to trigger these passive trigger configurations can be related to the distance between the passive trigger mechanism (eg, a reed switch) and a portion of the device (eg, a power terminal or feature connected to a power terminal).

One embodiment of an electrical switching device according to the present invention includes a housing having internal components configured to change the state of the switching device from a closed state allowing current flow through the switching device to breaking current flow through the switching device open state. A pyrotechnic feature is included that is configured to interact with the internal component to transition the switching device from a closed state to an open state when the pyrotechnic feature is activated. Also included is a passive trigger switch structure configured to activate a pyrotechnic feature when the passive trigger switch structure is triggered, the passive trigger switch structure configured to trigger in response to an elevated current signal flowing through the switching device . The passive trigger switch is also arranged to use an elevated current signal to activate the pyrotechnic feature.

One embodiment of an electrical system in accordance with the present invention includes an operational power supply circuit including an operational power supply coupled to a work load through a current path, with a contactor between the power supply and the load. Including a pyrotechnic activation circuit including a trigger arranged to sense an elevated current in the operating power circuit, the activation circuit further including a pyrotechnic actuator, the trigger activating the pyrotechnic actuator to Operates on the contactor to break the current path in the working power circuit.

One embodiment of a pyrotechnic activation circuit according to the present invention includes a trigger arranged to sense a magnetic field in response to an elevated current in the circuit. A pyrotechnic actuator is included, wherein the trigger activates the pyrotechnic actuator in response to the elevated current level to open a circuit carrying the elevated current, wherein the trigger uses the elevated current to activate the pyrotechnic actuator.

These and other further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art from the following detailed description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, wherein like numerals refer to corresponding parts of the accompanying drawings, wherein:

Description of drawings

Figure 1 is a front cross-sectional view of an embodiment of a contactor capable of incorporating features of the present invention, shown in a "closed" orientation allowing current to flow through the device;

Figure 2 is a front cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the contactor device of Figure 1, shown in an "open" or "open" orientation preventing current flow through the device;

Fig. 3 is a front cross-sectional view of the embodiment of the contactor device of Fig. 1, shown in a different orientation, wherein the disconnect element has been "triggered";

Figure 4 is a front cross-sectional view of a fuse device capable of incorporating features of the present invention, shown in a resting "not triggered" state;

5 is a front cross-sectional view of a fuse device capable of incorporating features of the present invention, shown in an activated "triggered" state;

6 is a front, top perspective view of a pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention;

Figure 7 is a rear, top view of the pyrotechnic trigger configuration of Figure 6;

8 is a front, top perspective view of another pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention;

Figure 9 is a rear, top view of the pyrotechnic trigger configuration of Figure 8;

10 is a front, top perspective view of yet another pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention;

Figure 11 is a front cross-sectional view of a portion of the pyrotechnic trigger configuration of Figure 10;

12 is a schematic diagram of one embodiment of a pyrotechnic power switching circuit according to the present invention;

as well as

13 is a schematic diagram of another embodiment of a pyrotechnic power switching circuit according to the present invention.

Detailed ways

The present disclosure will now set forth detailed descriptions of various implementations. These embodiments illustrate passive switching features and configurations for use with switching devices such as contactors or fuse devices that integrate a pyrotechnic disconnect feature. These switching devices may be electrically connected to electrical devices or systems to "turn on" or "turn off" power to the connected device or system. While the example devices disclosed herein may utilize active triggering configurations in addition to or in place of the passive features disclosed, passive features provide the advantage of automatically triggering a pyrotechnic circuit disconnect in response to a threshold current level.

In some embodiments, a printed circuit board (PCB) or external trigger mechanism is configured to direct a signal to a pyrotechnic pin in communication with the pyrotechnic charge. The power for this signal to trigger the pyrotechnic feature of the switching device may be provided by a separate power source (ie, a power source other than that of the device or electrical system to which the switching device is connected). Alternatively, power for the signal may be provided or diverted from the power source of the device or electrical system to which the switching device is connected. The pyrotechnic charge is configured to act as a fuse, permanently breaking the circuit by means of a contactor or fuse arrangement, eg by moving the movable contacts out of contact with the stationary contacts.

The PCB or external trigger mechanism includes a passive trigger switch, such as a reed switch, which opens in its resting state, preventing the trigger signal from being sent to the pyrotechnic pin and thus allowing current to flow through the device. The passive trigger switch can be configured to trigger in response to a magnetic field of sufficient strength that can be calculated to correspond to a desired threshold current level through the device, eg, a dangerous overcurrent. Passive trigger switches can be configured as "proximity switches" because the required threshold strength of the magnetic field required to trigger the passive trigger switch depends on the proximity of the passive trigger switch to the source of the magnetic field. This allows the desired trip current to be set based on the distance between the passive trigger switch and an area of the device (eg one of the power terminals).

In other implementations, additional features may be included. For example, the iron core structure may be positioned at least partially around one of the power terminals of the switching device, and the trip current may be determined by the distance between the core structure and the passive trigger switch. In some embodiments, an external trigger mechanism may be utilized, which may include a conductive bus portion and a passive trigger switch separated from the conductive bus portion by a non-magnetic spacer portion. In these embodiments, the trip current may be determined by the thickness of the non-magnetic spacer portion.

Throughout the specification, the preferred embodiments and examples shown should be considered as illustrative rather than limiting of the invention. As used herein, the terms "invention," "device," "present invention," or "existing device" refer to any one embodiment of the invention described herein, and any equivalents. Furthermore, references throughout this document to various features of the "invention," "apparatus," "present invention," or "existing apparatus" do not imply that all claimed implementations or methods necessarily include the recited feature.

It will also be understood that when an element or feature is referred to as being "on" or "adjacent to" another element or feature, it can be directly on or adjacent to the other element or feature, or intervening elements or features may also be present. feature. It will also be understood that when an element is referred to as being "attached," "connected," or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly attached, connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. In contrast, when an element is referred to as being "directly attached," "directly connected," or "directly coupled" to another element, there are no intervening elements present.

Relative terms such as "outer," "above," "below," "below," "horizontal," "vertical," and similar terms may be used herein to describe the relationship of one feature to another. It should be understood that these terms are intended to encompass different orientations in addition to the orientation shown in the figures.

Although the terms first, second, etc. may be used herein to describe various elements or components, these elements or components should not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element or component from another element or component. Thus, a first element or component discussed below could be termed a second element or component without departing from the teachings of the present invention.

The terminology used herein is used to describe particular embodiments only and is not intended to limit the invention. As used herein, the singular forms "a," "an," and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "comprising", "comprising", when used herein, specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements and/or parts, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other Features, integers, steps, operations, elements, parts and/or combinations thereof.

Embodiments of the invention are described herein with reference to various views and illustrations that are schematic illustrations of idealized embodiments of the invention. Accordingly, variations in the shapes of the illustrations due to, for example, manufacturing techniques and/or tolerances, are expected. Embodiments of the invention should not be construed as limited to the particular shapes of the regions illustrated herein, but rather include deviations in shapes resulting from, for example, manufacturing.

It will be understood that when a first element is referred to as being "in," "interposed," or "sandwiched between" two or more other elements, the first element can be directly between the two or more other elements or Intervening elements may also be present between two or more other elements. For example, if a first element is "between" or "sandwiched" between a second element and a third element, then the first element can be directly between the second element and the third element without the intervening element, or the first element can be An element may be adjacent to one or more additional elements, both the first element and the additional elements being between the second and third elements.

Before describing in detail a specific pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention, an example switching apparatus incorporating pyrotechnic features and providing an example environment for a passive trigger configuration in accordance with the present invention will first be described. These switching devices may include any switching device that incorporates a pyrotechnic feature, eg, a contactor configured to allow the device to be switched between an "on" and an "off" state.

In some contactor devices, the pyrotechnic feature is used as a fuse element incorporated into the contactor device. An example of such a contactor device is set forth in US Application Serial No. 16/101,143, entitled "Contactor Device Integrating Pyrotechnic Disconnect Features," which is assigned to Gigavac, the assignee of the present application Ltd. and is incorporated herein by reference. In addition to contactors configured to switch freely between "on" and "off" states, pyrotechnic trigger configurations according to the present disclosure may also be used with sacrificial fuse devices configured to Allows current to pass through an electrical system or device when triggered and prevents current from passing through the electrical system or device when triggered. An example of such a fuse device is set forth in US Application No. 15/889,516, entitled "MECHANICAL FUSE DEVICE," which is assigned to Gigavac, Inc., the assignee of the present application, and which is incorporated by reference. to this application.

Referring to an exemplary contactor device incorporating a pyrotechnic feature, FIG. 1 shows a cross-sectional view of an exemplary embodiment of a contactor device 100 that includes an integrated pyrotechnic disconnect feature that may Used as a sacrificial disconnect. Figure 1 shows the contactor device 100 in a "closed" circuit position, with current flowing through the contactor device activated. Figure 1 also shows the pyrotechnic disconnect portion of the contactor device 100 in its non-triggered or "set" mechanical orientation, allowing the contactor device to function normally to operate between its "closed" and "open" positions. The open portion of the contactor device 100 also has a "triggered" orientation, wherein the circuit is opened and current flow through the contactor device is permanently disabled until the device is replaced or repaired and reset. Both "closed" and "open" contactor modes and "set" and "triggered" open modes are described in further detail herein.

The contactor device 100 of FIG. 1 includes a body 102 (also referred to as a housing 102), and two or more stationary contact structures 104, 106 (two shown) configured to connect the interior of the contactor device A component is electrically connected to an external circuit, such as an electrical system or device. The body 102 may comprise any suitable material capable of supporting the structures and features of the contactor device 100 as disclosed herein, a preferred material is a strong material that can provide structural support for the contactor device 100 without interfering with the passage of securing Current flow to contacts 104, 106 and internal components of the device. In some embodiments, the body 102 includes a durable plastic or polymer. The body 102 at least partially surrounds various internal components of the contactor device 100, which will be described in further detail herein.

The body 102 may comprise any shape suitable for accommodating various internal components, including any regular or irregular polygons. The body 102 may be a continuous structure, or may include multiple components joined together, eg, including a base "cup" and a top "head" portion sealed with an epoxy material. Some exemplary body configurations include those set forth in US Pat. Nos. 7,321,281, 7,944,333, 8,446,240, and 9,013,254, all of which are assigned to Gigavac, Inc., the assignee of the present application, and all of which are incorporated by reference in their entirety This article.

The stationary contacts 104, 106 are configured such that the various internal components of the contactor device 100 housed within the body 102 can be in electrical communication with external electrical systems or devices, so that the contactor device 100 can be used as a switch to open or perform functions such as circuit described in this article. The stationary contacts 104, 106 may comprise any suitable conductive material for providing electrical contact with the internal components of the contactor device, eg, various metals and metallic materials or any electrical contact material or structure known in the art. The stationary contacts 104, 106 may comprise a single continuous contact structure (as shown) or may comprise a plurality of electrical connection structures. For example, in some embodiments, the stationary contacts 104, 106 may include two parts, a first part extending from the body 102 that is electrically connected to a second part inside the body 102, the second part being configured as described herein interact with other components inside the described body.

The body 102 may be configured such that the interior space of the body 102 that houses the various internal components of the contactor device 100 is hermetically sealed. When coupled with the use of an electronegative gas, this hermetically sealed configuration can help mitigate or prevent arcing between adjacent conductive elements and, in some embodiments, help provide electrical power between spatially separated contacts isolation. In some embodiments, the body 102 may be under vacuum conditions. The body 102 may be sealed using any known tool for creating a hermetically sealed electrical device. Some examples of hermetic seals include those described in US Pat. Nos. 7,321,281, 7,944,333, 8,446,240, and 9,013,254, all of which are assigned to Gigavac Ltd., the assignee of the present application, and all of which are This application is incorporated by reference in its entirety.

In some embodiments, the body 102 may be at least partially filled with an electronegative gas, such as sulfur hexafluoride or a mixture of nitrogen and sulfur hexafluoride. In some embodiments, the body 102 includes a material that has low or substantially no permeability to the gas injected into the housing. In some embodiments, the body may include various gases, liquids or solids configured to increase the performance of the device.

Before describing the pyrotechnic disconnection feature of the contactor device 100 for overcurrent protection, the contactor components used during normal switching use of the contactor device 100 will first be described. When not interacting with any other components inside the body 102, the stationary contacts 104, 106 are instead electrically isolated from each other so that electricity cannot flow freely between them. The stationary contacts 104, 106 may be electrically isolated from each other by any known electrical isolation structure or method.

When the contactor device 100 is in its "closed" position, as shown in FIG. 1 , both electrically isolated stationary contacts 104 , 106 are in contact with the movable contact 108 . The movable contact 108 acts as a bridge to allow electrical signals to flow through the device, eg, from the first fixed contact 104 to the movable contact 108, to the second contact 106, and vice versa. Thus, the contactor device 100 can be connected to a circuit, system or device and complete the circuit while the movable contacts are in electrical contact with the stationary contacts.

The movable contact 108 may comprise any suitable conductive material, including any of the materials discussed herein with respect to the stationary contacts 104 , 106 . Like the stationary contacts 104, 106, the movable contact 108 may comprise a single continuous structure (as shown), or may comprise multiple components that are electrically connected to each other so as to serve as electrically isolated stationary contacts 104, 106 Contact bridges between 106 so that electricity can flow through the contactor device 100 .

The movable contact 108 may be configured such that it can move into and out of electrical contact with the stationary contacts 104 , 106 . This causes the circuit to "close" or complete when the movable contact is in electrical contact with the stationary contacts 104 , 106 , and "open" or open when the movable contact 108 is not in electrical contact with the stationary contacts 104 , 106 . The stationary contacts 104, 106 are electrically isolated from each other when not in contact with the movable contact. In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the movable contact 108 is physically connected to a shaft structure 110 that is configured to move within the contactor device 100 along a predetermined distance. The shaft 110 may comprise any material or shape suitable for its characteristics as an internal movable member that is physically connected to the movable contact 108 such that the movable contact 108 can move with the shaft 110 .

As described herein, movement of the shaft 110 controls the movement of the movable contact 108, which in turn controls the position of the movable contact 108 relative to the fixed contacts 104, 106, which in turn controls the flow of electrical current through the contactor device 100. Motion of the shaft can be controlled by various configurations including, but not limited to, electrical and electronic, magnetic and solenoid, and manual. An exemplary manual configuration for controlling a shaft connected to a movable contact is set forth in US Patent No. 9,013,254 to Gigavac, Inc., assignee of the present application, and all of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entirety. Some example configurations of manual control features include magnetic configurations, diaphragm configurations, and corrugated configurations.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the movement of the shaft 110 is controlled by using a solenoid configuration. The plunger structure 111 is connected to or at least partially surrounds a portion of the shaft 110 . The body 102 also houses the solenoid 112 . Many different solenoids can be used, one example of a suitable solenoid is one that operates at low voltage and relatively high force. An example of a suitable solenoid is the commercially available solenoid model SD1564 N1200 from Bicron Ltd, although many other solenoids can be used. In the embodiment shown, the plunger structure 111 may comprise a metallic material that may be moved and controlled by the solenoid 112 . Movement of the plunger structure 111 controls the movement of the connecting shaft 110 which in turn controls the movement of the connected movable contact 108 .

The travel distance of the shaft 110 can be controlled using various features, such as springs for controlling trip/over-trip distance or various parts of the body 102 that can block or limit the travel distance of the shaft 110 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , the travel distance of the shaft 110 is controlled in part by a hard stop 113 that is configured to abut against the wing 114 of the shaft 110 so that when the shaft 110 has moved away from the stationary contact When 104, 106 travel a sufficient distance, the distance of the shaft 110 is limited. Hard stop 113 may comprise any material or shape suitable to provide a surface for interaction with shaft 110 to limit the distance of movement or travel of shaft 110 . In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the hard stop 113 comprises a plastic material. In some embodiments, the hard stop 113 is configured to break or shear off when the pyrotechnic disconnect element is activated, as will be discussed in further detail below.

Now that the basic switching features of the contactor device 110 have been described, the pyrotechnic disconnect element will now be described. Contactor device 100 may include several elements that may serve as overcurrent protection, including pyrotechnic charge 202 and piston structure 204 . Piston structure 204 may be positioned adjacent to or at least partially surrounding one or more internal components, eg, shaft 110 as shown. Movement of the piston from the rest position can change the configuration of the internal components to interrupt the flow of electrical current through the device, eg, by pushing or otherwise moving the shaft 100 as described herein. The pyrotechnic charge 202 may be configured such that it is activated when the current exceeds a predetermined threshold level to prevent permanent damage to connected electrical devices or safety hazards such as electrical fires.

The contactor device 100 can include various sensor features that can detect when the current through the device has reached a dangerous level and can trigger the pyrotechnic charge when this threshold level is detected. In some embodiments, the contactor device 100 may include a dedicated current sensor configured to detect the level of current flowing through the device. The current sensor may be configured to activate the pyrotechnic charge directly or indirectly when the current reaches a threshold level. In some embodiments, when a threshold current level is detected, the current sensor may send a signal proportional to the detected current to activate the pyrotechnic charge. In some embodiments, the current sensor may comprise a Hall effect sensor, a transformer or current clamp meter, a resistor, a fiber optic current sensor or an interferometer.

In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic charge 202 is configured to be activated by electrical pulses and driven by an airbag system configured to detect multiple factors, similar to those used in modern vehicles. In some embodiments, the contactor device 100 may include one or more pyrotechnic pins 203 that may be configured to trigger the pyrotechnic charge 202 when the pyrotechnic pins 203 receive an activation signal. In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic charge may be connected to another component that already monitors the flowing current. The other component, such as the battery management assembly, may then be configured to send a signal to activate the pyrotechnic charge upon detection of a threshold current level.

The pyrotechnic charge 202 may be a singly charged structure or a multiply charged structure. In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic charge 202 includes a dual charge configuration that first includes an initiator charge, and then includes a second gas generant charge. As described herein, many different types of pyrotechnic charges may be used, provided that the pyrotechnic charge used is sufficient to provide sufficient force to move the piston structure 204 to permanently disrupt the electrical circuit of the contactor device 100 . In some embodiments, the pyrotechnic charge 202 comprises zirconium perchlorate, which has the advantage of being suitable for use as an initiator charge and a gas generant charge. In some embodiments, the initiator charge includes a fast burning material such as zirconium perchlorate, zirconium tungsten perchlorate, potassium titanium perchlorate, potassium hydrogen perchlorate, or potassium hydrogen perchlorate. In some embodiments, the gas generant charge includes a slow burning material such as potassium boron nitrate or black powder.

When the pyrotechnic charge 202 is activated, the resulting force causes the piston structure 204 to be driven away from its rest position near or around the pyrotechnic charge 202, which in turn pushes the piston structure 204 against the shaft 110 and causes the shaft to be driven away from the stationary contacts 104 , 106 . The resulting force is also sufficient to break or shear the hard stop 113 , causing the shaft 110 to be forced further away from the stationary contacts 104 , 106 , eg, into a separate interior compartment 206 of the body 102 . The piston structure 204 may include sufficient dimensions (eg, shape, size, spatial orientation, or other configuration) such that the piston structure 204 may hold internal components in position or a configuration in which current cannot flow through the contactor device. This is accomplished, for example, by holding the shaft 110 away from the stationary contacts 104 , 106 , for example by holding the shaft 110 substantially within a separate interior compartment 206 of the body 102 . This in turn causes the movable contact 108 connected to the shaft 110 to be separated from the stationary contacts 104, 106 by an even greater spatial gap, leaving the device in a "triggered" or permanently "open" configuration, where electricity cannot flow through the device. In some embodiments, the piston structure 204 includes sufficient dimensions such that once it is displaced by activating the pyrotechnic feature 202, the piston structure 204 is forced into a position that interacts with a portion of the body 102 such that it cannot be easily moved.

In addition to the rapidly created large spatial gap between the stationary contacts 104, 106 and the movable contact 108, other structures may be used. For example, in some embodiments, one or more arc jet magnets 208 (two are shown) may be utilized to further control the arc. While the primary method for breaking the current is to rapidly open the contacts to a larger air gap as described herein, additional additional gas blasting for the arc can be obtained, for example by using a gas generator charge performance.

In some embodiments, including the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , other optional design features may be included that may help prevent the danger of rapid accumulation of gas due to activation of the pyrotechnic charge 202 . In these embodiments, the body 102 may be configured such that when the pyrotechnic charge 202 is activated, the piston structure 204 drives the shaft 110 with sufficient force to pierce a portion of the body 102 . This will allow a rapid build-up of gas to escape. In some embodiments, this is accomplished through a portion of the body 102 that includes a septum that can be pierced during a pyrotechnic disconnect cycle, eg, through the sharpened portion 210 of the shaft 110, a vent portion that allows the connection of gas from the body 102 212 escapes, the membrane may be a high temperature filter membrane. Then, the high temperature gas can be exhausted from the main body 102 . Pressure relief cools the arc and improves performance and prevents contactor housing breakage.

The difference between the circuit breaking the current through the contactor device 100 during normal switching operation and the permanent opening of the circuit breaking the current through the contactor device 100 when the device is in its "triggered" state is in Figures 2-3 better shown. Figures 2-3 show the contactor device 100 of Figure 1, but in different orientations. Contactor device 100 includes body 102 , fixed contacts 104 , 106 , movable contact 108 , shaft 110 , plunger structure 111 , solenoid 112 , hard stop 113 , wing portion 114 of shaft 110 , pyrotechnic charge 202 , hot pin 203 , piston structure 204 , separate compartment 206 of body 102 , arc blowout magnet 208 , sharp portion 210 of shaft 110 , and vent portion 212 of body 102 .

The contactor arrangement 100 is shown in its "open" state in FIG. 2 , which shows the shaft 110 moving so that the connected movable contacts 108 are separated from the fixed contacts 104 , 106 by opening the space gap 302 . As shown in Figure 2, the contactor device 100 is still in the "set" position without the pyrotechnic feature activated. The open space gap 302 separates the movable contact 108 from the stationary contacts 104, 106 by a sufficient distance, which would otherwise be electrically isolated from each other, to interrupt current flow through the device. In contrast, FIG. 3 shows the contactor device 100 in its activated state when the pyrotechnic charge 202 is activated, such that the piston arrangement 204 exerts force on the shaft 110 and the movable contact 108 in a direction away from the stationary contact 104 . This quickly creates a large open circuit space gap 350 between the fixed contacts 104 , 106 and the movable contact 108 .

As shown in FIG. 3 , the force resulting from the activation of the pyrotechnic charge 202 and the resulting sudden movement of the piston structure 204 and shaft 110 is sufficient to break or shear the hard stop 113 to move from its original position of connection to the body 113 . bit. Hard stop 113 may comprise a strong material attached to or integrated with body 102 such that it acts as a stop for shaft 110 during normal device operation between "closed" and "open" circuit states. However, during operation of the pyrotechnic disconnect feature, the hard stop 113 may be intentionally designed to "fail" as a stop structure and break or shear off to allow the shaft 110 to enter the separate body compartment 206 .

In some embodiments, the piston structure 204 can be configured such that it can interact with the piston stop portion 352 of the body 102 after the pyrotechnic charge 202 is activated. This may be accomplished, for example, by interacting with the position of the piston structure 204 , eg, a portion of the piston stop portion 352 being configured to interact or cooperate with another portion on the piston structure 204 .

In some embodiments, the piston structure 204 will not be in contact with the piston stop portion 352 until the piston structure 204 has been displaced by activating the pyrotechnic charge 202 . This results in the piston structure 204 being held between the piston stop portion 352 and the movable contact 108 when the pyrotechnic charge 202 has been activated and the piston structure 204 is forced from its rest position. As shown in FIG. 3 , this configuration places the piston structure 204 in a position to hold or lock the piston structure 204 on the movable contact 108 . The piston structure 204 holds the movable contact 108 in place and helps maintain the circuit break space gap 350 so that the stationary contacts 104, 106 and the movable contact 108 do not slip back into contact with each other, making the contactor device 100 inoperable. operate.

In some embodiments, as an alternative to or in addition to the piston stop portion 352 of the body 102 , the individual compartments 206 of the body 102 may include sufficient dimensions, including, for example, size and shape, such that the individual compartments 206 may interact with the shaft 110 Part of the interaction that has moved into a separate compartment 206 due to activation of the pyrotechnic charge 202 .

In some embodiments, the individual compartments may be configured to interact with a sheared hard stop 113 or another structure connected to the shaft 110 that has moved to the individual compartments due to activation of the pyrotechnic charge 202 room 206. During conventional device operation, these parts of the shaft 110 or connecting structure were not previously within the separate compartment 206, but were instead forced into the separate compartment 206 during the pyrotechnic cycle during overcurrent protection operation. The separate compartment 206 includes sufficient size, shape or additional features, eg, features configured to interact or mate with corresponding features on the shaft 110 or connecting structure, to hold the shaft 110 in place so as to connect to the shaft The movable contact 108 of 110 cannot slide back into contact with the stationary contacts 104 , 106 .

In addition to the aforementioned features, the contactor device 100 of FIGS. 1-3 may also include a PCB 400 . As will be discussed further herein, the PCB allows for efficient and convenient connection of the internal components of the contactor device 100 to a pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention. PCB 400 may be a PCB designed to accommodate a pyrotechnic trigger configuration incorporating features of the present invention. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-3, the PCB 400 is shown as being located near the top of the contactor device 100; however, it should be understood that the PCB 400 may be located in or on any portion of the contactor device 100, and may be in contact with inside the contactor device 100 or outside the contactor device 100 .

In addition to contactor devices that can operate to limit or allow current flow through the device during normal operation, another type of switching device that can be used as an example environment for use with passive pyrotechnic triggering configurations is a fuse device. The fuse device only allows current to flow through the device during normal operation and acts as a sacrificial circuit opening when a threshold current level passes through the device. Figures 4-5 illustrate such an exemplary fuse device 430 that includes similar features and operates similarly to the contactor device 100 of Figures 1-3, however, does not include some of these features, such as with A solenoid or other mechanism for opening and closing fixed and movable contacts. During normal operation, the fuse device 430 is always in a "closed" state, allowing current to flow through the device, until the pyrotechnic feature is activated, causing the device to be "open" thereafter, preventing current flow through the device. Figures 4-5 show body 432 (similar to body 102 in Figures 1-3 above), stationary contacts 434, 436 (similar to stationary contacts 104, 106 in Figures 1-3 above). However, in this embodiment, the stationary contacts 434, 436 are formed separately from the power terminals 438, 440 that are electrically connected to the stationary contacts 434, 436 for connection to external circuits, the power terminals and the stationary contacts The head is the same as the embodiment of FIGS. 1 to 3 . Figures 4-5 further illustrate the movable contact 442 (similar to the movable contact 108 in Figures 1-3 above), the shaft structure 444 (similar to the shaft structure 110 in Figures 1-3 above, except for different shapes).

The shaft structure 444 is connected to the movable contact 442 and the piston structure 446 (which is similar to the piston structure 204 in FIGS. 1-3 above). The piston structure 446 may at least partially surround the pyrotechnic charge 448 such that when the pyrotechnic charge 448 is activated, the movable contact 442 and the piston structure 446 are forced in a direction away from the stationary contacts 434, 436, thus breaking the circuit. In some embodiments, the fuse device 430 may include a support structure 450 configured to help hold the stationary contacts 434, 436 and the movable contact 442 in place. In some embodiments, triggering the pyrotechnic charge 448 causes the piston structure 446 to be driven away from the pyrotechnic charge in such a way that the support structure 450 is broken or displaced. In some embodiments, the fuse device 430 may be triggered by an active signal. In some embodiments, the fuse device 430 may be triggered by a passive trigger configuration, such as those discussed herein. FIG. 4 shows the fuse device 430 in a “closed” state, with the stationary contacts 434 , 436 and the movable contact 442 together and allowing current to flow through the device 430 . In contrast, FIG. 5 shows fuse device 430 in its "open" state after pyrotechnic charge 448 is triggered, wherein stationary contacts 434, 436 and movable contact 444 are separated and flow through device 430 is prevented. current.

Since two types of switching devices, a contactor and a fuse device, have been described as example environments in which a pyrotechnic trigger mechanism according to the present disclosure may be utilized, embodiments of the pyrotechnic trigger mechanism may now be described more fully. In the following embodiments described in relation to FIGS. 6 to 11 , the pyrotechnic triggering configuration will be described with reference to the contactor arrangement applied to FIGS. 1 to 3 . It should be understood, however, that the pyrotechnic triggering configurations described with respect to Figures 6-11 may be applied as triggering devices in any switching mechanism incorporating a pyrotechnic feature, including, for example, the fuse devices described with respect to Figures 4-5.

Figure 6 shows a pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500 comprising a PCB 502 (traces not shown) (similar to PCB 400 in Figures 1-3), power terminals 504 (similar to the fixed contacts in Figures 1-3) header structures 104 , 106 ), and passive trigger switch 506 . Figure 6 also shows a pyrotechnic trigger arrangement 500 integrated with an electrical device 503 that includes a body 508, which may be similar to body 102, containing internal components. The pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500 in FIG. 6 is shown without the top "cap" portion of the body, leaving the PCB 502 visible and exposed, however, it should be understood that in normal device operation, materials such as including a cap and epoxy may be included part of the closed body. Figure 6 also shows a pyrotechnic pin 510, which is similar to the pyrotechnic pin 203 in Figures 1-3. Coil pins 512 are included that allow electrical connection to an internal coil or solenoid, eg, similar to solenoid 112 in FIGS. 1-3 . Also included is a tubular structure 514 that can help create an internal hermetic seal or management of the electronegative gas within the electrical device 503 .

In operation of the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500 of FIG. 6, when a predetermined level of current is passed through the device 503, eg, a current level representing a dangerous current level that could cause permanent damage to the device or create a hazard such as a fire, passive trigger switches 506 will be activated. This in turn completes a circuit that transmits a signal to the pyrotechnic pin 510, thereby activating an internal pyrotechnic element, such as, for example, the pyrotechnic charge 202 in Figures 1-3. In these embodiments, the PCB 502 may be configured such that it directs the trigger signal to a pyrotechnic pin 510 that is in electrical communication with a pyrotechnic feature inside the device 503 . The electrical path of the trigger signal may depend on closing or activating the passive trigger switch 506 such that when the passive trigger switch 506 is open or not triggered (in a quiescent state), the electrical path of the trigger signal to the pyrotechnic pin 510 is blocked. Likewise, when the passive trigger switch 506 is closed or activated, the trigger signal may be directed to the pyrotechnic pin 510 and trigger the internal pyrotechnic feature.

The passive trigger switch 506 may be connected to a sensor configured to detect when a predetermined level of current is passed through the device 503, the sensor signaling the passive trigger switch 506 to trigger. In some embodiments, the passive trigger switch 506 itself is configured to detect or passively respond and trigger when the current through the device 503 reaches a predetermined level. For example, in some embodiments, passive trigger switch 506 includes a switch configured to respond to a magnetic field generated by current flowing through power terminal 504 of device 503 or by current passing through an area of device 503 .

In some embodiments, passive trigger switch 506 is a reed switch or other switching mechanism that is configured to activate in response to generating a magnetic field of sufficient strength. Reed switches are available in different configurations. For example, a reed switch may be configured such that the contacts open at rest and close when a sufficient magnetic field is present, or close at rest and open when a sufficient magnetic field is present. Furthermore, in some embodiments, the reed switch may be organized as a reed relay and actuated by a magnetic coil. In most embodiments incorporating a reed switch herein, the reed switch is configured such that the contacts open at rest, preventing the electrical signal from traveling to the pyrotechnic pin 510 and activating the pyrotechnic feature until sufficient corresponding to the dangerous current level The magnetic field closes the reed switch.

In some embodiments, the PCB 502 includes a plurality of passive trigger switch mounting features 516 that allow the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500 to be adjusted according to the desired trip current. For example, Figure 7 shows a pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500, PCB 502, electrical device 503, power terminals 504, passive trigger switch 506, body 508, pyrotechnic pin 510, coil pin 512, tubular structure 514 and trigger switch mounting features 516. As shown in FIG. 7, by mounting the passive trigger switch 506 to a different one of the trigger switch mounting features 516, the desired trip current can be adjusted, which in turn adjusts the relationship between the passive trigger switch 506 and one or more of the trigger switch mounting features 516. Trip distance 518 between power terminals 504 .

By adjusting the trip distance 518 between the passive trigger switch 506 and one or more of the power terminals 504, the amount of current flowing through the device 503 that is required to activate the passive trigger switch 506 and thus trigger the Internal pyrotechnic features of the device. For example, the passive trigger switch 506 may comprise a reed switch configured to activate when a predetermined magnetic field is generated due to a predetermined current level flowing through the power terminal 504 . The strength of the magnetic field required to trigger the passive trigger switch 506, and thus the corresponding level of current flowing through the device required to trigger the passive trigger switch 506, can be achieved by simply changing the passive trigger switch 506 and the power supply terminal 504 The trip distance between 518 is adjusted. In the embodiment shown, this may be accomplished by mounting the passive trigger switch 506 to a different passive trigger switch mounting feature 516 .

By moving the passive trigger switch 506 away from the power supply terminal 504 , a larger magnetic field and thus more current will be required to trigger the passive trigger switch 506 and thus the pyrotechnic characteristics of the device 503 . This can provide a pre-engineered switching device with a pre-designed PCB so that the device can be mass-produced, while allowing for different placement of passive trigger switch 506 at different ones of passive trigger switch mounting features 516 based on passive trigger switch 506 trip current. For example, passive trigger switch mounting features 516 may be on PCB 502 at locations that correspond to different levels of magnetic field strength, which in turn may correspond to different levels of desired trip current. A company can manufacture one PCB configuration and can place passive trigger switch 506 on different passive trigger switch mounting features 516 to create a device that will trip at different currents. In embodiments utilizing coils or solenoids, such as with contactors, passive trigger switch 506 may be configured to turn off power to the coil. In these embodiments, this configuration can reduce the time it takes for the pyrotechnic feature to open the contacts because it does not have to resist the coil.

In other embodiments, additional features may be included in place of or in addition to trigger switch mounting features 516 to further interact with passive trigger switch 506 . For example, FIG. 8 shows a device 602 having a pyrotechnic trigger configuration 600 similar to the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 500 in FIGS. 6 and 7 . Device 603 includes PCB 602 (similar to PCB 502 in FIG. 7 ), electrical device 603 (similar to electrical device 503 in FIG. 7 ), and power terminal 604 (similar to power terminal 504 in FIG. 7 ). Device 603 also includes passive trigger switch 606 (similar to passive trigger switch 506 in FIG. 7 ), body 608 (similar to body 508 in FIG. 7 ), pyrotechnic pin 610 (similar to pyrotechnic pin in FIG. 7 ) 510), coil pin 612 (similar to coil pin 512 in FIG. 7), and tubular structure 614 (similar to tubular structure 514 in FIG. 7). While similar embodiments may include trigger switch mounting features, the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 does not include trigger switch mounting features. Instead, the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 600 includes a core structure 630 that facilitates determining a target trip current for the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 600 .

Core structure 630 may comprise any known material capable of directing, directing, or controlling the magnetic field generated by the electrical current flowing through device 603 . For example, in some embodiments, the core structure 630 includes metal. In some embodiments, the core structure 630 includes iron, iron alloys, or other iron-containing materials. In some embodiments, the core structure 630 is magnetic. The core structure 630 may comprise any suitable shape or configuration that produces the desired magnetic field characteristics, including any regular or irregular polygons or custom shapes. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, the core structure 630 includes curved strips. The core structure 630 may be configured at any spatial position relative to the device 603 and the PCB 602 to facilitate interaction between the generated magnetic field and the passive trigger switch 606 . In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8 , the core structure 630 at least partially surrounds one of the power terminals 604 and is adjacent to the passive trigger switch 606 .

The magnetic field generated from the core structure 630 can be more important than the magnetic field generated by the power terminals themselves, and the desired trigger current can be controlled by adjusting the distance between a portion of the core structure 630 and the passive trigger switch 606, rather than Power terminal 604 and passive trigger switch 606 in the embodiment of FIGS. 6-7. For example, FIG. 9 shows a pyrotechnic trigger configuration 600 , PCB 602 , electrical device 603 , power terminals 604 , passive trigger switch 606 , body 608 , pyrotechnic pin 610 , coil pin 612 , tubular structure 614 and core structure 630 . FIG. 9 also shows the trip distance 636 between the passive trigger switch 606 and the core structure 630 . Similar to the embodiment of FIGS. 7-8 , passive trigger switch 606 may include a reed switch or other passive mechanism configured to respond when due to predetermined current levels flowing through power terminal 604 and/or core structure 630 . Activated when a predetermined magnetic field is generated.

The strength of the magnetic field required to trigger the passive trigger switch 606, and thus the corresponding level of current flowing through the device required to trigger the passive trigger switch 606, can be achieved by simply changing the values of the passive trigger switch 606 and core structure 630 The trip distance 636 between parts can be adjusted. By moving the passive trigger switch 606 away from the core structure 630 , a larger magnetic field, and thus more current, will be required to trigger the passive trigger switch 606 , and thus trigger the pyrotechnic characteristics of the device 603 .

In some embodiments, an external trigger mechanism may be used in place of or in addition to the trigger switch mounting feature 606 or the core structure 630 . In some embodiments, this external trigger mechanism may replace the need for a PCB, but in other embodiments, an external trigger mechanism may be used in addition to the PCB. An example embodiment is shown in FIG. 10 in which an external trigger mechanism replaces the need for a PCB. Figure 10 shows a pyrotechnic trigger configuration 700 (similar to the pyrotechnic trigger configuration 600 in Figure 8). Configuration 700 includes electrical device 703 (similar to electrical device 603 in FIG. 8 ), power terminal 704 (similar to power terminal 604 in FIG. 8 ), passive trigger switch 706 (similar to passive trigger in FIG. 8 ) switch), body 708 (similar to body 608 in Figure 8), pyrotechnic pin 710 (similar to pyrotechnic pin 610 in Figure 8), access point 712 (which may provide line access to an internal solenoid or coil ), and tubular structure 714 (similar to tubular structure 614 in Figure 8). Figure 10 also shows the body 708 including a top or cap portion 716 through which the power terminals 704 protrude.

It should be understood that a similar top or cap portion of the cap portion 716 of the body 708 shown in FIG. 10 may be applied to all other embodiments incorporating the features of the present invention. For example, it should be understood that the apparatus embodiments of Figures 6 and 8 are shown without the cap portion in order to better illustrate the underlying PCB configuration. However, during final assembly, the embodiments of Figures 6 and 8 may have all internal components completely enclosed within the body and including the cap portion of the body.

The embodiment of FIG. 10 also shows an external trigger mechanism 730 that includes a passive trigger switch 706 , a conductive bus bar 732 and a spacer portion 734 . As shown in FIG. 10, the conductive bus bar 732 may include a plurality of connection portions, wherein the conductive bus bar 732 in the illustrated embodiment includes a first connection point 736 and a second connection point 738, the first connection point 736 being configured to be in the One of the power terminals 704 is connected to the device 708, and a second connection point 738 is configured to connect to an external power source.

The conductive bus bars 732 may comprise any conductive material, such as a metallic material. In some embodiments, the conductive bus bars 732 include copper. Spacer portion 734 may include a non-magnetic material. The conductive bus bars 732 may be configured to allow current to flow to the pyrotechnic pins 710 and thus trigger the internal pyrotechnic features of the device 703 . Similar to the passive trigger switch in the embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 8, the passive trigger switch 706 is configured in an open state that does not allow current to pass through the conductive bus bar 732 and thus allows the pyrotechnic feature to be triggered.

When the current from device 703 reaches a threshold level, sufficient magnetic field is generated to trigger passive trigger switch 706 . This allows current from an external power source connected to the second connection 738 of the conductive bus bar 732 to flow through the conductive bus bar 732 to the pyrotechnic pin 710 and thus trigger the pyrotechnic feature of the device.

The threshold magnetic field required to activate the passive trigger switch 706 can be adjusted by adjusting the distance between the passive trigger switch 706 and the conductive bus bar 732, and thus determine the current required to activate the pyrotechnic circuit break feature sufficiently dangerous to warrant Level. This can be accomplished by adjusting the thickness of the non-magnetic spacer portion 734, for example. For example, FIG. 11 shows a close-up cross-sectional view of external trigger mechanism 730 of FIG. 10 , including passive trigger switch 706 , conductive bus bar 732 and spacer portion 734 , first connection point 736 and second connection point 738 . FIG. 11 also shows trip distance 750 , which corresponds to the thickness of non-magnetic spacer portion 734 .

Similar to the embodiments discussed above, passive trigger switch 706 may comprise a reed switch or other passive mechanism. The switch may be configured to activate when a predetermined magnetic field is generated due to a predetermined current level flowing through the power terminal 604, in which case the power terminal 604 is electrically connected to an external trigger mechanism. The strength of the magnetic field required to trigger the passive trigger switch 706, and thus the corresponding level of current flowing through the device 703 required to trigger the passive trigger switch 706, can be achieved by simply changing the passive trigger switch 706 and the conductive bus bars The trip distance between 732 and 750 can be adjusted. By increasing the thickness of the non-magnetic spacer portion 734, and thus moving the passive trigger switch 706 away from the conductive bus bars 732, a larger magnetic field, and thus a larger current, will be required to trigger the passive trigger switch 706 and thus trigger the passive trigger switch 706. Pyrotechnic features of device 703. Also by moving the passive trigger switch 706 closer to the conductive bus bar 732 , a smaller magnetic field, and thus less current, will be required to trigger the passive trigger switch 706 and thus the pyrotechnic feature of the device 703 .

It will be appreciated that different pyrotechnic passive switching circuits may be arranged in many different ways in accordance with the present invention. Figure 12 shows a simplified schematic diagram of one embodiment of a pyrotechnic passive switching circuit 800 in accordance with the present invention. The circuit 800 generally includes an operating power supply circuit 802 that includes a standard operating power supply 804 coupled to a workload 806 that is energized and powered by the power supply 802 . A contactor or fuse 808 is disposed in the circuit 800 to disconnect the electrical connection between the power source 804 and the load when hazardous current flows in the circuit 802 . It should be appreciated that the fuse 808 may also include features that act as a contactor to disconnect the power supply 804 from the load during normal operating conditions. It should also be understood that the fuse 808 may comprise a contactor, wherein the passive switching circuit 800 operates to change the state of the contactor to open the circuit path as described above.

A pyrotechnic activation circuit 810 may be included that is arranged to work with the operating power circuit 802 to prevent overcurrent conditions. Circuit 810 includes a pyrotechnic actuator/activator 812 as described above, arranged to change the state of fuse 808 when activated. The circuit also includes an overcurrent actuated pyrotechnic fuse trigger 814 disposed adjacent the circuit 802 at a location that allows it to sense an overcurrent condition in the circuit 802. In the embodiment shown, trigger 814 may comprise a reed switch, although it should be understood that many different alternative arrangements may be used. The flip-flop 814 may be placed in many different locations relative to the circuit 802, such as adjacent to a power supply terminal as described above, or adjacent to other conductors in the circuit that carry operating current. The circuit 810 may also include an auxiliary power source 816 that may be coupled to the pyrotechnic actuator 812 when the fuse trigger closes in response to the elevated current level.

During operation, fuse 808 is closed, allowing operating mains power 804 to power load 806 . When normal current levels flow through circuit 802 , trigger 814 remains open and auxiliary power source 816 is disconnected from pyrotechnic actuator 812 . When a current above a certain level (dangerously high) flows through circuit 802, flip-flop 814 closes in response to the elevated magnetic field. This connects the auxiliary power source to the pyrotechnic actuator 812 , which activates and opens the fuse 808 . This in turn disconnects the operating power source 804 from the load 806 to break the conductive path of the elevated current in the circuit 802 .

It should be understood that other circuits in accordance with the present invention may be arranged in many different ways with many different devices and elements. A number of different auxiliary power sources may be used, with some embodiments using an integrated battery or capacitor circuit to store a charge sufficient to activate the pyrotechnic actuator 812 . In other embodiments, the auxiliary power source may include an on-board low voltage power source that is still sufficient to activate the pyrotechnic actuator 812 .

FIG. 13 shows another embodiment of a pyrotechnic passive switching circuit 900 according to the present invention, which includes many of the same features as the switching circuit 800 shown in FIG. 12 . Circuit 900 includes an operating power supply circuit 902 that includes a standard operating power supply 904 coupled to a workload 906 . A contactor or fuse 908 is disposed in the circuit 900 to break the electrical connection between the power source 904 and the load 906 when hazardous current flows in the circuit 902 .

Circuit 900 includes a pyrotechnic actuator/activator 912 and an overcurrent actuated pyrotechnic fuse trigger 914 similar to those described above. However, in circuit 900, these elements are not arranged in a separate pyrotechnic activation circuit that works with the auxiliary power source to activate the pyrotechnic actuator 912. Rather, these elements are integrated with the operating power supply circuit 902, and the flip-flop 914 is arranged to sense the elevated current in the circuit 902 and is also coupled to the circuit 902 at the conductors carrying the elevated current. In the embodiment shown, flip-flop 914 is coupled to the circuit conductors in parallel with fuse 908, but it should be understood that it may be arranged in other ways.

During normal operation, flip-flop 914 is open and power from power source 904 is conducted to load 906 through fuse 908 . When trigger 914 senses the elevated current, it closes and the elevated current passes through trigger 914 to pyrotechnic actuator 912 , activating the actuator and opening fuse 908 . This disrupts the normal conduction path between the power source 904 and the load 908.

The flip-flop 914 is also arranged such that the elevated current from the power supply 904 rapidly ruptures or otherwise destroys the flip-flop 914 , thereby breaking the current path through the flip-flop 914 . Trigger 914 carries a current long enough to activate the actuator, but is destroyed shortly thereafter. This causes the power supply 904 to be electrically isolated from the load 906 and any elevated current paths to be destroyed. It should be understood that trigger 914 and actuator 912 may have elements that contain them during rupture or activation, eg, an encapsulating material like epoxy.

It should also be understood that the elements of a circuit according to the present invention may be coupled together using many different electrical conductors. This can include conductive paths or wires on a printed circuit board. It will also be appreciated that the above-described circuit may be arranged on and integrated with a contactor or fuse to provide an easy-to-use and compact device. Circuit 900 may provide certain advantages, such as not requiring a separate auxiliary power source to activate pyrotechnic actuator 912 . This can result in a simplified and cheaper device.

Although the invention has been described in detail with reference to certain preferred configurations of the invention, other versions are possible. Embodiments of the invention may include any combination of compatible features shown in the various figures, and these embodiments should not be limited to those expressly shown and discussed. Therefore, the spirit and scope of the present invention should not be limited to the above-mentioned versions.

The foregoing is intended to cover all modifications and alternative constructions falling within the spirit and scope of the present invention, wherein no part of this disclosure, expressly or implicitly, is intended to be exclusive if not set forth in any claim in the public domain.

Claims (21)

1. An electrical switching device, comprising: case; an internal component within the housing, the internal component configured to change the state of the switching device from a closed state that allows current flow through the switching device to an open state that interrupts current flow through the switching device; a pyrotechnic feature configured to interact with the internal component to transition the switching device from the closed state to the open state when the pyrotechnic feature is activated; a passive trigger switch structure configured to activate the pyrotechnic feature when triggered, the passive trigger switch structure configured to be responsive to a magnetic field reaching a threshold strength when a threshold current level flows through the switching device trigger; and A power supply terminal is electrically connected to the internal component for connection to an external circuit. 2. The electrical switching device of claim 1, wherein the passive trigger switch comprises a reed switch. 3. The electrical switching device of claim 1, wherein the passive trigger switch is connected to a PCB. 4. The electrical switching device of claim 3, wherein the threshold strength of the magnetic field is determined at least in part by a distance of the passive trigger switch from at least one of the power terminals. 5. The electrical switching device of claim 4, wherein the PCB includes a plurality of passive trigger switch mounting features. 6. The electrical switching device of claim 5, wherein the plurality of passive trigger switch mounting features are configured at locations at different distances from at least one of the power terminals such that the locations correspond to for different desired trigger thresholds based on different magnetic field threshold strengths. 7. The electrical switching device of claim 3, further comprising at least one core structure. 8. The electrical switching device of claim 7, wherein the core structure at least partially surrounds at least one of the power terminals. 9. The electrical switching device of claim 8, wherein the threshold strength of the magnetic field is determined by the distance of the passive trigger switch from a portion of the at least one core structure. 10. An electrical switching device, comprising: case; an internal component within the housing, the internal component configured to change the state of the switching device from a closed state that allows current flow through the switching device to an open state that interrupts current flow through the switching device; a pyrotechnic feature configured to interact with the internal component to transition the switching device from the closed state to the open state when the pyrotechnic feature is activated; a passive trigger switch structure configured to activate the pyrotechnic feature when triggered, the passive trigger switch structure configured to trigger in response to an elevated current signal flowing through the switching device, the passive trigger switch structure A source trigger switch is set to use the elevated current signal to activate the pyrotechnic feature. 11. The electrical switching device of claim 10, wherein the passive trigger switch comprises a reed switch. 12. The electrical switching device of claim 10, wherein the passive trigger switch is connected to a PCB. 13. The electrical switching device of claim 12, wherein the PCB includes a plurality of passive trigger switch mounting features. 14. The electrical switching device of claim 13, wherein the plurality of passive trigger switch mounting features are configured at locations at different distances from at least one of the power terminals such that the locations correspond to Different desired trigger thresholds for different magnetic field threshold strengths. 15. The electrical switching device of claim 10, further comprising a power supply terminal, wherein the passive trigger switch is configured to trigger in response to an increased current in the power supply terminal. 16. An electrical system comprising: a working power supply circuit including a working power supply coupled to a working load through a current path, with a contactor located between the power supply and the load; a pyrotechnic trigger circuit, including a trigger/switch, arranged to sense an elevated current in the operating power circuit; and A pyrotechnic actuator that activates the trigger/switch to operate on the contactor to open the current path in the operating power circuit. 17. The system of claim 16, wherein the contactor includes an internal component within the housing, the internal component configured to change the state of the switching device from a closed state that allows current to flow through the contactor to a Disconnects the open state of the current flowing through the contactor. 18. The system of claim 17, wherein the pyrotechnic actuator interacts with the internal component to transition the contactor from the closed state when the pyrotechnic actuator is activated to the open state. 19. The system of claim 17, wherein the trigger circuit uses the elevated current to activate the pyrotechnic actuator. 20. The system of claim 17, wherein the trigger circuit uses an auxiliary power source to activate the pyrotechnic actuator. 21. The system of claim 20, wherein the auxiliary power source comprises a battery, a capacitor circuit, or a low voltage power source.

Images