Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to low voltage switchgear, and more specifically, relates to a transfer switch with two sets of switch disconnectors when stacked one above the other has clear access to all termination points for ease of installation at the user end.

BACKGROUND
[0002] A transfer switch is an electrical switch that switches a load between two sources i.e., the primary source and an alternative or backup source. This includes a layout where two sets of switches are arranged in a way that is actuated by a mechanism providing mechanical interlocking in either of the switches closing its contact.
[0003] Generally, these switches are stacked one above the other which results in limited access to the termination points of the switch, which is placed at the bottom because of the switch placed above it. To overcome this difficulty at the user end, it is desired to strategically position the poles such that the terminals are staggered, i.e., placed at an offset providing clear access to all termination points thus eliminating any difficulty during installation. This also eliminates any demand for special-purpose termination tightening tools to be used for installation thus reducing installation time and cost.
[0004] The staggering of terminals coupled with modular pole construction placed in single housing without any need for additional components to enclose the contact pole parts. This further reduces manufacturing costs by reducing material content and assembly time.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0005] An object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that achieves staggering termination points with modular construction facilitating flexibility in product offerings.
[0006] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that achieves staggering termination points with the same pole construction by flipping the contact pole assembly direction.
[0007] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that includes the construction of a contact pole with only single contact housing eliminating the need for any additional cover component to enclose all contact pole components.
[0008] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that includes the construction of a contact pole with adjacent contact housing acting as an enclosing component for the respective contact pole.
[0009] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that includes end covers acting as contact pole covers for extreme end poles also facilitating stacking of both decks of switch disconnectors.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch in which the poles are strategically placed such that the terminals are staggered providing clear access to all termination points thus eliminating any difficulty during installation.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that achieves staggering of terminals with modular pole construction placed in single housing without any need for additional component to enclose the contact pole parts thus further reducing manufacturing cost by reducing material content and reduction in assembly time.
[0012] Yet another object of the present invention is to provide a transfer switch that eliminates any demand for special-purpose termination tightening tools to be used for installation thus reducing installation time and cost.

SUMMARY
[0013] The present disclosure relates in general, to low voltage switchgear, and more specifically, relates to a transfer switch with two sets of switch disconnectors when stacked one above the other has clear access to all termination points for ease of installation at the user end. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing switch and solution, by providing staggering of terminals within a modular pole construction, all situated within a singular housing, obviating the necessity for supplementary components to encase the constituent parts of the contact pole. This design not only curtails manufacturing expenses through a reduction in material usage but also diminishes assembly duration. Additionally, the present disclosure encompasses the configuration of pole elements housed within a single unit, devoid of the requirement for extra encasement components.
[0014] The present disclosure relates to a low-voltage transfer switch that includes a set of switch disconnectors including a first set of switch disconnectors and a second set of switch disconnectors. The first set of switch disconnectors disconnects a load from a power source and the second set of switch disconnectors is configured to disconnect the load from a backup source. A set of contact poles includes a first set of contact poles and a second set of contact poles, with the first set of switch disconnectors located at the top of the first set of contact poles and positioned in the opposite direction to the second set of contact poles of the second set of switch disconnectors located at the bottom. The set of contact poles is configured to establish or interrupt the flow of electrical current in the circuit. The first set of switch disconnectors is distinguished by the presence of the first set of contact poles oriented in a direction diametrically opposite to that of the second set of contact poles in the second set of switch disconnectors thereby optimising the spatial utilization within the transfer switch while ensuring efficient operation during power transfer operations.
[0015] Further, a mechanism positioned adjacent to the first set of switch disconnectors and the second set of switch disconnectors, the mechanism configured to actuate either set of contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors for closing or opening the physical contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors. A terminal accommodated within the first set of contact poles and the second set of contact poles positioned at an offset distance from the central plane, thereby bisecting the set of contact poles into two equal segments, and ensuring that the terminal is staggered in relation to the first and second set of switch disconnectors, thereby providing clear access to all termination points thus eliminating any difficulty during installation. The set of contact poles is adapted for reversed stacking, maintaining the offset positioning of the terminal in a staggered manner in the reversed configuration.
[0016] In addition, the transfer switch includes end covers that facilitate the stacking of the decks of the first set of switch disconnectors and the second set of switch disconnectors and enclose the first and second set of contact poles positioned at both extreme ends, providing a protective enclosure that safeguards the critical components from environmental factors and external influences.
[0017] Moreover, the set of contact poles is enclosed in a single contact housing wherein the requirement of an additional component to enclose the contact pole parts is eliminated, resulting in a reduction in cost by minimizing material content and assembly time. The set of contact poles is provided with an adjacent contact housing, wherein the adjacent contact housing serves as an enclosing component for the respective contact poles. Besides, the termination tightening tool accesses the termination point of the set of contact poles situated at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch providing clear access to all termination points thus eliminating any difficulty during installation.
[0018] 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 figures in which like numerals represent like components.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0019] 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.
[0020] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary representation of a transfer switch, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0021] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary isometric exploded view of two identical sets of switch disconnectors, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0022] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary isometric exploded view of contact poles to indicate the direction of contact housing in either switch disconnector, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0023] FIG. 1D illustrates an exemplary isometric view indicating offset within termination points, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 1E illustrates an exemplary bottom view indicating offset within termination points, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 1F illustrates an exemplary isometric view indicating the direction of the location of contact housing, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 1G illustrates an exemplary isometric view indicating the opposite direction of location of contact housing, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 1H illustrates an exemplary isometric view demonstrating the termination tightening tool accessing bottom or rear terminal, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 1I illustrates an exemplary bottom view demonstrating the termination tightening tool accessing bottom or rear terminal, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0029] 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.
[0030] 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.
[0031] The present disclosure relates, to low voltage switchgear, and more specifically, relates to a transfer switch with two sets of switch disconnectors when stacked one above the other has clear access to all termination points for ease of installation at the user end.
[0032] The present disclosure provides a transfer switch that can include two identical sets of switch disconnectors placed one above the other. A first set of switch disconnectors is located at the top or front and is arranged with a first set of contact poles which is located in a direction opposite to that of a second set of contact poles of the second set of switch disconnectors that is located at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch. The direction of locating the first and the second set of contact poles in either the first or second set of switch disconnectors is indicated as (A) and (B) respectively. The mechanism located adjacent to the first and second set of switch disconnectors actuates either a set of contacts for closing or opening physical contacts. The first and second set of contact poles which is a subsystem of either of the switch disconnectors include contact housing that is housing for the location of all contact parts. The terminal is provided for termination with cable lugs. The terminal placed in the contact pole is located at an offset distance from the central plane dividing the pole into two equal parts i.e., half the width and with such reversed stacking, this provides an offset or staggering to the terminal of contact pole for both switch disconnectors. The first and second sets of contact poles include contact housing alone with adjacent contact pole housing acting as a component that encloses the first and second set of contact poles. With a staggered arrangement for termination, the termination tightening tool has clear access to the termination point of the pole placed at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch thus providing ease of product installation with the reduction in installation time and cost. The end covers stacks both the deck of switch disconnectors and also encloses the contact pole placed at either end. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] The advantages achieved by the transfer switch of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The present disclosure pertains to low voltage switchgear, specifically focusing on the transfer switch featuring two sets of stacked switch disconnectors. This configuration allows for seamless access to all termination points, ensuring ease of installation for end-users. The present disclosure achieves a staggering of terminals through modular pole construction housed in a single unit, enhancing its efficiency. Additionally, strategically placed poles ensure staggered terminals, providing unobstructed access to all termination points and simplifying installation. This design eliminates the need for additional components to enclose contact pole parts, significantly reducing manufacturing costs and assembly time. Furthermore, it obviates the requirement for specialized termination tightening tools, further streamlining the installation process and reducing associated time and costs. 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 described in detail with respect to the following description.
[0034] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary representation of a transfer switch, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0035] Referring to FIG. 1A, a low voltage transfer switch 100 (also referred to as transfer switch 100, herein) is an electrical switch that switches a load between two sources i.e., the primary source and an alternative or backup source. The transfer switch 100 can include two identical sets of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2), contact poles (104-1, 104-2), mechanism 106, end covers 108, terminal 110, contact housing 112, terminal offset or staggered distance 114 and termination tightening tool 116.
[0036] FIG. 1A, depicts a representation of the transfer switch 100, offering a comprehensive view of its constituent elements and structural configuration. FIG. 1B, an isometric exploded view presents two identical sets of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2), affording an intricate insight into their spatial arrangement and organizational layout. FIG. 1C provides a detailed focus on the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2), emphasizing the directional alignment of the contact housing within each switch disconnector. Concurrently, FIG. 1D and FIG. 1E illustrates offset termination points, underscoring their purposeful placement to augment operational effectiveness. FIG. 1F and FIG. 1G offer further elucidation on the specific orientation of the contact housing within the switch disconnector, contributing to a clearer understanding of its positional arrangement. Further, FIG. 1H and FIG. 1I prominently features the termination tightening tool, showcasing its accessibility to the bottom or rear terminal, thereby facilitating expeditious and effective installation procedures.
[0037] The sets of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) (also referred to as a set of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2)) can include a first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 and a second set of switch disconnectors 102-2 shown in FIG. 1B placed one above the other. The first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 isolates an electrical circuit from the power source. In an exemplary embodiment, the first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 is designed to disconnect the load from the primary power source, which could be the main electrical grid. Similar to the first set of switch disconnectors 102-1, the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2 is part of the second set within the transfer switch 100. It is designed to disconnect the load from another power source, which is likely a backup source. The first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 is situated at the upper/front portion of the transfer switch 100, while the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2 is located at the lower/rear end.
[0038] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary isometric exploded view of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) (also referred to as a set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2), herein) to indicate the direction of contact housing in either switch disconnector. The first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 is located at the top or front and is arranged with the first set of contact poles 104-1 which is located in a direction opposite to that of the second set of contact poles 104-2 of the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2 that is located at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch 100. The direction of locating the first set of contact poles 104-1 in either the first or second set of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) is indicated as A and B respectively.
[0039] The distinct orientations of the first and second sets of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) in the first and second sets of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) are depicted in FIG. 1C respectively. The first and second sets of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) establish or interrupt the flow of electrical current in the circuit. The first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 is distinguished by the presence of the first set of contact poles 104-1 oriented in a direction diametrically opposite to that of the second set of contact poles 104-2 in the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2. This arrangement serves to optimize the spatial utilization within the transfer switch 100 while ensuring efficient operation during power transfer operations. This strategic placement of the first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) enhances the functional capabilities of the transfer switch 100, enabling a seamless and reliable transition of electrical power sources.
[0040] Mechanism 106 as shown in FIG. 1D is strategically positioned near the first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 and the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2. The mechanism 106 is positioned adjacent to the first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 and the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2, the mechanism 106 is configured to actuate either set of contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) for closing or opening the physical contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2). Mechanism 106 is engineered with precision to ensure smooth and controlled actuation, thus enhancing the overall operational effectiveness of the transfer switch 100.
[0041] The end covers 108 shown in FIG. 1D serves a dual-purpose role within the disclosed invention. They facilitate the stacking of the decks of the first set of switch disconnectors 102-1 and the second set of switch disconnectors 102-2, optimizing spatial utilization and ensuring a compact overall design. Additionally, the end covers 108 are designed to enclose the first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) positioned at both extreme ends, providing a protective enclosure that safeguards the critical components from environmental factors and external influences. The end covers108 may act as contact pole covers for extreme end poles also facilitating stacking of both decks of the first and second set of switch disconnectors (104-1, 104-2).
[0042] The terminals 110 as shown in FIG. 1D strategically positioned for seamless termination with cable lugs. This integration is meticulously engineered to ensure secure and stable electrical connections, thereby enhancing the overall integrity and safety of the transfer switch 100 in operation. Terminals 110 is situated within the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2 is deliberately positioned at an offset distance from the central plane. This specific configuration effectively bisects the pole, ensuring that terminal 110 is staggered in relation to the first and second set of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2). The reversed stacking arrangement 114 of terminal 110 within the first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is depicted in FIG. 1D and FIG. 1E respectively. The set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is adapted for reversed stacking, maintaining the offset positioning of the terminal 110 in a staggered manner in the reversed configuration.
[0043] The terminals 110 within the first and the second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) play a critical role in electrical connections. Their primary function is to provide a secure and reliable point for conductors to be attached, allowing electrical current to flow between different components within the circuit. The terminals 110 are strategically positioned at an offset distance from the central plane that bisects the contact pole (104-1, 104-2) into two equal segments, representing half of the width of the contact pole. This arrangement results in a staggered termination configuration for both decks when assembled in a reversed orientation.
[0044] The first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2 are constructed exclusively with the contact housing 112. An adjacent contact pole housing 112 serves as an enclosing component for the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2. This constructional design ensures the structural integrity and containment of the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2 as vividly depicted in FIG. 1F and FIG. 1G respectively. Moreover, the contact housing 112 features designated open directions, specifically indicated as (A) and (B), optimizing the orientation of the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2. The first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is constructed with a single contact housing, eliminating the necessity for an additional cover component to enclose all contact pole parts. The first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is constructed with an adjacent contact housing, which serves as an enclosing component for the respective contact pole.
[0045] The incorporation of the staggered termination arrangement within the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-2 is a distinctive feature of the present disclosure. This configuration provides a critical advantage during the installation process, particularly in accessing the termination point of the pole located at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch 100. The present disclosure attains staggered termination points through a modular construction, enhancing flexibility in product offerings. The staggering of termination points is accomplished using the same pole construction by altering the assembly direction of the contact pole (104-1, 104-2).
[0046] The termination tightening tool 116 shown in FIG. 1H and FIG. 1I respectively is dedicated to securely fastening conductors to terminal points or connectors. Its primary function lies in establishing a reliable and safe electrical connection for the secure operation of electrical systems. The first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-1 configuration integrate the termination tightening tool 116 within the electrical transfer switch 100. These collectively enhance the installation process, notably reducing both time and cost expenditures. The unique constructional aspects of the first set of contact poles 104-1 and the second set of contact poles 104-1 and the strategic integration of the termination tightening tool 116 exemplify the contributions to the field of electrical transfer switches.
[0047] In an exemplary implementation of an embodiment, the transfer switch 100 is installed, which can include two identical sets of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) arranged one above the other. When maintenance or repairs are required, the switch disconnectors at the bottom can be easily accessed due to the staggered arrangement of the terminals, which eliminates the need for specialized tools and reduces installation time and cost.
[0048] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides the transfer switch that significantly reduces manufacturing costs by minimizing material content and eliminating the need for extra components, leading to a substantial reduction in expenses related to raw materials and production processes. Additionally, it streamlines assembly, ultimately enhancing production throughput. This switch achieves a staggering of terminals through modular pole construction within a single housing. Furthermore, strategically placed poles ensure staggered terminals, allowing easy access to all termination points and eliminating installation difficulties. The present disclosure eliminates the requirement for specialized termination tightening tools, thereby reducing both installation time and cost.
[0049] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the transfer switch 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
[0050] The present invention provides a transfer switch that significantly reduces the overall manufacturing costs by minimizing the material content and eliminating the need for extra components, expenses related to raw materials and production processes are substantially reduced.
[0051] The present invention provides a transfer switch that leads to a reduction in the assembly time required to construct the terminal, ultimately increasing production throughput.
[0052] The present invention provides a transfer switch that achieves a staggering of terminals with modular pole construction placed in a single housing.
[0053] The present invention provides a transfer switch in which the poles are strategically placed such that the terminals are staggered providing clear access to all termination points thus eliminating any difficulty during installation.
[0054] The present invention provides a transfer switch that eliminates any demand for special-purpose termination tightening tools to be used for installation thus reducing installation time and cost.
, Claims:1. A low voltage transfer switch (100) comprising:
a set of identical switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) comprising a first set of switch disconnectors and a second set of switch disconnectors, the first set of switch disconnectors disconnects a load from a power source and the second set of switch disconnectors is configured to disconnect the load from a backup source;
a set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) comprising a first set of contact poles and a second set of contact poles, with the first set of switch disconnectors located at the top of the first set of contact poles (104-1) positioned in the opposite direction to the second set of contact poles of the second set of switch disconnectors (102-2) located at the bottom (104-2), the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is configured to establish or interrupt the flow of electrical current in the circuit;
a mechanism (106) positioned adjacent to the first set of switch disconnectors (102-1) and the second set of switch disconnectors (102-2), the mechanism (106) configured to actuate either set of contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2) for closing or opening the physical contacts of the set of identical switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2); and
a terminal (110) accommodated within the first set of contact poles (104-1) and the second set of contact poles (104-2) positioned at an offset distance from the central plane, thereby bisecting the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) into two equal segments, and ensuring that the terminal (110) is staggered in relation to the first and second set of switch disconnectors (102-1, 102-2), thereby providing clear access to all termination points situated at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch thus eliminating any difficulty during installation.

2. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the transfer switch comprises end covers (108) that facilitate the stacking of the decks of the first set of switch disconnectors (102-1) and the second set of switch disconnectors (102-2) and enclose the first and second set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) positioned at both extreme ends, providing a protective enclosure that safeguards the critical components from environmental factors and external influences.

3. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the first set of switch disconnectors (102-1) is distinguished by the presence of the first set of contact poles (104-1) oriented in a direction diametrically opposite to that of the second set of contact poles (104-2) in the second set of switch disconnectors (102-2) thereby optimize the spatial utilization within the transfer switch (100) while ensuring efficient operation during power transfer operations.

4. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the terminals (110) are strategically positioned for seamless termination with cable lugs.

5. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is enclosed in a single contact housing (112), wherein the requirement of an additional component to enclose the contact pole parts is eliminated, resulting in a reduction in cost by minimizing material content and assembly time.

6. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is provided with an adjacent contact housing, wherein the adjacent contact housing serves as an enclosing component for the respective contact poles.

7. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) is adapted for reversed stacking, maintaining the offset positioning of the terminal (110) in a staggered manner in the reversed configuration.

8. The low voltage transfer switch as claimed in claim 1, wherein a termination tightening tool (116) accesses the termination point of the set of contact poles (104-1, 104-2) situated at the bottom or rear end of the transfer switch (100).