Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to switch disconnectors and transfer switches, and more specifically, relates to modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in case of the transfer switch.

BACKGROUND
[0002] In situations where a critical load is connected to a single power supply, the loss of power supply due to any reliability or environmental issues may lead to increased downtime for such critical loads. To avoid these situations, critical loads are usually supplied by two power sources with a change-over/transfer switch in series, which enables the transfer of power supply from one source to another. Transfer switches are used in various applications where there is a need for a continuous supply of power.
[0003] Various types of modular contact system arrangements are possible for achieving the function of the transfer switch. FIG. 1A shows a representation 100 of a transfer switch with contact system poles arranged one beside the other i.e., side by side. FIG. 1B shows source and load connections and FIG. 1C shows shorting link. As is evident from the referenced FIGs, there are 4 varieties of shorting links and all of them are complexly assembled with insulation. If the width of a pole is taken as “w”, the resulting length of all the shorting links together is greater than 16 times “w”. This highlights a problem of long and thus inefficient shorting links and a complex assembly.
[0004] FIG. 1D shows a representation of a transfer switch with contact system poles arranged one on top of the other. FIG. 1E shows source and load connections and FIG. 1F shows a shorting link. As is evident from the referenced FIGs, there is only one variety of shorting links and assembly is also simplified. This arrangement though brings forward a problem of inaccessibility of bottom terminals. The bottom terminals of the transfer switch cannot be accessed by power tools and they cannot be accessed at all if cables are terminated on top terminals. This increases the installation time and increases complexity during operation and maintenance cycles.
[0005] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop modular and reversible contact system poles which are assembled side by side to ensure access to all terminals. The terminals are also staggered to clearly demarcate the first source and second source resulting in a simplified and efficient shorting link.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in case of the transfer switch.
[0007] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular contact system which is suitable for both switch disconnector and transfer switch providing flexibility in its usage
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular contact system that reduces the complexity and increases the efficiency of shorting links of the transfer switch and ensures easy access to all the termination hardware while keeping the cost to a minimum.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular contact system with a unique arrangement which enables the reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, to design a transfer switch with easy access to all terminals.
[0010] Yet another object of the present disclosure is to provide a modular contact system that simplifies shorting link design, eliminates variety in shorting links and also improves the efficiency of design by reducing the amount of copper and decreasing the length of the current carrying path.

SUMMARY
[0011] The present disclosure relates in general, to switch disconnectors and transfer switches, and more specifically, relates to modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in case of the transfer switch. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing system and solution, by providing improved construction ensuring simple and efficient shorting links while ensuring ease of cable termination to the user.
[0012] The present disclosure relates to a modular contact system that includes a plurality of modular contact system poles configured in a side-by-side arrangement operating as both a transfer switch and a switch disconnector. The modular contact system is suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches providing flexibility in its usage.
[0013] A rotor accommodated in the plurality of modular contact system poles, the rotor is operable to control the movement of the plurality of modular contact system poles to facilitate the engagement or disengagement of electrical connections. A fixed terminal includes an incoming fixed terminal and an outgoing fixed terminal accommodated in the plurality of modular contact system poles, the fixed terminals are stationary points for establishing electrical connections. A movable moving terminal with contacts shaped as a knife edge, accommodated within the plurality of modular contact system poles, wherein the rotor is operable to initiate the movement of the moving terminal along its designated path to facilitate the engagement of the moving terminal onto the fixed terminals to establish the electrical connection. Further, the moving terminal is positioned away from the fixed terminals, ensuring the absence of electrical contact.
[0014] In an aspect, the plurality of modular contact system poles with the incoming fixed terminal and outgoing fixed terminal positioned at different levels above ground to demarcate a first source from a second source within the transfer switch. A first pole of the plurality of modular contact system poles assembled in the side-by-side arrangement with a second pole forms a 2-pole switch disconnector without any rotational adjustments. The movement of the first pole and the second pole is synchronized to facilitate simultaneous switching ON and OFF of both poles, resulting in the establishment or disconnection of electrical connections at the same instant for both poles. The rotors with a specific male and female profile configuration within the 2-pole switch disconnector are configured to move in tandem upon actuation, ensuring synchronized operation.
[0015] In another aspect, the first pole of the plurality of modular contact system poles assembled in the side-by-side configuration with the second pole reversed by 180 degrees form the transfer switch to establish a distinct separation between the terminals of the first source and the second source. The side-by-side configuration of the first pole with the second pole reversed by 180 degrees results in offset in the positions of the rotor, moving terminal, incoming terminal and outgoing terminal. Upon clockwise rotation of the rotor, the first pole in the front portion moves into the ON position while the second pole in the rear portion moves away from the ON position. Likewise, upon anticlockwise rotation of the rotor, the first pole at the front portion moves away from the ON position, while the second pole at the rear portion moves into the ON position. Thus, the modular contact system with a unique arrangement enables reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, to design a transfer switch with easy access to all terminals.
[0016] Besides, the transfer switch with the adjoining modular poles connected to the first source and the second source is arranged in close proximity to optimize the length of shorting links, homogenize shorting links and simplify shorting link construction.
[0017] Various objects, features, aspects, and advantages of the inventive subject matter will become more apparent from the following detailed description of preferred embodiments, along with the accompanying drawing FIGs in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0018] The following drawings form part of the present specification and are included to further illustrate aspects of the present disclosure. The disclosure may be better understood by reference to the drawings in combination with the detailed description of the specific embodiments presented herein.
[0019] FIG. 1A illustrates a side-by-side transfer switch.
[0020] FIG. 1B illustrates source and load connections.
[0021] FIG. 1C illustrates shorting link of a side-by-side product.
[0022] FIG. 1D illustrates a transfer switch with one pole on top of the other.
[0023] FIG. 1E illustrates its source and load connections.
[0024] FIG. 1F illustrates shorting links for the same product.
[0025] FIG. 2A illustrates a 4-pole transfer switch, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 2B illustrates a 4-pole switch disconnector, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 2C illustrates a modular contact system pole in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2D illustrates the configuration of the modular contact system pole in OFF condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 2E illustrates the configuration of the modular contact system pole in ON condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 3A illustrates an assembly operation for making a 2-pole switch disconnector, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIGs. 3B and 3C illustrate switch disconnectors in OFF and ON condition respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 4A illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of the transfer switch, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 4B illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of transfer switch in off condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 4C illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of the transfer switch in the first position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] FIG. 4D illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole assembly of the transfer switch in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0036] FIG. 4E illustrates load and source connections, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0037] FIG. 4F illustrates the shorting links, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0038] The following is a detailed description of embodiments of the disclosure depicted in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments are in such detail as to clearly communicate the disclosure. If the specification states a component or feature “may”, “can”, “could”, or “might” be included or have a characteristic, that particular component or feature is not required to be included or have the characteristic.
[0039] As used in the description herein and throughout the claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includes plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, as used in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and “on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.
[0040] The present disclosure relates, in general, to switch disconnectors and transfer switches, and more specifically, relates to modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in case of the transfer switch.
[0041] FIG. 1A showcases a side-by-side transfer switch, representing a conventional design. FIG. 1B displays the connections for both the source and load, highlighting that each shorting link's length is at a minimum half the width of the product. FIG. 1C depicts the shorting link of the side-by-side product, showing that all legs have varying lengths, requiring intricate assembly with critical insulation for reliable operation; additionally, all terminals are easily accessible to the user. FIG. 1D exhibits a transfer switch with one pole stacked above the other, while FIG. 1E demonstrates its source and load connections, revealing that not all terminals are readily accessible to the user; accessing S2 terminals necessitates dismantling S1's cable, and even then, power tools cannot reach S2 terminals. FIG. 1F presents the shorting links for the same product, emphasizing that the size of each shorting link is at least half the size of the contact system, and these links are straightforward to assemble without requiring critical insulation.
[0042] To overcome the above limitations, the modular contact system arrangement is proposed that is suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches. The switch disconnector can include the mechanism and 4-modular contact system poles. The modular contact system pole can include the rotor, incoming fixed terminal, outgoing fixed terminal, terminal access and moving contact. The modular contact system pole is constructed in such a way that the incoming fixed terminal and outgoing fixed terminal are at different levels from the ground. This is done intentionally to provide clear source demarcation in the transfer switch.
[0043] Further, moving contact is a set of knife contacts. When the rotor rotates, moving contacts slide onto the incoming fixed terminal and outgoing fixed terminal switching on the product and providing supply to the load shown in FIG. 2E. When 2-modular contact system poles are assembled side by side without any rotation, they form a 2-pole switch disconnector shown in FIG. 3A. Since there is no rotation while assembly, both the moving contacts rotate together, and no offset is present between them. Both poles get switched ON and switched OFF at the same time. There is no offset in access to terminals and both the input terminals and the output terminals are at the same level. Rotors have a male and female profile to effectively transfer rotary motion form one pole to another.
[0044] FIG 3B shows the switch disconnector in the OFF position. When the rotor is rotated, both the rotors rotate together to move moving contacts towards fixed terminals and switch on the switch disconnector shown in FIG. 3C. and FIG. 4A shows the assembly process of the transfer switch. One modular contact system pole is rotated by 180 degrees and attached with a second pole shown in FIG. 4A. This assembly ensure clear demarcation between terminals of the first source and second source even though the first source and second source terminals are side by side.
[0045] This rotating of assemblies also offsets the rotor and moving contact positions by 180 degrees as shown in FIG. 4B. This ensures that when the rotor of one pole is rotated, the other pole rotates further beyond the OFF position and does not switch ON. When rotor 214 is rotated clockwise, the front pole switches ON shown in FIG. 4C whereas the rear pole also rotates clockwise but moves further away from its ON position.
[0046] When rotor 214 is rotated anticlockwise, the front pole rotates anti-clockwise moving further away from the ON position whereas the rear pole moves into the ON position. With a slight modification in an assembly step, the switch disconnector assembly is converted into a transfer switch assembly without any further changes. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0047] The advantages achieved by the system of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The modular contact system arrangement is suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in the case of the transfer switch. The modular contact system which is suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches provides flexibility in its usage. The modular contact system reduces the complexity and increases the efficiency of shorting links of the transfer switch and ensures easy access to all the termination hardware while keeping the cost to a minimum. The modular contact system with unique arrangement which enables the reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, to design a transfer switch with easy access to all terminals. The modular contact system simplifies shorting link design, eliminates variety in shorting links and also improves the efficiency of design by reducing the amount of copper and decreasing the length of the current carrying path. The description of terms and features related to the present disclosure shall be clear from the embodiments that are illustrated and described; however, the invention is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents of the embodiments are possible within the scope of the present disclosure. Additionally, the invention can include other embodiments that are within the scope of the claims but are not
[0048] FIG. 2A illustrates a 4-pole transfer switch 200, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0049] The present disclosure relates to a modular contact system 400 suitable for both switch disconnectors 206 and transfer switches 200. The system can include transfer switch 200, and a plurality of modular contact system poles 202 (also referred to as modular contact system pole 202, herein). The plurality of modular contact system poles 202 configured in a side-by-side arrangement operates as both the transfer switch and the switch disconnector.
[0050] In an exemplary embodiment, the plurality of modular contact system poles 202 can be 4-modular contact system poles (202-1 to 202-4 ( which are collectively referred to as modular contact system pole 202, herein)). Further, the system includes a mechanism 204, switch disconnector 206, terminals (208-1, 208-2), rotor 214, incoming fixed terminal 216-1, outgoing fixed terminal 216-2, moving contact 218, sources (220-1, 220-2). With a unique arrangement which enables the reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, the transfer switch 200 with easy access to all terminals is proposed, simplified shorting link design, eliminates variety in the shorting links and also improves the efficiency of design by reducing the amount of copper and decrease the length of the current carrying path.
[0051] In an exemplary embodiment, the transfer switch 200, as presented in the example can be a 4-pole transfer switch with 8-modular contact system poles 202 allowing for the seamless switching between two power sources, typically between a primary power source and a secondary power source. The 4-pole transfer switch 200 can include 8 modular contact system poles 202 that serve as the electrical contacts that make or break connections between the power sources. Mechanism 204 in the transfer switch 200 is responsible for the physical actuation of the switching process. It ensures that the transfer occurs smoothly and without interruption.
[0052] FIG. 2B illustrates a 4-pole switch disconnector 206, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In another exemplary embodiment, the switch disconnector 206, as presented in the example, can be a 4-pole switch disconnector 206 that is designed to isolate electrical circuits. The 4-modular contact system poles 202 serve as the electrical contacts that make or break connections between the power sources. The mechanism 204 is responsible for the physical operation of the switch disconnector 206.
[0053] FIG. 2C illustrates a modular contact system pole 202 with terminal (208-1, 208-2), housing 210, cover 212, and rotor 214. The modular contact system pole 202 with these terminals (208-1, 208-2) serves as access points for electrical connections. They allow wires or conductors to be securely connected to the contact system pole 202. The housing 210 provides a protective enclosure for the internal components, safeguarding them from environmental factors, dust, and physical damage. The cover 212 further shields the internal components, enhancing the overall safety and longevity of the modular contact system pole. The rotor 214 is responsible for controlling the movement of the modular contact system pole 202. The rotor 214 is accommodated in each of the plurality of modular contact system poles 202, the rotor 214 is operable to control the movement of the plurality of modular contact system poles 202 to facilitate the engagement or disengagement of electrical connections as needed.
[0054] FIG. 2D illustrates a configuration of a modular contact system pole in OFF condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The modular contact system pole 202 includes fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2), where the fixed terminals can include incoming fixed terminal 216-1, and outgoing fixed terminal 216-2. The fixed terminals accommodated in the plurality of modular contact system poles are stationary points for establishing electrical connections. They remain in a fixed position, providing a stable connection within the system. The modular contact system pole 202 is constructed in such a way that the incoming fixed terminal 216-1 and outgoing fixed terminal 216-2 are at different levels from the ground to provide clear source demarcation in the transfer switch 200
[0055] Further, the modular contact system pole 202 can include moving terminal 218. The moving terminal 218 is designed to be movable or adjustable. The movable moving terminal 218 with contacts shaped as a knife edge, accommodated within the plurality of modular contact system poles. The rotor 214 is operable to initiate the movement of the moving terminal 218 along its designated path to facilitate the engagement of the moving terminal 218 onto the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2) to establish the electrical connection. In the OFF condition of the modular contact system pole 202, the moving terminal is positioned away from the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2), ensuring the absence of electrical contact.
[0056] FIG. 2E illustrates the configuration of the modular contact system pole in ON condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The moving terminal 218 that specialized contacts designed in the shape of a knife edge. When the rotor 214 starts to rotate, it causes the moving terminal 218 to move along its path. As the rotor 214 continues to rotate, the moving contacts 218, being in the shape of knife edges, slide smoothly onto the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2). This action creates an electrical connection between the moving terminals 218 and the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2). Thereby, electrical current can flow through this connection. With the electrical connection established, power can now flow from the source through the moving contacts 218 and fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2) to the load.
[0057] FIG. 3A illustrates the assembly operation for making a 2-pole switch disconnector, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The present disclosure provides an assembly of modular contact system poles 202 to form a 2-pole switch disconnector 206. The present disclosure allows for the seamless integration of modular contact system poles 202 in a side-by-side arrangement without the necessity for rotational adjustments to form a 2-pole switch disconnector 206.
[0058] As depicted in FIG. 3A, a first pole 202-1 of the plurality of modular contact system poles when assembled in the side-by-side arrangement with a second pole 202-2 without any rotational adjustments form a 2-pole switch disconnector 206. The synchronized movement of the first pole 202-1 and the second pole 202-2 facilitates simultaneous switching ON and OFF of both poles, resulting in the establishment or disconnection of electrical connections at the same instant for both poles. The rotors 214 with a specific male and female profile configuration within the 2-pole switch disconnector 206 are adapted to move in tandem upon actuation, ensuring synchronized operation.
[0059] In an embodiment, assembling the modular contact system poles 202 does not involve any rotational adjustments such that the moving terminals 218 on both poles move in unison. This synchronized movement ensures that there is no positional difference or offset between the moving terminals 218 on each pole. Consequently, both poles are switched ON or OFF simultaneously. This simultaneous action ensures that the electrical connection is established or disconnected at the same instant for both poles. Additionally, there is no discrepancy in accessing the terminals. Both input and output terminals are aligned at the same level, allowing for consistent and predictable electrical connections.
[0060] The rotors 214 are designed with a specific male and female profile configuration. This design ensures the effective transfer of rotary motion from one pole to the other. The male and female profiles interlock in a way that enables seamless transmission of rotational force. This synchronization ensures that both rotors 214 move in tandem when actuated.
[0061] FIGs. 3B and 3C show switch disconnectors in OFF and ON condition respectively, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In FIG. 3B, the switch disconnector 206 is depicted in the OFF position such that moving terminal 218 is positioned away from the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2), ensuring no electrical connection is established. When rotor 214 is rotated, its male and female profiles facilitate the simultaneous rotation of both rotors. As the rotors turn, they cause the moving terminal 218 to move towards the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2). This action establishes electrical connections. This process effectively switches ON the switch disconnector, as shown in FIG. 3C.
[0062] FIG. 4A illustrates the operation of the 1-pole assembly of transfer switch, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0063] The assembly process for the transfer switch 200 is depicted in FIG. 4A. The modular contact system pole 202 is rotated 180 degrees before being attached to a second pole. This rotation creates a clear separation between the terminals of the first source and the second source (220-1, 220-2) shown in FIG. 2F despite the fact that the terminals for both sources are positioned side by side.
[0064] As depicted in FIG. 4A, the first pole 202-1 of the plurality of modular contact system poles 202 when assembled in the side-by-side configuration with the second pole 202-2 reversed by 180 degrees form the transfer switch 200, thereby establishing a distinct separation between the terminals of the first source 220-1 and the second source 220-2. The side-by-side configuration of the first pole 202-1 with the second pole 202-2 reversed by 180 degrees results in offset in the positions of the rotor 214, moving terminal 218, incoming terminal 216-1 and outgoing terminal 216-2.
[0065] The rotation causes an offset of 180 degrees in the positions of the rotor 214 and moving contact 218, which is illustrated in FIG.4 Billustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of transfer switch in OFF condition, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Due to the offset, when the rotor 214 of one pole is rotated, it has a specific effect on the other pole. The offset ensures that when the rotor 214 of one pole is rotated, the other pole continues to rotate beyond the OFF position and does not switch ON during this process.
[0066] FIG. 4C illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of the transfer switch in the first position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, upon the clockwise rotation of the rotor 214, the first pole 202-1 in the front portion moves into the ON position while the second pole 202-2 in the rear portion moves away from the ON position. Similarly, upon the anticlockwise rotation of the rotor 214, the first pole 202-1 at the front portion moves away from the ON position, while the second pole 202-2 at the rear portion moves into the ON position.
[0067] As depicted in FIG. 4C, at the first position, when the rotor 214 is rotated in a clockwise direction, it leads to different outcomes for the front and rear poles:
[0068] The front pole switches ON shown in FIG. 4C.
[0069] The rear pole, while also moving in a clockwise direction, moves further away from its ON position.
[0070] FIG. 4D illustrates the assembly operation of 1 pole of the transfer switch in the second position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. In an embodiment, at the second position, when the rotor 214 is rotated in an anticlockwise direction, it results in distinct movements for the front and rear poles:
[0071] The front pole rotates in an anticlockwise direction, moving further away from its ON position. The rear pole, on the other hand, moves into the ON position. Therefore, with a slight modification in an assembly step, the switch disconnector assembly is converted into the transfer switch assembly without any further changes.
[0072] FIG. 4F illustrates the shorting links, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The sources (220-1, 220-2) are located very close to each other, and the length of the shorting links is significantly reduced. The simplified and efficient shorting link achieved due to the present design with clearly demarcated inputs depicted in FIG. 4F. Each shorting link is slightly longer than one-eighth (1/8th) of the total length of the contact system. This arrangement also homogenized the shorting links and production and assembly of the same is simplified.
[0073] Subsequently, the transfer switch with the adjoining modular poles connected to the first source 220-1 and the second source 220-2 that are adjoining to each other optimizes the length of shorting links, homogenizes shorting links and simplifies shorting link construction.
[0074] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides The modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in case of the transfer switch. The modular contact system which is suitable for both switch disconnector and transfer switches provides flexibility in its usage. The modular contact system reduces the complexity and increases the efficiency of shorting links of the transfer switch and ensures easy access to all the termination hardware while keeping the cost to a minimum. The modular contact system with unique arrangement which enables the reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, to design the transfer switch with easy access to all terminals. The modular contact system simplifies shorting link design, eliminates variety in shorting links and also improves the efficiency of design by reducing the amount of copper, thereby reducing cost and decreasing the length of the current carrying path.
[0075] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the system 100 of the disclosure may be provided using some or all of the mentioned features and components without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, it will be clear that the disclosure is not limited to these embodiments only. Numerous modifications, changes, variations, substitutions, and equivalents will be apparent to those skilled in the art, without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure, as described in the claims.

ADVANTAGES OF THE PRESENT INVENTION
[0076] The present disclosure provides a modular contact system that is suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches, providing flexibility in its usage.
[0077] The present disclosure provides a modular contact system arrangement suitable for both switch disconnectors and transfer switches while ensuring a simple and efficient shorting link in the case of the transfer switch.
[0078] The present disclosure provides an arrangement of the modular contact system to ensure easy access to all termination hardware, facilitating maintenance and servicing tasks.
[0079] The present disclosure reduces the amount of copper needed, contributing to material efficiency and potentially leading to cost savings.
[0080] The present disclosure provides a modular contact system with a unique arrangement which enables the reversing of individual contact system modules and placing them side by side, to design a transfer switch with easy access to all terminals.
[0081] The present disclosure simplifies shorting link design, eliminates variety in shorting links and also improves the efficiency of design by reducing the amount of copper and decreasing the length of the current carrying path.
, Claims:1. A modular contact system (400) comprising:
a plurality of modular contact system poles (202) configured in a side-by-side arrangement operates as both a transfer switch (200) and a switch disconnector (206);
a rotor (214) accommodated in each of the plurality of modular contact system poles, the rotor (214) is operable to control the movement of the plurality of modular contact system poles (202) to facilitate the engagement or disengagement of electrical connections;
a fixed terminal comprising an incoming fixed terminal (216-1) and an outgoing fixed terminal (216-2) accommodated in each of the plurality of modular contact system poles, the fixed terminals are stationary points for establishing electrical connections; and
a movable moving terminal (218) with contacts shaped as a knife edge, accommodated within the plurality of modular contact system poles, wherein the rotor (214) is operable to initiate the movement of the moving terminal (218) along its designated path to facilitate the engagement of the moving terminal (218) onto the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2) to establish the electrical connection.

2. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the moving terminal (218) is positioned away from the fixed terminals (216-1, 216-2), ensures the absence of the electrical connection.

3. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plurality of modular contact system poles (202) with the incoming fixed terminal (216-1) and outgoing fixed terminal (216-2) positioned at different levels above ground so as to demarcate a first source (220-1) from a second source (220-2) within the transfer switch.
4. The modular contact system as claimed in claim 1, wherein a first pole (202-1) of the plurality of modular contact system poles (202) assembled in the side-by-side arrangement with a second pole (202-2) form a 2-pole switch disconnector without any rotational adjustments.

5. The system as claimed in claim 4, wherein the movement of the first pole and the second pole is synchronized to facilitate simultaneous switching ON and OFF of both poles, resulting in the establishment or disconnection of the electrical connections at the same instant for both poles.
6. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the rotors (214) with a specific male and female profile configuration within the 2-pole switch disconnector configured to move in tandem upon actuation, ensuring synchronized operation.

7. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first pole of the plurality of modular contact system poles (202) assembled in the side-by-side configuration with the second pole reversed by 180 degrees form the transfer switch to establish a distinct separation between the terminals of the first source and the second source (220-1, 220-2).

8. The system as claimed in claim 7, wherein the side-by-side configuration of the first pole with the second pole reversed by 180 degrees results in the offset in the positions of the rotor, moving terminal, incoming terminal and outgoing terminal.

9. The system as claimed in claim 8, wherein upon clockwise rotation of the rotor, the first pole in the front portion moves into the ON position while the second pole in the rear portion moves away from the ON position, and wherein upon anticlockwise rotation of the rotor, the first pole at the front portion moving away from the ON position, while the second pole at the rear portion moves into the ON position.
10. The system as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transfer switch (200) with the adjoining poles (202-1, 202-2) connected to the first source and the second source arranged in close proximity to optimize the length of shorting links, homogenize shorting links and simplify shorting link construction.