Electrical interruption switch, in particular for interrupting high currents at high voltages

Abstract

An electrical interruption switch for interrupting high currents at high voltages includes a casing, surrounding a contact unit defining a current path through the switch, and a pyrotechnic material, comprising a gas and/or shock wave-generating, activatable material. The contact unit has first and second connection contacts and a separation region. The pyrotechnic material and contact unit are formed such that a current to be interrupted is supplied to the contact unit via the first connection contact and discharged therefrom via the second connection contact, or vice versa. When the pyrotechnic material is ignited, the separation region is exposed to a gas pressure and/or shock wave, such that the separation region is torn open, caved in or separated. At least one chamber in the switch, at least partially delimited by the separation region, is filled with a filling material.

Claims

1. An electrical interruption switch for interrupting high currents at high voltages, the electrical interruption switch comprising: a casing, which surrounds a contact unit defining a current path through the electrical interruption switch, and a pyrotechnic material, which comprises an activatable material, the activatable material being one or more of gas-generating and shock wave-generating, activatable material, wherein the contact unit has a first and second connection contact and a separation region, wherein the pyrotechnic material and the contact unit are formed such that a current to be interrupted is supplied to the contact unit via the first connection contact and is discharged therefrom via the second connection contact, or vice versa, and that, when the pyrotechnic material is ignited, the separation region is exposed to one or more of a gas pressure and shock wave generated by the activatable material, such that the separation region is torn open, caved in or separated, wherein: at least one chamber in the electrical interruption switch, which is at least partially delimited by the separation region, is substantially completely filled with a filling material, such that the separation region is in direct contact with the filling material.

2. The electrical interruption switch, according to claim 1, wherein the separation region at least partially surrounds the at least one chamber.

3. The electrical interruption switch, according to claim 1, wherein the separation region separates the at least one chamber from a further chamber which surrounds the separation region annularly.

4. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 3, wherein, during the separation of the separation region the at least one chamber is connected to the further chamber.

5. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 3, wherein both the at least one chamber and the further chamber are substantially completely filled with the filling material.

6. The electrical interruption switch, according to claim 1, wherein the pyrotechnic material is located in the at least one chamber, which is filled with the filling material.

7. The electrical interruption switch, according to claim 1, wherein the contact unit has an upsetting region.

8. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 7, wherein the upsetting region surrounds a yet further chamber.

9. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 7, wherein the upsetting region is selected with regard to the material and the geometry such that a wall of the upsetting region is folded in a meandering fashion, as a result of the upsetting movement.

10. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 7, wherein the upsetting region is formed one or more of hollow-cylindrical and annular in cross section.

11. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 7, further comprising a sabot which, when the pyrotechnic material is ignited, is exposed to one or more of a gas pressure and shock wave generated by the activatable material in such a way that the sabot in the casing is moved in a movement direction from a starting position into an end position and in the process the upsetting region is plastically deformed, wherein the separation region is completely separated, and in the end position of the sabot an insulation spacing is achieved between separated ends of the separation region.

12. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 11, wherein the contact unit has a straight longitudinal axis, along which the sabot is displaceable, wherein the separation region and the upsetting region are arranged in each case on opposite sides of the sabot and bordering it, and are provided lying in the longitudinal axis.

13. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 11, wherein a third connection contact or a sensor is present which, when the sabot is moved in the direction of the end position, is one or more of mechanically and electrically actuated and thus serves as detection means for an effected tripping of the electrical interruption switch.

14. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 13, wherein the third connections contact is present, and wherein the third connection contact is electrically connected to the second connection contact.

15. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 14, wherein the third connection contact is present and wherein the third connection contact formed as a wire or rod is split into at least two parts at its end projecting into the electrical interruption switch, in order to be more easily deformable.

16. The electrical interruption switch, according to claim 1, wherein the separation region is formed one or more of hollow-cylindrical and annular in cross section.

17. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 1, wherein the activatable material comprises a shock wave-generating material, and wherein a wall of the separation region is configured to affect a shock wave guidance.

18. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 1, wherein the contact unit has a first connection contact region containing the first connection contact and a second connection contact region containing the second connection contact, which are arranged in each case on opposite sides of the separation region.

19. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 18, wherein the first connection contact region is arranged lying in the longitudinal axis and bordering the upsetting region, and the second connection contact region is arranged lying in the longitudinal axis and bordering the separation region.

20. The electrical interruption switch according to claim 18, wherein the first connection contact region is one or more of hollow-cylindrical and annular in cross section.

Description

(1) The invention is explained in more detail below with reference to the embodiments represented in the drawings. All features which are described in relation to a particular figure can also be transferred to the interruption switches of the other figures, provided this is technically possible:

(2) FIG. 1 shows a longitudinal cross-section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state, wherein the connecting element does not have a channel, and the one chamber and the further chamber are filled with the filling material;

(3) FIG. 2 shows a longitudinal section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state, as in FIG. 1, wherein a third connection contact, the so-called center electrode, is provided in the first contact region;

(4) FIG. 3 shows a longitudinal section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state with a third connection contact, wherein the connecting element does not have a channel, and only the combustion chamber is filled with the filling material;

(5) FIG. 4 shows a longitudinal section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state with a third connection contact, wherein the connecting element does not have a channel, and only the further chamber is filled with the filling material;

(6) FIG. 5 shows a longitudinal section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state with a third connection contact, wherein the connecting element here has a channel, and both the one chamber, the further chamber, the channel and the tube of the upsetting region (the yet further chamber) are filled with the filling material;

(7) FIG. 6 shows a longitudinal section through the embodiment in FIG. 5 in the tripped state; the separation region is torn open, the sabot has pushed the tube of the upsetting region together in a meandering fashion and thus greatly enlarged the separating distance between the two contact points of the separation region;

(8) FIG. 7 shows a longitudinal section through a further embodiment of an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state, wherein the sabot is installed as a fixed impact element; here there is no upsetting region;

(9) FIG. 8 shows a longitudinal section through an interruption switch according to the invention in the initial state, as in FIG. 1, wherein a third connection contact is provided and in which none of the chambers is filled with a filling agent;

(10) FIG. 9 shows by way of example the circuit diagram of an electric circuit with a current source (Batt 1) and any desired consumer R2, into which the interruption switch according to the invention is incorporated. The state of the interruption switch before it is tripped is shown; the first contact region (thick) is still connected to the second contact region (thin). From this, the action of the center electrode as short-circuit element can also be recognized, provided it is inserted;

(11) FIG. 10 shows the possible design of the combustion chamber wall, lying opposite the mini detonator inserted here by way of example, for guiding shock waves: formed concave at the top, formed convex at the bottom; in place of the pointed cones shown, hollows or domes are also possible and useful;

(12) FIG. 11 shows the introduction of the pyrotechnic material into the space via the previously thus-named combustion chamber or the switch separator; both volumes are here filled with filling material again;

(13) FIG. 12 shows the depressing of the sabot or of the separation region through the reaction of the pyrotechnic material which is now housed outside the casing and in the case of which the pressure energy is introduced into the casing via a connecting tube;

(14) FIG. 13 shows an interruption switch according to the invention before the pyrotechnic material is triggered, which is constructed mirror-symmetrical and thus has two separation regions and two upsetting regions on opposite sides;

(15) FIG. 14 shows the interruption switch from FIG. 13 after the ignition device is tripped.

(16) FIG. 15 shows an arrangement in which an interruption switch according to the invention is connected in parallel with a safety fuse.

(17) FIG. 16 shows an arrangement in which an interruption switch according to the invention is connected in series with two safety fuses.

(18) FIG. 17A shows a separation region of an interruption switch according to the invention with two circumferential grooves.

(19) FIG. 17B shows an interruption switch according to the invention with a separation region according to FIG. 17A.

(20) FIG. 18A shows a separation region of an interruption switch according to the invention with a circumferential thickening (small lump).

(21) FIG. 18B shows an interruption switch according to the invention with a separation region according to FIG. 18A.

(22) The embodiment of an interruption switch 1 according to the invention represented in FIG. 1 comprises a casing 3 in which a contact unit 5, also called connecting element, is arranged. The casing 3 is formed such that it withstands a pressure, generated inside the casing, which is generated in the case of a pyrotechnic tripping of the interruption switch 1, without the risk of damage or even bursting. The casing 3 can in particular consist of a suitable metal, preferably steel. In this case, an insulation layer 7 which consists of a suitable insulating material, for example a plastic, can be provided on the inner wall of the casing 3. Polyoxymethylene (POM) can be used here for example as plastic for this purpose. In the case of higher voltages, flashovers or an electrical contact between the contact unit 5, which of course consists of a conductive metal, for example of copper, and the casing 3 are hereby avoided, in particular during and after the tripping of the interruption switch 1. However, electrically non-conductive materials such as ceramic, POM, PA6 or ABS are also possible here as casing material, which, however, as a rule have to be suitably reinforced, for example by ribs. In these cases, the wall thickness of the casing 3 will also usually turn out to be thicker than in the case of a metallic casing.

(23) The protective cap 85 shown in FIG. 1 is only present when the casing 3 is closed by a locking nut 21. When the casing is depressed after tripping the casing tube 3 would expand in diameter here (the flow of forces is interrupted here), and the screw thread would disengage here, and the assembly would thus burst. The protective cap 85 prevents this expansion and is omitted if the casing 3 is in one piece or is welded on both sides to the washer 21 and the closure 31 which are then present here.

(24) In the embodiment example represented, the contact unit 5 is formed as a switch tube 9 depressed in the upsetting region by the sabot 25b, with the result that it is formed as a tube only in the separation 27 and the upsetting 23 region. In the embodiment example represented, the switch tube 9 has a first connection contact 11, in a first connection contact region 12, with a larger diameter and a second connection contact 13, in a second connection contact region 14, with a smaller diameter. Adjoining the first connection contact 11 is a flange 15 extending radially outwards, which is braced on an annular insulator element A 17, which consists of an insulating material, for example a plastic, in such a way that the switch tube 9 cannot be moved out of the casing 3 in the axial direction. The plastic used for this can be polyoxymethylene, ABS or nylon, but ceramics are also possible and in special cases are useful. For this purpose, the insulator element A 17 has an annular shoulder, on which the flange 15 of the switch tube 9 is braced. In addition, the insulator element A 17 insulates the casing 3 from the switch tube 9. The annular insulator element A 17, in an axially outer region, has an internal diameter which substantially corresponds to the external diameter of the switch tube 9 in the region of the first connection contact 11. As a result, a sealing action is achieved, which is strengthened by an additional annular sealing element 19, for example an O-ring. The insulator element A 17 can also be connected to the switch tube 9 via a press fit, or injection-molded onto it. The insulator element A 17 and thus the switch tube 9 or the contact unit 5 is held in the casing 3 on the respective end face of the interruption switch 1 by means of a locking nut 21 or a welded-in washer 21, or fixed in the casing 3 in this way. The locking nut 21 or the washer 21 can consist of metal, preferably steel. It is hereby also ensured that the switch tube cannot escape from the casing 3 if the plastic parts of the interruption switch 1 soften or burn, even if the interruption switch 1 is tripped again in this state. This is because the external diameter of the flange 15 is chosen to be greater than the internal diameter of the locking nut 21.

(25) However, the casing 3 can of course also be reshaped on the end face represented on the left in FIG. 1 during the assembly of the interruption switch 1, in such a way that a part of the casing 3 extending radially inwards fixes the insulator element 17. If the casing 3 consists of plastic, the insulator element 17 can also be omitted.

(26) The switch tube 9 has an upsetting region 23 adjoining the flange 15 in the axis of the switch tube 9, the upsetting region 23 of the switch tube 9 having a wall 24. The wall thickness of the switch tube 9 in the upsetting region 23, which has a predetermined axial extent, is selected and adapted to the material in such a way that, when the interruption switch 1 is tripped, as a consequence of a plastic deformation of the switch tube 9 in the upsetting region 23, the upsetting region 23 is shortened in the axial direction by a predetermined distance.

(27) In the axial direction of the switch tube 9, a flange 25a follows the upsetting region 23 on which a sabot 25b is seated in the embodiment example represented. The sabot 25b, which in the embodiment example represented consists of an insulating material, for example a suitable plastic, engages around the switch tube 9 with its part 25b in such a way that an insulating region of the sabot 25b engages between the outer circumference of the flange 25a and the inner wall of the casing 3. If a pressure acts on the surface of the sabot 25b, a force is generated which compresses the upsetting region 23 of the switch tube 9 via the flange 25a. This force is chosen such that, during the tripping operation of the interruption switch 1, upsetting of the upsetting region 23 occurs, wherein the sabot 25b is moved out of its starting position (status prior to the tripping of the interruption switch 1) into an end position (after the completion of the switching operation).

(28) As can be seen from FIG. 1, the sabot part 25b can be chosen such that its external diameter substantially corresponds to the internal diameter of the casing 3, with the result that an axial guidance of the flange 25a and thus also an axially guided upsetting movement is achieved during the switching operation.

(29) After the pressing operation, the lugs of the insulator 17 and of the sabot 25b lying near the casing 3 engage over each other completely, with the result that the upsetting region 23, which has been pushed together in a meandering fashion after the tripping and the upsetting operation, is completely surrounded by electrically insulating materials.

(30) Adjoining the sabot 25b or the flange 25a of the switch tube 9 or of the contact unit 5 is a separation region 27 which in turn is preferably adjacent to a flange 29 of the switch tube 9 in the axial direction. The second connection contact 13 of the switch tube 9 then follows the flange 29. The flange 29 in turn serves to fix the switch tube 9 or the contact unit 5 securely in the casing 3 in the axial direction. This purpose is served by an annular region of the casing 3 (not provided with a reference number) extending radially inwards and a closure 31, which is provided between a corresponding stop face of the flange 29, the inner wall of the end-face annular region 3a of the casing 3, and the axial inner wall of the casing 3 and which annularly engages around the second connection contact of the switch tube 9. The flange 29 canas shown in FIG. 1engage in the closure 31 in the axial direction. As an alternative to this it can also be placed on the closure 31 in the axial direction (see FIGS. 3 to 6). The closure 31 can consist of metal, in particular steel.

(31) If the closure 31 does not consist of a metal or a ceramic but rather of a plastic, a metal disc with a diameter which is greater than the right-hand opening of the casing must be introduced after the flange 29 in order, in the event of firein the event of fire the plastic parts are no longer there of courseto prevent parts from escaping from the casing.

(32) If the casing 3, the closure 31 and the locking nut/washer 21 are made of steel, it is possible to join these parts to each other by electron-beam or ultrasonic welding. Joining by laser beam is also possible.

(33) In the embodiment example represented, during the assembly of the interruption switch 1, the sabot 25b is pushed onto the switch tube 9 from the side of the connection contact 13 and must therefore be dimensioned such that its internal diameter is greater than or equal to the external diameter of the flange 29.

(34) The closure 31 is designed as an annular component, which has an external diameter which substantially corresponds to the internal diameter of the casing 3, and an internal diameter which substantially corresponds to the external diameter of the flange 29 or the second connection contact 13.

(35) An ignition device 35 with pyrotechnic material, often also called mini detonator or priming screw here, is provided in the axial end of the switch tube 9 in the region of the second connection contact 13. The external circumference of the ignition device 35 is sealed off from the inner wall of the switch tube 9 or of the second connection contact 13 by a sealing element (dark circular element in recess), for example an O-ring. To axially fix the ignition device 35, a small shoulder can be provided in the inner wall of the switch tube 9 or of the second connection contact 13, wherein during the assembly of the interruption switch 1 the ignition device is pushed into the switch tube 9 as far as the shoulder. To axially fix the ignition device 35, a locking element 39 is then screwed into the second connection contact 13. The electrical connection lines 41 of the ignition devices 35 can be passed outwards through an opening in the annular closure 31. For complete sealing and fixing, the interior of the locking element 39 can be potted, in particular with a suitable epoxy resin. This then serves simultaneously to relieve strain on the connection lines 41. In the region where the connection lines 41 enter the ignition device 35, the connection lines can be fixed using a potting compound 57. In FIG. 1, the locking element 39 is provided with a screw thread in order that it can be screwed into the second connection contact 13 of the switch tube 9 but later, if the assembly is implemented in series, for cost reasons it is merely pushed into the second connection contact 13, preferably formed as a tubular part, and then crimped in, clinched or curled.

(36) The closure 31 can consist of a metal, in particular steel. This has the advantage of the connection of potential between the casing 3 and the second connection contact 13. In this way the casing knows where it belongs with respect to the potential. The latter is important in high-voltage circuits in order not to obtain any undesired electric arcs with parts having no connection of potential. In addition, the casing 3 shields the inner region of the interruption switch 1 from electromagnetic radiation, e.g. a radar beam.

(37) The separation region 27 is dimensioned such that it at least partially tears open due to the generated gas pressure or the generated shock wave of the mini detonator 35, with the result that the pressure or the shock wave can also propagate out of the one chamber (combustion chamber 61) into the further chamber 63 designed as a surrounding annular space. To facilitate the tearing open, the wall of the switch tube 9 can also have one or more openings or holes in the separation region 27. In addition, an ignition mixture 43 can also be provided in the separation region 27 on the side of the further chamber 63. The openings and the ignition mixture are preferably covered with a protective lacquer 55 (shown by way of example in FIG. 5). The ignition mixture 43 can also be covered with a layer of natural rubber to protect against the influences of the filling material. In the event that the actuation of the mini detonator 35 fails, the ignition mixture 43 can serve to bring about a passive shutting off, i.e. to separate the separation region 27, without the ignition device 35 having been actively tripped: in the case of excess current, the center part of the separation region 27 in particular heats up very strongly and very quickly and in the process ignites the ignition mixture when the ignition temperature is reached, which then again suitably ignites the ignition device 35 or the pyrotechnic material with it.

(38) The ignition mixture 43 can likewise already be a priming charge, which already generates a shock wave on its own when heated to its ignition temperature and thus already tears open the separation regionnow inwards hereand then depresses the sabot. In this case, it would therefore not be necessary at all for the ignition device 35 or the mini detonator to act or ignite as well. If it is not desired to trip the assembly actively, this priming charge would already also be sufficient to sever the switch separator and to upset the upsetting region 23 of the switch tube 9.

(39) The ignition device 35 for igniting the pyrotechnic material (ignition device) can consist of a simple, rapidly heatable glow wire. The activation of the ignition device can be effected by a corresponding electrical actuation. However, the ignition device 35 can of course also be formed in any other desired way which brings about an activation of the pyrotechnic material, also in the form of a conventional igniter, an ignition tablet, a squib or a mini detonator.

(40) In addition or instead, a passive activation of the interruption switch 1 can be provided. For this, the increase in temperature of the material of the switch tube 9 in the separation region 27 is utilized. In this case, there should be as direct a contact as possible between the pyrotechnic material and the inner wall and/or outer wall of the switch tube 9 in the separation region 27. In addition, a more easily activatable material, in particular an ignition mixture or priming charge 43, can also be provided in close proximity to or applied to the inner wall and/or outer wall of the separation region.

(41) FIG. 1 shows such a layer of an ignition mixture 43 which is applied in paste form to the outer wall of the separation region. If a filling material is poured in, this ignition mixture must be protected from the filling material on all sides, for example by a layer of epoxy resin or natural rubber.

(42) The electrical resistance and thus also the thermal behavior of the separation region 27 can be influenced by the provision of openings in the wall of the separation region 27 (in conjunction, of course, with the wall thickness of the separation region and the dimensioning of the radii at the transitions of the separation region, which substantially determine the heat outflow from the separation region and its rupturing behavior). As a result, the current-time integral at which the interruption switch 1 trips passively can be defined or set. The inertia can also be influenced by such a dimensioning.

(43) In the case of an activation of the interruption switch 1 by means of the ignition device 35 or by means of a passive activation, a pressure or a shock wave is thus generated on the side of the sabot 25b facing away from the upsetting region 23, as a result of which the sabot is exposed to a corresponding axial force. This force is chosen by a suitable dimensioning of the pyrotechnic material such that in the upsetting region 23 the switch tube 9 is plastically deformed, torn open or caved in, and then the sabot is moved in the direction of the first connection contact 11. The pyrotechnic material is dimensioned such that, after the breaking open or caving in of the separation region 27 of the switch tube 9, the sabot 25b is moved into the end position represented in FIG. 6.

(44) Immediately after the activation of the pyrotechnic material, the separation region 27 is therefore at least partially torn open or caved in. If the tearing open or caving in does not already take place before the start of the axial movement of the sabot 25b over the entire circumference of the separation region 27, a remaining portion of the separation region, which causes another electrical contact, is completely torn open by the axial movement of the sabot 25b.

(45) Depending on the dimensioning of the separation region and of the pyrotechnic material, it is also conceivable that the separation region initially does not tear open after the activation but rather that the gas pressure acts only through corresponding openings in the wall of the separation region, also in the annular region surrounding the separation region 27. The tearing open of the separation region 27 can then be effected substantially only by the axial force on the sabot 25b, which also leads to the axial movement thereof.

(46) The breaking open behavior can also be further controlled by corresponding choice of the pyrotechnic material and optionally of the ignition mixture comprised of it.

(47) In particular, the gas pressure generated by the burn-off or the shock wave generated can be well controlled by introducing readily gasifiable liquids or solids into the space in which the pyrotechnic material is contained or into which the hot gases generated penetrate. Thus, in particular water, in solution with the filling material or in the form of microcapsules, gels etc., increases the gas pressure considerably. An increase in the gas pressure brought about in this way can turn out to be even more extreme if the water introduced into the combustion chamber is superheated, in particular because the strongly heated water experiences explosive decompression when the separation region 27 breaks open.

(48) In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, there is located in the combustion chamber 61 and in the further chamber 63 a filling material 45, which supports the propagation of the shock wave in the case of the detonation or deflagration of the pyrotechnic material, with the result that in this way less activatable material has to be used and the walls of the separation region 27 can be kept thick enough that the assembly can still be used even with high operating currents. The filling material is preferably at the same time an extinguishing material, with the result that, after the interruption switch has been switched, it can attenuate and cool or extinguish the formation of an electric arcif not completely prevent itbetween the separated ends of the separation region 27.

(49) For inserting the filling material 45 into the further chamber 63, the interruption switch can have a casing hole 71 and a threaded hole 73, wherein the threaded hole 73 is present in the closure 31 and follows the casing hole, with the result that a passage is present through the casing and the closure 31 from outside into the further chamber 63. After the further chamber has been filled, the holes are closed for example with a screw. Of course, these openings can also be closed by another conventional method, such as e.g. pressing in a ball, by soldering or welding shut. Through the use of a membrane here, a type of overload valve could additionally be created, which opens when the assembly is overloaded, i.e. when the pressure builds up too strongly in the casing 3, before the casing 3 is destroyed. In this case, more than one hole or membrane would possibly also be provided in the closure in order to ensure the escaping mass flow of fluid and gas necessary in the event of overloading. In other words, the interruption switch according to the invention can therefore have an overload valve, which is provided between the exterior of the casing 3 and the further chamber 63.

(50) FIG. 2 shows an interruption switch 1 according to the invention, which is substantially identical to the interruption switch 1 in FIG. 1, but has, inside the switch tube 9 on the axial side facing the first connection contact 11, an insulator element B 53 as filling piece, through which a third connection contact 81, the so-called center electrode, which preferably has a fanned out or split end 83, can be passed from the outer space of the interruption switch into the yet further chamber 65. The insulator element B 53 also serves as closure for the yet further chamber 65. The insulator element B 53 is preferably formed as a cylindrical part. The insulator element B 53 can be made of a plastic, such as for example PEEK, polyoxymethylene, ABS or nylon. The cylindrical insulator element B 53 is pressed into the hollow-cylindrical first connection contact 11. The insulator element B 53 preferably has recesses 37 for receiving sealing elements, which bring about a sealing between the axial outer wall of the insulator element B 53 and the inner wall of the first connection contact 11. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the combustion chamber 61 and the further chamber 63 are filled with the filling material 45, while the yet further chamber 65 is not filled with filling material 45. However, it is also conceivable according to the invention to also fill the yet further chamber 65 with the filling material 45. It is also conceivable according to the invention that none of the chambers 61, 63 and 65 is filled with a filling material 45. It is also conceivable that, in place of the center electrode 81, only a sealing screw (not shown) is used.

(51) FIG. 3 shows an interruption switch 1 according to the invention which is constructed substantially identical to the interruption switch 1 of FIG. 2. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 only the combustion chamber 61 is filled with the filling material 45. In contrast to the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, no filling material 45 is located in the further chamber 63. If the separation region 27 is torn open as a result of the detonation or of the deflagration of the pyrotechnic material, the filling material 45 can spread out of the combustion chamber 61 also into the yet further chamber 65. In this way, the filling material 45 can also act as extinguishing agent and prevent or at least greatly impede the formation of an electric arc between the two separated ends of the separation region 27. For the sake of completeness it may also be mentioned that the flange 29 in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 is placed on the closure 31 and is not present countersunk as in the embodiment of FIG. 2.

(52) The embodiment shown in FIG. 4 is substantially identical to the embodiment shown in FIG. 3 with the only difference being that no filling material 45 is present in the combustion chamber 61, but filling material 45 is present only in the further chamber 63. Here, as a result of the detonation or the deflagration of the pyrotechnic material, there is a build-up of pressure in the combustion chamber 61, with the result that the separation region 27 is completely or partially torn open in the direction of the further chamber 63, with the result that a shock wave, which acts on the sabot 25b, can then propagate through the filling material 45. At the same time, filling material 45 can also penetrate into the region of the combustion chamber 61, with the result that it can serve as extinguishing agent for preventing or impeding an electric arc between the separated ends of the separation region.

(53) The embodiment shown in FIG. 5 shows an interruption switch 1 according to the invention, which has a channel 49 of the contact unit 5, which extends underneath the sabot 25b, in particular in the flange 25a, preferably centrally in the axial direction, and connects the combustion chamber 61 to the yet further chamber 65. In the embodiment example represented, the contact unit 5 is thus formed further as a continuous switch tube 9. In this embodiment, the combustion chamber 61, the channel 49, the yet further chamber 65 and the further chamber 63 can all be filled with the filling material 45. All further designs of the embodiment shown in FIG. 5 are substantially identical to the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 to 4. The channel 49 ensures that, when the interruption switch 1 is tripped and during the associated movement of the sabot 25 from the starting position into the end position, the increasing volume in the region of the combustion chamber 61 and the further chamber 63 is also refilled with filling material 45. Through the movement of the sabot 25 from the starting position into the end position, filling material 45 in the yet further chamber 65 is compressed and injected through the channel 49 in the direction of the region of the combustion chamber 61 and here directly onto the separation point 27. In this way it is ensured that an electric arc between the separated parts of the separation region 27 does not form or is at least greatly damped.

(54) As can be seen from FIG. 6, which represents the end state of the contact unit 5 or of the switch tube 9 after a tripping of the interruption switch 1, the upsetting region 23 of the contact unit 5 is preferably formed such that the wall of the contact tube 9 is folded in a meandering fashion in the upsetting region 23. The meandering folding is preferably to be effected predominantly outside the yet further chamber 65 in order to avoid a folded region being placed in front of the inlet opening of the channel 49 and preventing the filling agent 45 from being squeezed out. The folding in a region outside the receiving volume is however preferred in any case because of the internal pressure of the filling agent 45 that results during the upsetting of the switch tube 9, without additional measures needing to be provided for this, such as predetermined kinking points or the like. However, the desired folding properties can of course be generated or optimized by such additional measures. In particular, predetermined kinking points can be introduced on the outer and/or inner wall by corresponding structuring of the upsetting region 23. The axial projections of the insulator element A 17 and of the second sabot part 25b that engage in each other in the end state are also formed with respect to their axial length such that, during the upsetting operation and in the end state, they prevent the radially outer parts of the folded region of the wall of the switch tube 9 from touching the inner wall of the casing 3. Damage to the insulation layer 7 is hereby prevented if such an insulation layer is provided on the inner wall of the casing 3.

(55) In variants without such an insulation layer 7, a metallic casing 3 is also hereby prevented from inadvertently being set at the same electrical potential as the first connection contact 11 after the tripping.

(56) FIG. 6 shows the end state of an interruption switch according to FIG. 5 only by way of example. Apart from the slight changes in the construction (absence of the channel 49), the end state of the interruption switches according to FIGS. 2 to 4 is identical.

(57) The embodiment of an interruption switch 1 according to the invention represented in FIG. 7, like the previously described embodiments, comprises a casing 3 in which a contact unit 5 is arranged. The casing 3 is formed such that it withstands a pressure, generated inside the casing, which is generated in the case of a pyrotechnic tripping of the interruption switch 1, without the risk of damage or even bursting. The casing can in particular consist of a suitable metal. In this case, an insulation layer 7 which consists of a suitable insulating material, for example a plastic, can be provided on the inner wall of the casing. In the case of higher voltages, flashovers or an electrical contact between the contact unit 5, which of course consists of a conductive metal, for example of copper, and the casing 3 are hereby avoided, in particular during and after the tripping of the interruption switch 1. The casing as a whole can also consist of an insulating material, in particular of ceramic or a suitable plastic. In this case, the wall thickness of the casing 3 will usually turn out to be thicker than in the case of a metallic casing; as a rule, reinforcing ribs must then also be introduced here.

(58) However, in the embodiment example represented, the contact unit 5 is designed solid in the region of the first connection contact 11, in the region 23 and in the region of the impact element 25, in contrast to the previously mentioned embodiments. Only in the separation region 27 is the contact unit 5 formed as a tube, as in the previously described embodiments.

(59) The advantage of this embodiment, in which there is no upsetting of the earlier upsetting region 23, is that after the breaking open of the separation region no fluid is removed from the separation region here as a result of the movement of the sabot 25b, the whole switching operation is thus effected virtually stationary. Thus the shutoff operation is concluded more quickly. A further advantage is that the loop-in resistance of the assembly, i.e. the ohmic resistance between the connection contact regions 11 and 13, is minimal here, and even with high operating currents much less heat loss is generated here, which would have to be dissipatedthe relatively thin material in the upsetting region 23 in the other embodiments of the assembly is actually solid metal here. The relatively small separation distance after the tripping of the assembly and the relatively small movement of the filling material during the switching operation can be mentioned as a disadvantage here.

(60) The embodiment of an interruption switch 1 according to the invention represented in FIG. 8 comprises a casing 3 in which a contact unit 5, also called connecting element, is arranged. The casing 3 is formed such that it withstands a pressure, generated inside the casing, which is generated in the case of a pyrotechnic tripping of the interruption switch 1, without the risk of damage or even bursting. The casing can in particular consist of a suitable metal, preferably steel. In this case, an insulation layer 7 which consists of a suitable insulating material, for example a plastic, can be provided on the inner wall of the casing. Polyoxymethylene can be used here for example as plastic for this purpose. In the case of higher voltages, flashovers or an electrical contact between the contact unit 5, which of course consists of a conductive metal, for example of copper, and the casing 3 are hereby avoided, in particular during and after the tripping of the interruption switch 1. However, electrically non-conductive materials such as ceramic, POM, PA6 or ABS are also possible here as casing material, which, however, as a rule have to be suitably reinforced, for example by ribs. In these cases, the wall thickness of the casing 3 will also usually turn out to be thicker than in the case of a metallic casing.

(61) In the embodiment example represented, the contact unit 5 is formed as a switch tube 9 depressed in the upsetting region by the sabot 25b, with the result that it is formed as a tube only in the separation 27 and the upsetting 23 region. In the embodiment example represented, the switch tube 9 has a first connection contact 11 with a larger diameter and a second connection contact 13 with a smaller diameter. Adjoining the first connection contact 11 is a flange 15 extending radially outwards, which is braced on an annular insulator element A 17, which consists of an insulating material, for example a plastic, in such a way that the switch tube 9 cannot be moved out of the casing 3 in the axial direction. The plastic used for this can be polyoxymethylene, ABS or nylon, but ceramics are also possible and in special cases are useful. For this purpose, the insulator element A 17 has an annular shoulder, on which the flange 15 of the switch tube 9 is braced. In addition, the insulator element A 17 insulates the casing from the switch tube 9. The annular insulator element A 17, in an axially outer region, has an internal diameter which substantially corresponds to the external diameter of the switch tube 9 in the region of the first connection contact 11. As a result, a sealing action is achieved, which is strengthened by an additional annular sealing element 19, for example an O-ring. The insulator element A 17 can also be connected to the switch tube 9 via a press fit, or injection-molded onto it. The insulator element A 17 and thus the switch tube 9 or the contact unit 5 is held in the casing 3 on the respective end face of the interruption switch 1 by means of a locking nut 21 or a welded-in washer 21, or fixed in the casing 3 in this way. The locking nut 21 or the washer 21 can consist of metal, preferably steel. It is hereby also ensured that the switch tube cannot escape from the casing if the plastic parts of the interruption switch 1 soften or burn, even if the interruption switch 1 is tripped again in this state. This is because the external diameter of the flange 15 is chosen to be greater than the internal diameter of the locking nut 21.

(62) However, the casing 3 can of course also be reshaped on the end face represented on the left in FIG. 8 during the assembly of the interruption switch 1 in such a way that a part of the casing extending radially inwards fixes the insulator element 17. If the casing consists of plastic, the insulator element 17 can also be omitted.

(63) The switch tube 9 has an upsetting region 23 adjoining the flange 15 in the axis of the switch tube 9. In the upsetting region 23 the wall thickness of the switch tube 9, which has a predetermined axial extent, is chosen and adapted to the material in such a way that, when the interruption switch 1 is tripped, as a consequence of a plastic deformation of the switch tube 9 in the upsetting region 23, the upsetting region is shortened in the axial direction by a predetermined distance.

(64) In the axial direction of the switch tube 9, a flange 25a, on which a sabot 25b is seated in the embodiment example represented, follows the upsetting region 23. The sabot 25b, which in the embodiment example represented consists of an insulating material, for example a suitable plastic, engages around the switch tube 9 with its part 25b in such a way that an insulating region of the sabot 25b engages between the outer circumference of the flange 25a and the inner wall of the casing 3. If a pressure acts on the surface of the sabot 25b, a force is generated which compresses the upsetting region 23 of the switch tube 9 via the flange 25a. This force is chosen such that, during the tripping operation of the interruption switch 1, upsetting of the upsetting region 23 occurs, wherein the sabot 25b is moved out of its starting position (status prior to the tripping of the interruption switch 1) into an end position (after the completion of the switching operation).

(65) As can be seen from FIG. 8, the sabot part 25b can be chosen such that its external diameter substantially corresponds to the internal diameter of the casing 3, with the result that an axial guidance of the flange 25a and thus also an axially guided upsetting movement is achieved during the switching operation.

(66) After the pressing operation, the lugs of the insulator 17 and of the sabot 25b lying near the casing engage over each other completely, with the result that the upsetting region 23, which has been pushed together in a meandering fashion after the tripping and the upsetting operation, is completely surrounded by electrically insulating materials.

(67) Adjoining the sabot 25b or the flange part 25a of the switch tube 9 or of the contact unit 5 is a separation region 27 which in turn is preferably adjacent to a flange 29 of the switch tube 9 in the axial direction. The second connection contact 13 of the switch tube 9 then follows the flange 29. The flange 29 in turn serves to fix the switch tube 9 or the contact unit 5 securely in the casing 3 in the axial direction. This purpose is served by an annular region of the casing 3 (not provided with a reference number) extending radially inwards and a closure 31, which is provided between a corresponding stop face of the flange 29, the inner wall of the end-face annular region 3a of the casing 3 and the axial inner wall of the casing 3, and which annularly engages around the second connection contact of the switch tube 9. The flange canas shown in FIG. 8engage in the closure 31 in the axial direction. As an alternative to this it can also be placed on the closure 31 in the axial direction (see FIGS. 3 to 6). The closure 31 can consist of metal, in particular steel.

(68) If the closure 31 does not consist of a metal or a ceramic but rather of a plastic, a metal disc with a diameter which is greater than the right-hand opening of the casing must be introduced after the flange 29 in order, in the event of firein the event of fire the plastic parts are no longer there of courseto prevent parts from escaping from the casing.

(69) If the casing 3, the closure 31 and the locking nut/washer 23 are made of steel, it is possible to join these parts to each other by electron-beam or ultrasonic welding. Joining by laser beam is also possible.

(70) In the embodiment example represented, during the assembly of the interruption switch 1, the sabot 25b is pushed onto the switch tube 9 from the side of the connection contact 13 and must therefore be dimensioned such that its internal diameter is greater than or equal to the external diameter of the flange 29.

(71) The closure 31 is designed as an annular component, which has an external diameter which substantially corresponds to the internal diameter of the casing 3, and an internal diameter which substantially corresponds to the external diameter of the flange 29 or the second connection contact 13.

(72) An ignition device 35 with pyrotechnic material, often also called mini detonator or priming screw here, is provided in the axial end of the switch tube 9 in the region of the second connection contact 13. The external circumference of the ignition device 35 is sealed off from the inner wall of the switch tube 9 or of the second connection contact 13 by a sealing element (dark circular element in recess), for example an O-ring. To axially fix the ignition device 35, a small shoulder can be provided in the inner wall of the switch tube 9 or of the second connection contact 13, wherein during the assembly of the interruption switch 1 the ignition device is pushed into the switch tube 9 as far as the shoulder. To axially fix the ignition device 35, a locking element 39 is then screwed into the second connection contact 13. The electrical connection lines 41 of the ignition devices 35 can be passed outwards through an opening in the annular closure 31. For complete sealing and fixing, the interior of the locking element 39 can be potted, in particular with a suitable epoxy resin. This then serves simultaneously to relieve strain on the connection lines 41. In the region where the connection lines 41 enter the ignition device 35, the connection lines can be fixed using a potting compound 57. In FIG. 8, the locking element 39 is provided with a screw thread in order that it can be screwed into the second connection contact 13 of the switch tube 9 but later, if the assembly is implemented in series, for cost reasons it is merely pushed into the second connection contact 13 preferably formed as a tubular part, and then crimped in, clinched or curled.

(73) The closure 31 can consist of a metal, in particular steel. This has the advantage of the connection of potential between the casing 3 and the second connection contact 13. In this way the casing knows where it belongs with respect to the potential. The latter is important in high-voltage circuits in order not to obtain any undesired electric arcs with parts having no connection of potential. In addition, the casing 3 shields the inner region of the interruption switch 1 from electromagnetic radiation, e.g. a radar beam.

(74) The separation region 27 is dimensioned such that it at least partially tears open due to the generated gas pressure or the generated shock wave of the mini detonator 35, with the result that the pressure or the shock wave can also propagate out of the one chamber (combustion chamber 61) into the further chamber 63 designed as a surrounding annular space. To facilitate the tearing open, the wall of the switch tube 9 can also have one or more openings or holes in the separation region 27. In addition, an ignition mixture 43 can also be provided in the separation region 27 on the side of the further chamber 63. The openings and the ignition mixture are preferably covered with a protective lacquer 55 (shown by way of example in FIG. 5). The ignition mixture 43 can also be covered with a layer of natural rubber for protection against the influences of the filling material. In the event that the actuation of the mini detonator 35 fails, the ignition mixture 43 can serve to bring about a passive shutoff, i.e. to separate the separation region 27, without the ignition device 35 having been actively tripped: in the case of excess current, the center part of the separation region 27 in particular heats up very strongly and very quickly and in the process ignites the ignition mixture when the ignition temperature is reached, which then again suitably ignites the ignition device 35 or the pyrotechnic material with it.

(75) The ignition mixture 43 can likewise already be a priming charge, which already generates a shock wave on its own when heated to its ignition temperature and thus already tears open the separation regionnow inwards hereand then depresses the sabot. In this case, it would therefore not be necessary at all for the ignition device 35 or the mini detonator to act or ignite as well. If it is not desired to actively trip the assembly, this priming charge would already also be sufficient to sever the switch separator and to upset the upsetting region 23 of the switch tube 9.

(76) The ignition device 35 for igniting the pyrotechnic material (ignition device) can consist of a simple, rapidly heatable glow wire. The activation of the ignition device can be effected by a corresponding electrical actuation. However, the ignition device 35 can of course also be formed in any other desired way which brings about an activation of the pyrotechnic material, also in the form of a conventional igniter, an ignition tablet, a squib or a mini detonator.

(77) In addition or instead, a passive activation of the interruption switch 1 can be provided. For this, the increase in temperature of the material of the switch tube 9 in the separation region 27 is utilized. In this case, there should be as direct a contact as possible between the pyrotechnic material and the inner wall and/or outer wall of the switch tube 9 in the separation region 27. In addition, a more easily activatable material, in particular an ignition mixture or priming charge, can also be provided in close proximity to or applied to the inner wall and/or outer wall of the separation region.

(78) FIG. 8 shows such a layer of an ignition mixture 43 which is applied in paste form to the outer wall of the separation region. If a filling material is poured in, this ignition mixture must be protected from the filling material on all sides, for example by a layer of epoxy resin or natural rubber.

(79) The electrical resistance and thus also the thermal behavior of the separation region 27 can be influenced by the provision of openings in the wall of the separation region 27 (in conjunction, of course, with the wall thickness of the separation region and the dimensioning of the radii at the transitions of the separation region, which substantially determine the heat outflow from the separation region and its rupturing behavior). As a result, the current-time integral at which the interruption switch 1 trips passively can be defined or set. The inertia can also be influenced by such a dimensioning.

(80) In the case of an activation of the interruption switch 1 by means of the ignition device 35 or by means of a passive activation, a pressure or a shock wave is thus generated on the side of the sabot 25b facing away from the upsetting region 23, as a result of which the sabot is exposed to a corresponding axial force. This force is chosen by a suitable dimensioning of the pyrotechnic material such that the switch tube 9 is plastically deformed in the upsetting region 23, and consequently the sabot is moved in the direction of the first connection contact 11. The pyrotechnic material is dimensioned such that, after the breaking open of the separation region 27 of the switch tube 9, the sabot 25b is moved into the end position represented in FIG. 6.

(81) Immediately after the activation of the pyrotechnic material, the separation region 27 is therefore at least partially torn open. If the tearing open does not already take place before the start of the axial movement of the sabot 25b over the entire circumference of the separation region 27, a remaining portion of the separation region, which causes another electrical contact, is completely torn open by the axial movement of the sabot 25b.

(82) Depending on the dimensioning of the separation region and of the pyrotechnic material, it is also conceivable that the separation region initially does not tear open after the activation but rather that the gas pressure acts only through corresponding openings in the wall of the separation region, also in the annular region surrounding the separation region 27. The tearing open of the separation region 27 can then be effected substantially only by the axial force on the sabot 25b, which also leads to the axial movement thereof.

(83) The rupturing behavior can also be further controlled by corresponding choice of the pyrotechnic material and optionally of the ignition mixture comprised of it.

(84) In particular, the gas pressure generated by the burn-off or the shock wave generated can be well controlled by introducing readily gasifiable liquids or solids into the space in which the pyrotechnic material is contained or into which the hot gases generated penetrate. Thus, in particular water, in solution with the filling material or in the form of microcapsules, gels etc., increases the gas pressure considerably. An increase in the gas pressure brought about in this way can turn out to be even more extreme if the water introduced into the combustion chamber is superheated, in particular because the strongly heated water experiences explosive decompression when the separation region 27 breaks open.

(85) The interruption switch shown in FIG. 8 has, inside the switch tube 9 on the axial side facing the first connection contact 11, an insulator element B 53 as filling piece, through which a third connection contact 81, the so-called center electrode, which preferably has a fanned out or split end 83, can be passed from the outer space of the interruption switch into the yet further chamber 65. The insulator element B 53 also serves as closure for the yet further chamber 65. The insulator element B 53 is preferably formed as a cylindrical part. The insulator element B 53 can be made of a plastic, such as for example PEEK, polyoxymethylene, ABS or nylon. The cylindrical insulator element B 53 is pressed into the hollow-cylindrical first connection contact 11. The insulator element B 53 preferably has recesses 37 for receiving sealing elements, which bring about a sealing between the axial outer wall of the insulator element B 53 and the inner wall of the first connection contact 11. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the combustion chamber 61 and the further chamber 63 are filled with the filling material 45, while the yet further chamber 65 is not filled with filling material. However, it is also conceivable according to the invention to also fill the yet further chamber 65 with the filling material 45. It is also conceivable according to the invention that none of the chambers 61, 63 and 65 is filled with a filling material. It is also conceivable that, in place of the center electrode 81, only a sealing screw (not shown) is used.

(86) The embodiment shown in FIG. 8 is simpler than the embodiments shown in FIGS. 2 to 5. However, here only material thicknesses in the separation region of up to approx. 200 m with 5 to 10 times the quantity of required pyrotechnic material can be broken open. The switching limit of this simple embodiment is only approx. 1000 A direct current at 800 V. In contrast, the switching limit in embodiments with filling material is approx. 30 kA direct current with of the pyrotechnic material used.

(87) FIG. 9 shows by way of example a circuit diagram of an electric circuit before activation, in which an interruption switch S1 according to the invention is integrated. Here, the first connection contact (thick) is connected to the load circuit, consisting of R2, L1, C2 and R5, the second connection contact (thin) is connected, for example, to the positive pole of the current source (Batt 1). The third connection contact (the so-called center electrode) is here connected to earth or to the negative pole of the current source or to the negative terminal of the consumer. If the electric circuit is now interrupted by switching the interruption switchthe switch contact shown flips from thin to the terminal of the center electrode in thickthen, shortly after the start of the upsetting operation in the assembly, the mechanical energy stored electrically in the capacitance C2 and above all the mechanical energy stored in the whole inductance of the load circuit L1 is discharged or short-circuited to earth, by-passing the separation point via the center electrode, which here acts as a short-circuit electrode. In this way, the actual separation point in the assembly is unloaded and the formation of an electric arc there is greatly weakened or attenuated, the separation point in the assembly has to dissipatively convert much less energy and the high switching voltage generated here during shutting off is lowered considerably.

(88) Here, L2 is the inductance of the current source (Batt 1) and of the wiring to the interruption switch, R1 is the internal resistance of the current source, and C3 is the capacitance of the current source. R3 is the loss resistance of the wiring to the interruption switch. R2 is the load resistance and L1 is the inductance of the load circuit including wiring to the interruption switch. C2 is the capacitance of the whole load circuit and R5 is the loss resistance of the wiring to the interruption switch. C1 and R4 are an RC combination, i.e. a so-called spark quenching combination for switch contacts which are opening, such as is usually used for relay contacts, but it does not necessarily need to be present in the circuit when the assembly is used and, as a rule, it is even omitted for cost reasons.

(89) In the upper partial image, FIG. 10 shows a part of a switch tube 9 in the region of the combustion chamber 61 with a concave design of the combustion chamber wall, which lies opposite the pyrotechnic material, while in the lower partial image this combustion chamber wall is formed convex. The pointed cones shown here can, however, also have another shape, for example be correspondingly rounded. In particular, when the combustion chamber 61 is filled with filling material, preferably silicone oil, and the pyrotechnic material is a mini detonator, a shock wave guidance results here which, at the optimal angle this is strongly dependent on the combustion chamber material, the spacing between the mini detonator and the wall, the filling material and the type of pyrotechnic materialgreatly strengthens the mechanical effect of the shock wave generated and thus allows even thicker separator material to break open with a minimum of pyrotechnic material. In the lower partial image, FIG. 10 likewise shows a part of a switch tube 9, with a convex design of the combustion chamber wall.

(90) In FIG. 11 the ignition device 35 is accommodated not in the previous chamber 61 but in the chamber 63; the electrical terminals of the ignition device are passed out of the casing at the top. The sequence is similar to that in the embodiments described in FIGS. 1 to 5 but here the separation region 27 is not torn open from inside but compressed from the outside and the sabot 25b is already depressed beforehand. The suppression or impeding of the electric arc at the separation point is again effected by the circulating filling material, preferably the silicone oil.

(91) This embodiment is to be used in the case of very large assemblies in which the required pyrotechnic material can no longer be housed in chamber 63in this case the mini detonator would also, for example, become a detonator of normal size.

(92) In FIG. 12 the ignition device 35 is located just outside the casing: here, the pressure energy required for depressing the separation region 27 and sabot 25b would, for example, be introduced into the assembly with fluid connection from outside via a tube system. This embodiment would be suitable for particularly large assemblies or circuit breakersfor all of these cases, however, other pressure generators would then also have to be taken into consideration, i.e. compressed gas storage, CO.sub.2 cartridges, chemical gas generators or vaporizers, but also gasifiers of all types.

(93) All the sealing elements 19 (or O-rings) in FIGS. 1 to 8 and FIGS. 11 to 12, which can be present in the recesses 37, can be made of nitrile butadiene rubber, Viton or silicone, wherein nitrile butadiene rubber is preferred.

(94) FIG. 13 shows an interruption switch according to the invention with two separation regions 27 on opposite sides in the state before the ignition device 35 is tripped. The interruption switch is constructed mirror-symmetrically, and thus also has two upsetting regions 23. The functioning of each mirror-symmetrical part is substantially as described with respect to FIG. 1. The chamber 61 and/or the further chamber 63 and/or the yet further chamber 65 can be filled with a filling material (not shown). FIG. 14 shows the interruption switch from FIG. 13 after the ignition device 35 has been tripped.

(95) FIG. 15 shows an arrangement in which an interruption switch 1 according to the invention is connected in parallel with a safety fuse 87, as described further above. The current I divides as a result of the parallel connection into partial currents I.sub.1 and I.sub.2, wherein I.sub.1 is the current of the safety fuse 87 and I.sub.2 is the current of the interruption switch 1.

(96) FIG. 16 shows by way of example an arrangement in which an interruption switch 1 according to the invention is connected in series with two safety fuses 87, to which the current I is applied. The two safety fuses 87 here are connected before and after the interruption switch 1, i.e. connected to the negative and positive terminals of the interruption switch 1. In such an arrangement the safety fuses have the task mentioned further above.

(97) FIGS. 15 and 16 furthermore each show an interruption switch which comprises a rubber ball 89 as an example of the above-named material, which locally weakens the influence of the shock waves forming when the interruption switch is tripped. For this purpose, the rubber ball 89 is preferably mounted inside the hollow nut 33.

(98) FIG. 17A shows a hollow-cylindrical separation region 27 with two circumferential grooves 91as described generally further above. FIG. 17B shows an interruption switch 1 according to the invention with a separation region 27as shown in FIG. 17A.

(99) FIG. 18A shows a hollow-cylindrical separation region 27 with a circumferential thickening (small lump) 93as described generally further above. Furthermore, the separation region 27 shown in FIG. 18A has a circumferential groove 91 in each case to the left and right of the circumferential thickening 93. FIG. 18B shows an interruption switch 1 according to the invention with a separation region 27as shown in FIG. 18A.

(100) The interruption switch 1 in FIGS. 17B and 18B also has a heat sink 1 95 and a heat sink 2 97as are described generally further above. The heat sinks 95 and 97 are only represented by way of example in these figures and can be combined with any further embodiment of the invention. The heat sink 1 95 is preferably mounted in the further chamber on the sabot, and the heat sink 2 97 is mounted on the internal insulation of the casing 3. The heat sink 1 95 can be formed circumferentially, i.e. tubular, or lamellar. The heat sink 2 97 preferably runs circumferentially on the inside of the casing 3 or the internal insulation thereof, i.e. is formed tubular.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

(101) 1 interruption switch, circuit breaker, assembly 3 casing 5 contact unit 7 insulation layer 9 switch tube, connecting element 11 first connection contact 13 second connection contact 15 flange 17 insulator element A 19 sealing element (O-ring) 21 locking nut/washer 23 upsetting region/region 25a flange 25b sabot 27 separation region 29 flange 31 closure 33 hollow nut/closure 35 ignition device with pyrotechnic material, mini detonator, igniter 37 recesses for sealing elements 39 locking element 41 electrical connection lines 43 ignition mixture 45 filling material 49 channel 53 insulator element B 57 potting compound 61 chamber/combustion chamber 63 further chamber 65 yet further chamber 71 casing hole 73 threaded hole 81 third connection contact 83 split end of the third connection contact 85 protective cap, omitted when the casing 3 is in one piece or is welded on both sides. 87 safety fuse 89 rubber ball 91 circumferential grooves 93 circumferential thickening (small lump) 95 heat sink 1 97 heat sink 2 I current I.sub.1 partial current I.sub.2 partial current S1 interruption switch with first, second and third connection contact thick first connection contact of the interruption switch thin second connection contact of the interruption switch Batt1 current source R1 internal resistance of the current source C3 capacitance of the current source L2 inductance from current source and wiring to the interruption switch R3 loss resistance of the wiring to the interruption switch R2 load resistance L1 inductance of the load circuit including wiring to the interruption switch C2 capacitance of the whole load circuit R5 loss resistance of the wiring to the interruption switch C1+R4 RC combination, so-called spark quenching combination for switch contacts which are opening center electrode third connection contact of the interruption switch, sensor unit, provided feedback about the state of the circuit breaker is only to be given, or short-circuit electrode.