ARC EXTINGUISHING ASSEMBLY AND CIRCUIT BREAKER COMPRISING SAME

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an arc extinguishing assembly including a sealing member and a circuit breaker including same. The sealing member is pressed and elastically deformed between coupling surfaces of the arc extinguishing assembly and the circuit breaker, and accordingly, a gap between the coupling surfaces of the arc extinguishing assembly and the circuit breaker is sealed. Accordingly, when an arc is generated, a temporary pressure increase in the circuit breaker increases and the arc can be smoothly extended.

Claims

1. An arc extinguishing assembly, comprising: an exhaust which is inserted into an accommodation space having an opening formed on one side, and covers the opening; and plate-shaped side portions which are respectively coupled to both side surfaces of the exhaust inside the accommodation space and spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance to face each other, wherein the exhaust comprises: an exhaust body having both sides coupled to the side portion in a first direction, an accommodation portion formed to penetrate through the center, and mounting portions formed to protrude from both sides in a second direction intersecting with the first direction; an exhaust cover which is coupled to one side surface of the exhaust body to cover the accommodation portion; and a sealing member which is coupled to the exhaust body, wherein mounting spaces in which the mounting portions are mounted are formed on both sides of the opening in the second direction, respectively, and wherein the sealing member comprises: a first sealing portion which is located between the mounting portion and the mounting space and extends by a predetermined length in the first direction; a second sealing portion which is located between the exhaust cover and the exhaust body and extends from both sides of the exhaust body in the first direction by a predetermined length in the second direction; and a third sealing portion which is located between the mounting portion and the mounting space and connects both ends of the first sealing portion and both ends of the second sealing portion.

2. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 1, wherein the sealing member comprises an elastic member.

3. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 1, further comprising: an arc extinguishing assembly fastening member which penetrates the exhaust cover and the mounting portion, and has one end penetrating the exhaust cover and the mounting portion fastened to the mounting space, wherein the sealing member is configured to be elastically deformed by being pressed by a fastening force of the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member.

4. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 1, wherein the second sealing portion comprises: a second base portion which extends by a predetermined length in the second direction; and a wing which is formed to protrude from the second base portion in a direction away from the accommodation portion and extends by a predetermined length in the second direction.

5. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 4, wherein the length of the exhaust cover in the first direction is formed to be longer than the exhaust body, wherein cover mounting grooves for mounting both sides of the exhaust cover are formed on both sides of the opening in the first direction, and wherein the wing is located between the cover mounting grooves and the both sides of the exhaust cover.

6. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 5, wherein the wing is configured to be elastically deformed by being pressed between one side surface of the cover mounting groove and the both sides of the exhaust cover.

7. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 5, wherein a wing accommodation groove is formed to be recessed by a predetermined depth in a part of the exhaust cover facing the cover mounting groove.

8. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 5, wherein the thickness of the wing is formed to be larger than the value of the distance between the one side surface of the cover mounting groove and the exhaust cover.

9. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 1, wherein a first sealing portion insertion groove and a third sealing portion insertion groove are provided in a part of the mounting portion facing the mounting space, wherein the first sealing portion is inserted into the first sealing portion insertion groove, and wherein the third sealing portion is inserted into the third sealing portion insertion groove.

10. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 9, wherein the first sealing portion is elastically deformed by being pressed between one side surface of the mounting space and the first sealing portion insertion groove, and wherein the third sealing portion is elastically deformed by being pressed between the other side surface of the mounting space and the third sealing portion insertion groove.

11. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 9, wherein the thickness of the first sealing portion is formed to be larger than the value of the distance between one side surface of the mounting space and the first sealing portion insertion groove, and wherein the thickness of the third sealing portion is formed to be larger than the value of the distance between the other side surface of the mounting space and the third sealing portion insertion groove.

12. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 4, wherein the second sealing portion comprises a hook insertion portion which extends from the second base portion in a direction close to the accommodation portion by a predetermined length and then protrudes by a predetermined length toward the exhaust body.

13. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 12, wherein an insertion groove is provided to be recessed by a predetermined depth on one side surface of the exhaust body facing the hook insertion portion, and wherein the hook insertion portion is accommodated in the insertion groove.

14. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 4, wherein among parts of the second base portion, a second protrusion is provided on the other side surface opposite to one side surface facing the exhaust cover.

15. The arc extinguishing assembly of claim 1, wherein a first protrusion is formed on the first sealing portion to extend by a predetermined length in a direction in which the mounting portion protrudes, and wherein among parts of the mounting portion, a predetermined space into which the first protrusion is inserted is provided to be recessed on one side surface facing the first protrusion.

16. A circuit breaker, comprising: a circuit breaker body formed with an accommodation space with one side open inside; and an arc extinguishing assembly comprising an exhaust which is inserted into the accommodation space and covers an opening of the accommodation space, wherein the exhaust comprises: an exhaust body through which an accommodation portion is formed to penetrate the center, and mounting portions are formed to protrude from both sides; an exhaust cover which is coupled to one side surface of the exhaust body to cover the accommodation portion; and a sealing member which is coupled to the exhaust body, wherein mounting spaces in which the mounting portions are mounted are formed on both sides of an opening of the accommodation space in a first direction in which the mounting portion protrudes, respectively, wherein in the mounting spaces, a first coupling surface facing the mounting portion is provided; and a third coupling surface facing the mounting portion is provided on both sides of the first coupling surface, respectively, wherein second coupling surfaces on which both sides of the exhaust are supported are provided on both sides of an opening of the accommodation space, in a second direction intersecting with the first direction, respectively, and wherein the sealing member comprises: a first sealing portion which is located between the mounting portion and the first coupling surface; a second sealing portion which is located between the exhaust cover and the exhaust body, on both sides in the second direction; and a third sealing portion which is located between the mounting portion and the third coupling surface and connects both ends of the first sealing portion and both ends of the second sealing portion.

17. The circuit breaker of claim 16, wherein the second sealing portion comprises: a second base portion which is located between the exhaust cover and the exhaust body, on both sides in the second direction; and a wing which is formed to protrude from the second base portion in a direction away from the accommodation portion.

18. The circuit breaker of claim 17, wherein the wing is located between the second coupling surface and the both sides of the exhaust cover.

19. The circuit breaker of claim 18, wherein the wing is configured to be elastically deformed by being pressed between the second coupling surface and the both sides of the exhaust cover.

20. The circuit breaker of claim 19, wherein a wing accommodation groove is provided to be recessed by a predetermined depth, in a part of the exhaust cover facing the second coupling surface.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0066] FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating a conventional arc extinguishing assembly.

[0067] FIG. 2 is a cross-sectional perspective view illustrating a path in which an arc is extended in the arc extinguishing assembly of FIG. 1.

[0068] FIG. 3 is an exploded perspective view of the circuit breaker according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0069] FIG. 4 is an exploded perspective view of the arc extinguishing assembly according to FIG. 3.

[0070] FIG. 5 is an exploded perspective view of the exhaust according to FIG. 4.

[0071] FIG. 6 is a plan view and a perspective view of the exhaust body according to FIG. 5.

[0072] FIG. 7 is a rear view and a perspective view of the exhaust body according to FIG. 5.

[0073] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of the sealing member according to FIG. 5.

[0074] FIG. 9 is a front view and a side view of the sealing member according to FIG. 5.

[0075] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of the circuit breaker according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 11 is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker according to FIG. 10 taken along line XI-XI;

[0077] FIG. 12 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A of FIG. 11.

[0078] FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker according to FIG. 10 taken along line XIII-XIII.

[0079] FIG. 14 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B of FIG. 13.

[0080] FIG. 15 is a cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker according to FIG. 10 taken along line XV-XV.

[0081] FIG. 16 is an enlarged cross-sectional view of area C of FIG. 15.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

[0082]

TABLE-US-00001 1: Circuit breaker 2: Circuit breaker body 2a: Accommodation space 2b1: First coupling surface 2b2: Second coupling surface 2b3: Third coupling surface 2c: Mounting space coupling groove 2d: Mounting space 2e: Cover mounting groove 3: Arc extinguishing assembly 4: Arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 10: Exhaust 20: Side portion 21: Snap fastening hole 22: Grid fastening hole 23: Arc runner fastening hole 30: Grid 31: Grid body 32: Grid fastening protrusion 40: Arc runner 41: Arc runner body 42: Arc runner fastening protrusion 100: Exhaust cover 110: Gas outlet 120: First cover coupling hole 130: Second cover coupling hole 140: Wing accommodation groove 200: Filter 300: Insulation plate 310: Exhaust hole 400: Exhaust body 410: Mounting portion 411: First mounting portion coupling hole 412: Second mounting portion coupling hole 413: First sealing portion insertion groove 414: Third sealing portion insertion groove 420: Frame portion 420a: Accommodation portion 421: Support 422: Side coupling portion 423: Side coupling space 424: Snap protrusion 425: First insertion groove 426: Second insertion groove 500: Sealing member 510: First sealing portion 511: First base portion 512: First protrusion 520: Second protrusion 521: Hook insertion portion 522: Second base portion 522a: Second protrusion 523: Wing 530: Third sealing portion 610: Fastening bolt 620: Fastening nut

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0083] Hereinafter, the arc extinguishing assembly and circuit breaker including the same according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0084] In the following description, the descriptions of some components may be omitted in order to clarify the characteristics of the present disclosure.

1. Definitions of Terms

[0085] The term ‘circuit breaker’ used below means a device that is connected to a circuit to detect a situation in which a leakage current or overcurrent flows or a short circuit occurs in the circuit, and blocks the flow of current in the circuit when such a situation occurs. In an exemplary embodiment, the circuit breaker may be provided as an air circuit breaker.

[0086] The term ‘normal current’ used below means a current in a state where the circuit breaker does not perform a blocking operation. Specifically, it means a current flowing within a preset current range value in the breaker, a current in a state where current leakage does not occur, or a current in a state where a short circuit does not occur.

[0087] The term ‘abnormal current’ used below means a current in a state where the circuit breaker performs a blocking operation. Specifically, it means a current exceeding a preset current range value in the breaker, a current in a state where current leakage occurs, or a current in a state where a short circuit occurs.

[0088] The term ‘arc’ used below means a plasma of electrons and ions generated when a movable contact point and a stationary contact point in a state where current flows through contact with each other are spaced apart.

[0089] The terms ‘front side’, ‘rear side’, ‘left’, ‘right’, ‘top’ and ‘bottom’ used below may be understood with reference to the coordinate system illustrated in FIGS. 1, 3 to 8 and 10.

2. Description of the Configuration of the Circuit Breaker 1 According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

[0090] Hereinafter, the configuration of the circuit breaker 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure will be described with reference to FIG. 3. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, parts of the entire arc extinguishing assembly 3 are omitted.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 3, a circuit breaker 1 configured to block the flow of current when an abnormal current occurs is illustrated.

[0092] The circuit breaker 1 includes a circuit breaker body 2 having an accommodation space 2a opened upwardly therein. An arc extinguishing assembly 3 is inserted into the accommodation space 2a, and the open upper side of the accommodation space 2a is covered by the inserted arc extinguishing assembly 3. The arc extinguishing assembly 3 is coupled with the circuit breaker body 2 around the opening of the accommodation space 2a.

[0093] A mounting space 2d into which both sides of an exhaust 10 of the arc extinguishing assembly 3 are inserted is formed to be recessed on the front and rear sides of the opening of the accommodation space 2a.

[0094] Both sides, the front side and the rear side of the exhaust 10 are respectively inserted into the mounting space 2d and supported by the first coupling surface 2b1 and the third coupling surface 2b3. Specifically, the exhaust 10 is supported up and down by the first coupling surface 2b1, and supported to the left and right by the third coupling surface 2b3.

[0095] A cover mounting groove 2e into which both sides of the exhaust cover 100 (refer to FIG. 5) of the exhaust 10 are recessed is formed to be recessed on the left and right sides of the opening of the accommodation space 2a.

[0096] Both sides, left and right sides of the exhaust cover 100 are respectively inserted into the cover mounting groove 2e and supported by the second coupling surface 2b2. Specifically, the exhaust cover 100 is supported vertically by the cover mounting groove 2e.

[0097] A mounting space coupling groove 2c for coupling the arc extinguishing assembly 3 to the mounting space 2d is formed to be recessed in the mounting space 2d. Specifically, a mounting space coupling groove (2c) is formed to be recessed in the center of the first coupling surface 2b1.

[0098] One end of the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 penetrating through the front side and the rear side of the exhaust 10 is inserted and coupled to the mounting space coupling groove 2c.

[0099] The exhaust 10 is coupled to the circuit breaker body 2 by a fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 and the mounting space coupling groove 2c. That is, the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 are coupled by a fastening force of the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 and the mounting space coupling groove 2c.

[0100] A stationary contact (not illustrated) and a movable contact (not illustrated) are provided in the accommodation space 2a of the circuit breaker body 2 to cut off or energize a power supply side and a load side.

[0101] The stationary contact is connected to a power supply side, and the movable contact is connected to a load side.

[0102] The stationary contact and the movable contact are disposed on the lower side of the arc extinguishing assembly 3.

[0103] When a normal current flows in the circuit, the stationary contact and the movable contact are in contact with each other to conduct electricity, thereby causing a current to flow between the power supply side and the load side.

[0104] When an abnormal current flows in the circuit, the movable contact is rotated by a predetermined angle in a direction away from the stationary contact. Accordingly, the stationary contact and the movable contact are spaced apart from each other, and the flow of current between the power source side and the load side is blocked.

[0105] Since the structures of the movable contact and the stationary contact for energizing or cutting off the power supply side and the load side are known techniques, the detailed descriptions of the structures will be omitted.

[0106] When an abnormal current is generated and the stationary contact and the movable contact are spaced apart from each other, an arc is generated between the stationary contact and the movable contact. In this case, the arc is a plasma of high-temperature electrons and ions, and if it is not extinguished quickly, damage to the components constituting the circuit breaker may occur. Therefore, it is preferable that the arc generated between the stationary contact and the movable contact is sufficiently extinguished through the arc extinguishing assembly 3 located above the stationary contact and the movable contact.

[0107] The arc is moved upwards and extended in the grid 30 (refer to FIG. 4) and the arc runner 40 (refer to FIG. 4) inside the arc extinguishing assembly 3, and then discharged to the outside through the center of the exhaust section 10 of the circuit breaker 1. When an arc is generated, the pressure inside the accommodation space 2a is temporarily increased by the metal gas generated between the stationary contact and the movable contact. In order for the arc to be sufficiently pushed upward and extended, the amount of temporary pressure increase in the accommodation space 2a must be sufficiently formed before the arc is discharged through the center of the exhaust 10.

[0108] When the fluid in the accommodation space 2a leaks through the gap between the exhaust 10 and the coupling surfaces 2b1, 2b2, 2b3, problems may occur in that the amount of temporary pressure increase inside the accommodation space 2a is insufficient when an arc is generated. As a result, the arc cannot be sufficiently pushed upwards, and problems may occur in that the extension length of the arc is shortened.

[0109] In consideration of this problem, a structure for improving the arc extinguishing performance by increasing the force pushing the arc upward is required. That is, a structure capable of suppressing leakage of the fluid inside the accommodation space 2a between the exhaust 10 and the coupling surfaces 2b1, 2b2, 2b3 is required. In other words, a structure capable of sealing the gap between the exhaust 10 and the coupling surfaces 2b1, 2b2, 2b3 is required.

[0110] The arc extinguishing assembly 3 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is provided with a sealing member 500 for sealing the gap between the exhaust 10 and the coupling surfaces 2b1, 2b2, 2b3, and in this regard, it will be described in detail below.

3. Description of the Arc Extinguishing Assembly 3 According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

[0111] Referring to FIG. 4, the arc extinguishing assembly 3 includes an exhaust 10, a side portion 20, a grid 30 and an arc runner 40.

[0112] A pair of plate-shaped side portions 20 are coupled to the left and right sides of the exhaust 10, and a grid 30 and an arc runner 40 are coupled between the plate-shaped side portions 20.

[0113] After the arc generated from the lower side of the arc extinguishing assembly 3 is extended in the grid 30 and the arc runner 40, it is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker 1 through the exhaust 10.

[0114] Hereinafter, each configuration will be described. However, after a brief description of the exhaust 10, it will be described in more detail in a separate table of contents.

[0115] (1) Description of the Exhaust 10

[0116] First, the exhaust 10 will be described.

[0117] The exhaust 10 has a substantially rectangular shape. The exhaust 10 includes an exhaust body 400 and an exhaust cover 100 covering an upper surface of the exhaust body 400.

[0118] In an exemplary embodiment, the exhaust cover 100 may be formed in a size that can cover all of the upper surface of the exhaust body 400. That is, the exhaust cover 100 may have a larger area than the exhaust body 400.

[0119] A gas outlet 110 through which an arc can be emitted is formed in the center portion of the exhaust cover 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas outlet 110 may be formed in plurality.

[0120] Snap protrusions 424 for coupling with the side portions 20 are formed to protrude on both sides (left and right) of the exhaust body 400. A pair of side portions 20 are coupled to the left and right sides of the exhaust body 400, respectively.

[0121] (2) Description of the Side Portion 20

[0122] Next, the side portion 20 will be described.

[0123] The side portion 20 are provided in a pair and is formed in a plate shape. The side portions 20 are positioned to face each other, and a grid 30 and an arc runner 40 to be described below are disposed between the side portions 20 and are coupled to the side portions 20.

[0124] A plurality of grid fastening holes 22 and arc runner fastening holes 23 are formed through the center of the side portion 20. A grid fastening protrusion 32 and an arc runner fastening protrusion 42 to be described below are respectively inserted into the grid fastening hole 22 and the arc runner fastening hole 23.

[0125] Herein, the grid fastening hole 22 and the arc runner fastening hole 23 are formed to have a size corresponding to the grid fastening protrusion 32 and the arc runner fastening protrusion 42 or a slightly smaller size. Accordingly, the grid fastening protrusions 32 and the arc runner fastening protrusions 42 may be press-fitted into the grid fastening holes 22 and the arc runner fastening holes 23, and the side portions 20, the grid 30 and the arc runner 40 may be combined.

[0126] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the grid fastening hole 22 and the arc runner fastening hole 23 are formed in a rectangular shape, but this may vary depending on the shapes of the grid fastening protrusion 32 and the arc runner fastening protrusion 42.

[0127] At the upper side of the side portion 20, the exhaust 10 is coupled between the side portions 20.

[0128] A snap fastening hole 21 for coupling with the exhaust 10 is formed to penetrate through the upper side of the side portion 20.

[0129] A pair of side portions 20 are slidably moved to the left and right side surfaces of the exhaust 10 in order to be coupled to the exhaust 10. When the side portion 20 is moved, the snap protrusions 424 protruding from the left and right sides of the exhaust body 400 are inserted into and coupled to the snap fastening holes 21.

[0130] Herein, the snap protrusion 424 is formed to be inclined in the insertion direction of the side portion 20. Accordingly, insertion of the snap protrusion 424 into the snap fastening hole 21 becomes easy. In addition, in a state where the snap protrusion 424 is inserted into the snap fastening hole 21, the side portion 20 is not arbitrarily moved downward of the exhaust body 400.

[0131] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the snap fastening hole 21 is formed in a rectangular shape, but this may vary depending on the shape of the snap protrusion 424.

[0132] (3) Descriptions of the Grid 30 and Arc Runner 40

[0133] Next, the grid 30 will be described.

[0134] The grid 30 is formed in a plate shape, and is spaced apart from the front side by a predetermined distance from the rear side to be stacked in plurality. The grid 30 includes a grid body 31 and grid fastening protrusions 32 protruding from both sides of the grid body 31.

[0135] The grid fastening protrusions 32 protruding from both sides are inserted into the grid fastening holes 22, whereby the grid 30 may be fixed between the pair of side portions 20. The grid 30 may be formed of any material capable of applying electromagnetic attraction to the arc. In an exemplary embodiment, the grid 30 may be formed of an iron (Fe) material.

[0136] The arc is extended and moved between the plurality of grids 30. Accordingly, the arc voltage is increased, and the arc is cooled.

[0137] Next, the arc runner 40 will be described.

[0138] The arc runner 40 is formed in a plate shape, and is spaced apart from the plurality of grids 30 by a predetermined distance to the rear side.

[0139] The arc extends to the lower end of the arc runner 40 and flows along the arc runner 40. If the arc does not reach the arc runner 40, the arc extinguishing performance may be reduced. In consideration of this point, it is preferable to shorten the distance between the arc generation position and the arc runner 40.

[0140] To this end, the lower end of the arc runner 40 is bent toward the front side.

[0141] The arc runner 40 may be formed of any material capable of applying electromagnetic attraction to the arc. In an exemplary embodiment, the arc runner may be formed of an iron (Fe) material.

4. Description of the Configuration of the Exhaust 10 According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

[0142] Next, the configuration of the exhaust 10 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 to 9.

[0143] The exhaust 10 includes an exhaust cover 100, a filter 200, an insulation plate 300 and an exhaust body 400. The exhaust body 400 is provided with a sealing member 500 for sealing a gap between the exhaust 10 and the circuit breaker 1.

[0144] (1) Description of the Exhaust Cover 100

[0145] The exhaust cover 100 has a plate shape. The exhaust cover 100 is coupled to the upper surface of the exhaust body 400 to cover the upper surface of the exhaust body 400.

[0146] A gas outlet 110 for discharging the extinguished arc is formed to penetrate through the center of the exhaust cover 100. In an exemplary embodiment, the gas outlet 110 may be formed in plurality.

[0147] A first cover coupling hole 120 and a second cover coupling hole 130 for coupling with the exhaust body 400 are formed through both sides of the exhaust cover 100. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first cover coupling hole 120 and the second cover coupling hole 130 are formed on the front and rear sides of the exhaust cover 100.

[0148] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the first cover coupling hole 120 is formed in the center of the front side and the rear side of the exhaust cover 100, respectively. That is, two first cover coupling holes 120 may be provided.

[0149] In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the second cover coupling hole 130 is formed in each corner of the exhaust cover 100. That is, four second cover coupling holes 130 may be provided.

[0150] (2) Descriptions of the Filter 200 and the Insulation Plate 300

[0151] The filter 200 is inserted and accommodated in the accommodation portion 420a formed through the center of the exhaust body 400. A support portion 421 is formed to protrude from the front and rear sides of the accommodation portion 420a to support the inserted filter 200.

[0152] In an exemplary embodiment, the filter 200 may be formed of a material having pores through which a fluid can pass therein. In addition, the filter 200 may be formed by stacking a plurality of plates having pores through which a fluid can pass therein.

[0153] The filter 200 accommodated in the accommodation portion 420a is covered by the exhaust cover 100. When an arc is generated, the fluid in the accommodation space 2a passes through the filter 200 and then through the gas outlet 110 to be discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker 1.

[0154] The insulation plate 300 is a plate-shaped member through which a plurality of exhaust holes 310 are formed. The insulation plate 300 is fitted and fixed to the accommodation portion 420a from the lower side of the supporting part 421.

[0155] In an exemplary embodiment, the insulation plate 300 may be formed by stacking a plurality of insulation plate-shaped members. In the exhaust 10, the insulation plate 300, the filter 200 and the exhaust cover 100 are sequentially disposed from the lower side to the upper side. As a result, the extinguished arc is discharged to the outside of the circuit breaker 1 through the exhaust hole 310, the pores of the filter 200 and the gas outlet 110.

[0156] (3) Description of the Exhaust Body 400

[0157] Next, the exhaust body 400 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

[0158] Referring to FIG. 6, a plan view showing an upper side surface of the exhaust body 400 and a perspective view showing an upper side surface thereof are illustrated. Referring to FIG. 7, a rear view showing a lower side of the exhaust body 400 and a perspective view showing a lower side thereof are illustrated.

[0159] The exhaust body 400 includes a frame 420 through which the accommodation portion 420a is formed in the center and mounting portions 410 formed to protrude from both sides of the frame 420. In an exemplary embodiment, the exhaust body 400 may be formed in a substantially rectangular ring shape.

[0160] The mounting portion 410 is formed to protrude from the front side and the rear side of the frame portion 420, and is respectively inserted into the mounting space 2d of the circuit breaker body 2. The inserted mounting portion 410 is supported by the first coupling surface 2b1 and the third coupling surface 2b3 of the mounting space 2d.

[0161] In an exemplary embodiment, the mounting portion 410 may be formed in a size corresponding to the mounting space 2d. In order to prevent the fluid in the accommodation space 2a from leaking between the mounting portion 410 and the mounting space 2d, the mounting portion 410 is preferably formed in a size similar to that of the mounting space 2d.

[0162] A first mounting portion coupling hole 411 is formed through the center of the mounting portion 410. In a state where the mounting portion 410 is inserted into the mounting space 2d, the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 sequentially passes through the first cover coupling hole 120 and the first mounting portion coupling hole 411.

[0163] One end of the penetrating arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 is inserted into and coupled to the mounting space coupling groove 2c. Accordingly, the exhaust cover 100 and the exhaust body 400 are pressed toward the mounting space coupling groove 2c by the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4.

[0164] That is, the exhaust 10 is coupled to the circuit breaker body 2 by a fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly fastening member 4 and the mounting space coupling groove 2c.

[0165] A second mounting portion coupling hole 412 for coupling with the exhaust cover 100 is formed to penetrate through the left and right sides of the mounting portion 410. The lower end of the second mounting portion coupling hole 412 is formed in a square columnar space.

[0166] The fastening nut 620 is inserted into the lower end of the second mounting portion coupling hole 412, and one end of the fastening bolt 610 penetrating through the second cover coupling hole 130 and the second mounting portion coupling hole 412 is fastened with the fastening nut 620. Accordingly, the exhaust cover 100 and the exhaust body 400 are pressed to each other by the fastening bolt 610 and the fastening nut 620. Accordingly, the exhaust body 400 and the exhaust cover 100 may be firmly coupled to each other.

[0167] A first sealing portion insertion groove 413 into which a first sealing portion 510, which will be described below, is inserted, is formed to be recessed in a part of the lower surface of the mounting portion 410 connected to the frame portion 420 to be described below.

[0168] In addition, a third sealing portion insertion groove 414 into which a third sealing portion 530, which will be described below, is inserted, is formed to be recessed in a part of the left and right side surfaces of the mounting portion 410 connected to the frame portion 420 to be described below.

[0169] The first sealing portion insertion groove 413 is formed over the entire length of the left and right sides of the mounting portion 410 and is connected to the third sealing portion insertion groove 414.

[0170] Side coupling portions 422 are formed on both sides of the frame portion 420, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 may be formed to be lower than a part of the adjacent frame portion 420. That is, the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 may be formed to have a step difference from the upper surface of the adjacent frame portion 420.

[0171] A second sealing portion 520, which will be described below, is located in the stepped space.

[0172] In the side coupling portion 422, the side coupling space 423 into which the side portion 20 is inserted is formed to be recessed, respectively. In an exemplary embodiment, the side portion coupling space 423 may be formed to have a size corresponding to the upper side of the side portion 20.

[0173] Snap protrusions 424 are formed to protrude from the side coupling space 423. Accordingly, when the side portion 20 is inserted, the snap protrusion 424 is inserted into the snap fastening hole 21, and as a result, the arbitrarily upward and downward movement of the side portion 20 may be restricted.

[0174] A first insertion groove 425 for fixing a second sealing portion 520 to be described below is formed on the upper side of the side coupling space 423. In an exemplary embodiment, the first insertion groove 425 may be formed to have a size corresponding to a second protrusion 522a to be described below.

[0175] A second insertion groove 426 may be formed to be recessed in a part connected to a part of the adjacent frame portion 420 among parts of the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422. That is, the second insertion groove 426 may be formed to be recessed in the part closest to the accommodation space 420a among parts of the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422.

[0176] A hook insertion portion 521 to be described below is inserted into the second insertion groove 426, and the second insertion groove 426 is formed by a predetermined length in the front and rear sides. In an exemplary embodiment, the predetermined length may be a length corresponding to the length of the hook insertion portion 521.

[0177] A second sealing portion 520 to be described below is inserted between the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 and the exhaust cover 100 described above.

[0178] (4) Description of the Sealing Member 500

[0179] Next, the sealing member 500 will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 and 9.

[0180] Referring to FIG. 8, a perspective view of the sealing member 500 is illustrated, and referring to FIG. 9, a front view and a side view of the sealing member 500 are illustrated.

[0181] The sealing member 500 is a member coupled to the exhaust body 400 to seal a gap generated between the exhaust 10 and the circuit breaker body 2. In an exemplary embodiment, the sealing member 500 may be formed of an insulating material having an elastic force. In addition, the sealing member 500 may be formed of a material that can be elastically deformed by an applied pressure.

[0182] The sealing member 500 includes a first sealing portion 510, a second sealing portion 520 and a third sealing portion 530.

[0183] The first sealing portions 510 are formed to extend a predetermined distance in one direction, and are provided as a pair and are spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the one direction may be defined as a left and right direction, and the pair of first sealing portions 510 are spaced apart from each other in the front and rear sides.

[0184] The second sealing portions 520 are formed to extend by a predetermined distance in one direction, and are provided as a pair and are spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the one direction may be defined as a front and rear direction, and the pair of second sealing portions 520 are spaced apart from each other in the left and right sides.

[0185] The third sealing portions 530 are formed to extend a predetermined distance in one direction to connect both ends of the first sealing portion 510 and the second sealing portion 520, respectively. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, the one direction may be defined as an up and down direction, and four third sealing portions 530 may be provided.

[0186] That is, in the sealing member 500, a pair of second sealing portions 520 spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance on the left and right sides and a pair of first sealing portions 510 spaced apart from each other by a predetermined distance on the front and back sides may be formed in the form of a square ring disposed to be vertically spaced apart. Each of the sealing portions 510, 520, 530 functions to seal a gap between the exhaust body 400 and the mounting space 2d, a gap between the exhaust cover 100 and the cover mounting groove 2e or a gap between the exhaust cover 100 and the exhaust body 400.

[0187] First, the first sealing portion 510 includes a first base portion 511 extending left and right by a predetermined length and a first protrusion part 512 protruding from the first base portion 511.

[0188] The first base portion 511 is inserted into the first sealing portion insertion groove 413, and the first protrusion part 512 is inserted into the space below the second mounting portion coupling hole 412.

[0189] In addition, the third sealing portion 530 is inserted into the third sealing portion insertion groove 414.

[0190] In addition, the second sealing portion 520 includes a second base portion 522 formed to extend in front and rear by a predetermined length, a hook insertion portion 521 formed to protrude from the second base portion 522 toward the accommodation portion 420a, and a wing 523 formed to protrude from the second base portion 522 in a direction away from the accommodation portion 420a.

[0191] The hook insertion portion 521 has a cross-section of a shape which protrudes downward by a predetermined length after extending by a predetermined length toward the accommodation portion 420a. That is, it has a (¬)-shaped or left and right inverted (¬)-shaped cross section (refer to FIG. 9a).

[0192] The downwardly protruding part of the hook insertion portion 521 is inserted into the second insertion groove 426 of the frame portion 420 of the exhaust body 400. Accordingly, the second sealing portion 520 may be more firmly fixed between the exhaust cover 100 and the exhaust body 400.

[0193] In addition, the second base portion 522 has a rectangular cross section, and a second protrusion part 522a is formed to protrude downward from the lower side of the second base portion 522.

[0194] The second base portion 522 is disposed between the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 and the exhaust cover 100, and the second protrusion 522a is inserted into the first insertion groove 425. In an exemplary embodiment, the second protrusion 522a may be formed to have a size corresponding to that of the first insertion groove 425.

[0195] In addition, the wing 523 is formed to protrude upward and away from the accommodation portion 420a in the second base portion 522. In an exemplary embodiment, the wing 523 may be formed to have the same length in the front and rear sides as the second base portion 522. The wing 523 is inserted between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100.

5. Description of the Sealing Structure of the Circuit Breaker 1 According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

[0196] Next, the sealing structure of the circuit breaker 1 according to the present exemplary embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 10 to 16.

[0197] Referring to FIG. 10, the circuit breaker 1 with the arc extinguishing assembly 3 coupled thereto is illustrated. In the illustrated figure, a part of the entire arc extinguishing assembly 3 is omitted.

[0198] Referring to FIG. 11, a cross-sectional view of the upper surface of the circuit breaker 1 taken in the vertical direction along the line XI-XI is illustrated. The sealing structure by the first sealing portion 510 is illustrated in FIG. 11.

[0199] Referring to FIG. 13, a cross-sectional view of the upper surface of the circuit breaker 1 taken in the vertical direction along the line XIII-XIII is illustrated. The sealing structure by the second sealing portion 520 is illustrated in FIG. 13.

[0200] Referring to FIG. 15, a cross-sectional view of the front side of the circuit breaker 1 taken along the line XV-XV in the front-rear direction is illustrated. The sealing structure by the third sealing portion 530 is illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0201] (1) Description of the Sealing Structure by the First Sealing Portion 510

[0202] Referring to FIG. 11, when the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 are coupled, a space (gap) is generated between the lower surface of the mounting portion 410 and the first coupling surface 2b1, and in the space, the first sealing portion 510 is inserted and elastically deformed. This is illustrated in area A.

[0203] Referring to FIG. 12, an enlarged cross-sectional view of area A is illustrated. FIG. 12(a) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area A in a state where the first sealing portion 510 is removed, and FIG. 12(b) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area A in a state where the first sealing portion 510 is inserted.

[0204] Referring FIG. 12(a), even if the exhaust body 400 and the first coupling surface (2b1) are pressed together by a strong fastening force, when the internal pressure of the accommodation space 2a increases, a fluid may leak between the exhaust body 400 and the first coupling surfaces 2b1. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, a path through which the fluid may leak is indicated by a dashed arrow.

[0205] Referring to FIG. 12(b), in order to prevent such fluid leakage, a first sealing portion 510 is provided between the exhaust body 400 and the first coupling surface 2b1.

[0206] When the exhaust body 400 is coupled, the first sealing portion 510 is pressed between the exhaust body 400 and the first coupling surface 2b1 to elastically deform.

[0207] In an exemplary embodiment, the first sealing portion 510 may be formed in a size that can be elastically deformed by being pressed between the exhaust body 400 and the first coupling surface 2b1.

[0208] In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of the first base portion 511 may be formed to be larger than that of the first sealing portion insertion groove 413.

[0209] In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the cross-sectional area of the first base portion 511 may be formed to be larger than that of the first sealing portion insertion groove 413.

[0210] The elastically deformed first sealing portion 510 is in close contact with the lower surfaces of the first coupling surface 2b1 and the mounting portion 410 by pressing the lower surfaces of the first coupling surface 2b1 and the mounting portion 410.

[0211] Accordingly, the gap between the first coupling surface 2b1 and the exhaust body 400 is sealed, and the fluid in the accommodation space 2a may be suppressed from leaking into the gap between the first coupling surface 2b1 and the exhaust body 400.

[0212] (2) Description of the Sealing Structure by the Second Sealing Portion 520

[0213] Referring to FIG. 13, when the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 are coupled, a space (gap) may be generated between the upper surface of the mounting portion 410 and the exhaust cover 100 and between the second coupling surface 2b2 and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100. The second sealing portion 520 is inserted into the space and elastically deformed. This is illustrated in area B.

[0214] Referring to FIG. 14, an enlarged cross-sectional view of area B is illustrated. FIG. 14(a) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area B in a state where the second sealing portion 520 is removed, and FIG. 14(b) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area B in a state where the second sealing portion 520 is inserted.

[0215] Referring to FIG. 14(a), even if the upper surface of the mounting portion 410 and the exhaust cover 100 and the second coupling surface 2b2 and the exhaust cover 100 are pressed to each other by a strong fastening force, if the internal pressure of the accommodation space 2a is increased, a fluid may leak therebetween. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, a path through which the fluid may leak is indicated by a dashed arrow.

[0216] Referring to FIG. 14(b), in order to prevent such fluid leakage, a second sealing portion 520 is provided between the upper surface of the mounting portion 410 and the exhaust cover 100, and between the second coupling surface 2b2 and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100.

[0217] When the exhaust body 400 and the exhaust cover 100 are coupled, the second base portion 522 and the hook insertion portion 521 are pressed between the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100 to be elastically deformed.

[0218] In addition, when the exhaust body 400 and the exhaust cover 100 are coupled, the second base portion 522 is pressed between the side surface coupling portion 422 and the inner surface of the accommodation space 2a facing the side coupling portion 422 to be elastically deformed.

[0219] In an exemplary embodiment, the hook insertion portion 521 may be formed in a size that can be elastically deformed by being pressed between the second insertion groove 426 and the exhaust cover 100.

[0220] In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of a part protruding downward of the hook insertion portion 521 may be formed to be larger than that of the second insertion groove 426.

[0221] In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-sectional area of a part protruding downward of the hook insertion portion 521 may be formed to be larger than that of the second insertion groove 426.

[0222] In an exemplary embodiment, the second base portion 522 may be formed in a size that can be elastically deformed by being pressed between the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100.

[0223] In an exemplary embodiment, the second base portion 522 is pressed between the side portion coupling portion 422 and the inner surface of the accommodation space 2a facing the side portion coupling portion 422 to be formed to a size that can be elastically deformed.

[0224] The elastically deformed second base portion 522 and the hook insertion portion 521 press the upper surface of the side portion coupling portion 422 and the exhaust cover 100 to be in close contact with the upper surface of the side portion coupling portion 422 and the exhaust cover 100. Accordingly, the gap between the upper surface of the side coupling portion 422 and the exhaust cover 100 is sealed, and the fluid passing through the filter 200 may be suppressed from leaking into the gap.

[0225] In addition, the elastically deformed second base portion 522 presses the side coupling portion 422 and the inner surface of the accommodation space 2a facing the side coupling portion 422 to be in close contact with the side coupling portion 422 and the inner surface of the accommodation space 2a facing the side coupling portion 422. Accordingly, the gap between the side coupling portion 422 and the inner surface of the accommodation space 2a facing the side coupling portion 422 is sealed, and the fluid inside the accommodation space 2a may be suppressed from leaking into the gap.

[0226] When the exhaust body 400 and the exhaust cover 100 are coupled, the wing 523 is pressed between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100 to be elastically deformed.

[0227] In an exemplary embodiment, a part of the exhaust cover 100 facing the cover mounting groove 2e is formed to be recessed by a predetermined depth in the wing receiving groove 140.

[0228] In an exemplary embodiment, the wing 523 may be formed in a size that can be elastically deformed by being pressed between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100.

[0229] In an exemplary embodiment, the vertical thickness of the wing 523 may be formed to be greater than the value of the distance between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100.

[0230] In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of the wing 523 may be formed to be larger than the size of the space between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100.

[0231] In an exemplary embodiment, the cross-sectional area of the wing 523 may be formed to be larger than the area between the cover mounting groove 2e and the exhaust cover 100.

[0232] The elastically deformed wing 523 presses the second coupling surface 2b2 of the cover mounting groove 2e and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100 to be in close contact with the second coupling surface 2b2 and the lower side surface of the exhaust cover 100. Accordingly, the gap between the second coupling surface 2b2 and the lower surface of the exhaust cover 100 is sealed, and the fluid inside the accommodation space 2a may be suppressed from leaking into the gap.

[0233] (3) Description of the Sealing Structure by the Third Sealing Portion 530

[0234] Referring to FIG. 15, when the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 are coupled, a space (gap) is generated between the left and right side surfaces of the mounting portion 410 and the third coupling surface 2b3, and in the space, the third sealing portion 530 is inserted and elastically deformed. This is illustrated in area C.

[0235] Referring to FIG. 16, an enlarged cross-sectional view of area C is illustrated. FIG. 16(a) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area C in a state where the third sealing unit 530 is removed, and FIG. 16(b) is a cross-sectional view illustrating area C in a state where the third sealing unit 530 is inserted.

[0236] Referring to FIG. 16(a), even when the exhaust body 400 and the third coupling surface 2b1 are pressed together by a strong fastening force, when the internal pressure of the accommodation space 2a increases, a fluid may leak between the exhaust body 400 and the third coupling surfaces 2b3. In the illustrated exemplary embodiment, a path through which the fluid may leak is indicated by a dashed arrow.

[0237] Referring to FIG. 16(b), in order to prevent the leakage of the fluid, a third sealing portion 530 is provided between the mounting portion 410 and the third coupling surface 2b3.

[0238] When the exhaust body 400 is coupled, the third sealing portion 530 is elastically deformed by being pressed between the third coupling surface 2b3 and the left and right sides of the mounting portion 410.

[0239] In an exemplary embodiment, the third sealing portion 530 may be formed in a size that can be elastically deformed by being pressed between the exhaust body 400 and the third coupling surface 2b3.

[0240] In an exemplary embodiment, the volume of the third sealing portion 530 may be larger than that of the third sealing portion insertion groove 414.

[0241] In an exemplary embodiment, the size of the cross-sectional area of the third sealing portion 530 may be larger than that of the third sealing portion insertion groove 414.

[0242] The elastically deformed third sealing portion 530 presses the left and right side surfaces of the third coupling surface 2b3 and the mounting portion 410 to be in close contact with the left and right side surfaces of the third coupling surface 2b3 and the mounting portion 410.

[0243] Accordingly, the gap between the third coupling surface 2b3 and the exhaust body 400 is sealed, and the fluid in the accommodation space 2a may be suppressed from leaking into the gap between the third coupling surface 2b3 and the exhaust body 400.

6. Effects of the Sealing Structure of the Circuit Breaker 1 According to an Exemplary Embodiment of the Present Disclosure

[0244] As described above, the sealing member 500 is provided in the gap between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 according to the present exemplary embodiment.

[0245] The sealing member 500 is elastically deformed by being pressed by the fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2. The elastically deformed sealing member 500 presses the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2, respectively, to close the gap between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2.

[0246] Accordingly, the fluid inside the accommodation space 2a is suppressed from leaking through the gap between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2. As a result, when an arc is generated, a temporary pressure increase value inside the accommodation space 2a may be increased.

[0247] In addition, the extension length of the arc is increased, whereby the arc voltage may be further increased. As a result, the arc extinguishing ability is improved, whereby, when an arc is generated, damage due to the arc in the configuration of the circuit breaker 1 may be suppressed from occurring.

[0248] In addition, the sealing member is elastically deformed by the fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly and the circuit breaker. That is, if the fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly and the circuit breaker is increased, the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member is increased.

[0249] When the amount of elastic deformation of the sealing member is increased, the sealing member presses the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the circuit breaker body 2 more strongly. That is, as the fastening force between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the breaker body 2 is increased, the sealing force between the arc extinguishing assembly 3 and the breaker body 2 may be improved.

[0250] Although the preferred exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, those of ordinary skill in the art will understand that various modifications and changes may be made to the present disclosure without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure as set forth in the claims below.

[0251] The present disclosure relates to an arc extinguishing assembly and a circuit breaker including the same, and it has industrial applicability because it is possible to provide an arc extinguishing assembly including a sealing member and a circuit breaker including the same.