Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
[0001] The present disclosure relates, in general, to switchgear and circuit breakers, and more specifically, relates to a mounting arrangement of add-on modules which are provided with an electrical trip unit for draw-out air circuit breakers (ACBs).

BACKGROUND
[0002] Circuit breakers are commonly known as interrupters that open and close the contacts to start and stop the flow of electrical current to the circuit. Circuit breakers are used to safeguard the electrical equipment from over-current situations or short-circuit current situations in equipment. In case of fault current conditions, the electrical contacts within the circuit breaker will open and stop the flow of current through the circuit breaker to the equipment. In a typical electrical system, they are connected so that they form a hierarchy. The circuit breakers in higher level are expected to trip in case the lower ones fail to clear the fault. Thus, circuit breakers in these levels are expected to withstand fault current for some time before opening the contacts.
[0003] Generally, circuit breakers are categorized into two types, viz. fixed and draw-out. The fixed type consists of only a main body and is fixed directly to a switch panel while the draw-out type consists of the main body that can be inserted and retracted out of an arrangement which is usually called cradle. The cradle arrangement is fixed directly with the panel. The arrangement is made so that the breaker can then be inserted or retracted easily without much effort from the user's side.
[0004] Sometimes, users may also want to disconnect the loads connected to the supply during some abnormal conditions like voltage sag, overcurrent, current imbalance or some other reason. To give the command to switch for tripping in those cases a release or electrical trip unit is used. ETU or electrical trip unit is like the brain of switchgear. It can monitor electrical parameters like current & voltage, measure the temperature of designated locations and provide communication features to which user or other connected devices. It can also process & display the data to customers and finally and most importantly give signals for tripping when it detects abnormal conditions. Even though there are too many possibilities and features which can be provided with the help of ETU, not all users may need all the features. Also, since adding features increases cost, this further reduces the incentive for purchasing ETUs with features not required for users. Hence, generally, users tend to buy the most economical ETU with the required features.
[0005] However, there are cases where the customer needs a new feature down the line or there are few specific features that the customer needs which are not present in desired ETU, these modules will provide flexibility to the customer so that they can purchase additional modules or block with desired functions and then connect it to existing ETU to increase its functionality. However since the switchgear is already installed on the panel, the user may not find the space inside the switchgear for mounting these modules. Thus, the user may need to modify the panel/switchboard to provide a mounting arrangement. This results in additional cost as well as time.
[0006] Therefore, it is desired to overcome the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and develop an arrangement for mounting these modules inside the cradle of the switchgear itself with a rotary arrangement to give users flexibility for making connections and easy access.

OBJECTS OF THE PRESENT DISCLOSURE
[0007] An object of the present disclosure relates, in general, to switchgear and circuit breakers, and more specifically, relates to a mounting arrangement of add-on modules which are provided with an electrical trip unit for draw-out ACBs.
[0008] Another object of the present disclosure provides a mounting arrangement that includes a modular mechanism that extends towards the user, facilitating easier access to control gear termination points, and thereby prioritizing user convenience during installation, maintenance, and modification activities.
[0009] Another object of the present disclosure mounts add-on modules inside the switchgear, providing a more versatile and adaptable configuration, allowing for efficient utilization of available space within the switchgear.
[0010] Another object of the present disclosure provides a rotary arrangement of the mounting mechanism for add-on modules, coupled with cam-controlled sliding and rotary motion, ensuring smooth and controlled movements, thereby enhancing the overall stability and reliability of the mounting process.
[0011] Another object of the present disclosure provides the separation of add-on modules modularity and ease of handling during installation and maintenance.
[0012] Another object of the present disclosure provides distinct positions, namely the engaged and disengaged positions, to contribute to enhanced safety by securely latching the module in the engaged position. This prevents inadvertent movements or disconnections, ensuring the integrity of the switchgear system during regular operation.
[0013] Yet another object of the present disclosure provides a disengaged position that allows for the de-latching and outward drawing of the module, providing convenient access to connections, and enabling efficient and safe handling of connections.

SUMMARY
[0014] The present disclosure relates to in general, switchgear and circuit breakers, and more specifically, relates to a mounting arrangement of add-on modules which are provided with an electrical trip unit for draw-out ACBs. The main objective of the present disclosure is to overcome the drawbacks, limitations, and shortcomings of the existing mechanism and solution, by providing a mounting arrangement for a draw-out circuit breaker that includes a main switchgear body and a cradle assembly fixed inside switchboards for inserting and removing the main switchgear body. The module mechanism, responsible for mounting add-on modules into the cradle assembly, features a backplate, cam plates, a guide pin, latch plates, a latch pin, a spring guide pin, and a latching spring. The engaged position securely latches the add-on modules, allowing the closure of the panel door and switchgear activation. In the disengaged position, the modules are unlatched for convenient access to the secondary circuit (SICs) during connection activities. The module mechanism enables controlled transitions between engaged and disengaged positions, ensuring secure latching, controlled movements, and facilitated access for maintenance activities. The engagement and disengagement involve interactions between guide pins, cam profiles, latch plates, and other components, providing a reliable and user-friendly mounting solution for the draw-out circuit breaker.
[0015] In an aspect, the module mechanism for mounting add-on modules into the cradle assembly positioned in front of the SIC. The module mechanism of the add-on modules can include a backplate, a pair of cam plates, a latch plate, latch spring, a guide pin, a latch pin, a spring guide pin and spacer.
[0016] The backplate that forms backbone of the module mechanism, providing structural support. The pair of cam plates accommodated on left and right sides of cradle side plates to provide cam profiles. The guide pin accommodated on recess at rear portion of corresponding cam profiles that enable controlled sliding and rotational movements of the guide pin within the cam profiles. The latch plate equipped with protrusions, the latch plates being configured to engage with corresponding cam plates through a secure nesting of the protrusions within cuts on the corresponding cam plates, thereby facilitating a controlled and reliable latching interaction of the latch plates with the corresponding cam plates. The latch pin and a spring guide pin accommodated on corresponding aperture on both sides of the backplate , the latch pin and the spring guide pin facilitate controlled sliding and vertical motion of the latch plates and the latching spring extending between the spring guide pins and the latch plates , serving as extension springs for secure maintenance of the latching mechanism, wherein the module mechanism of the add-on modules operates in an engaged position to secure the add-on modules and facilitates a controlled transition to a disengaged position for access to the SICs during connection activities.
[0017] In another aspect, the module mechanism can include projections on the backplate interacting with the cam profiles on the pair of cam plates to control sliding, rotary, and latching movements. At the engaged position, the add-on modules are securely latched, allowing for closure of a panel door and activation of the switchgear. At the disengaged position, the add-on modules are de-latched and drawn outward to facilitate access to connections of the SIC and the add-on modules.
[0018] At the engaged position, the guide pins secured in the recess at back of the cam profiles, restraining inadvertent sliding or rotating unless intentionally lifted. The engaged position ensures the protrusion of the latch plates are nestled within the cuts on the corresponding cam plates, preventing vertical movement and securely latching the module mechanism.
[0019] The module mechanism allows for transition from the engaged position to the disengaged position by pulling the latch plates towards the user, lifting the module mechanism upward, releasing the guide pin from the recess, and subsequently pulling the module mechanism towards the user for disengagement. Further, the module mechanism allows for transition from the disengaged position to the engaged position by lifting the module mechanism upwards, releasing the guide pin from the recess, and pushing the module mechanism inside, guided by the projections on the backplate for controlled vertical orientation.
[0020] Further, the module mechanism comprises a gravity-induced rotation of the backplate during transition to the disengaged position, enabling access for termination on both SIC and add-on modules. The guide pin securely accommodates within a smaller recess in the engaged position and smoothly transitions by sliding into the larger recess, getting securely locked within the larger recess in the disengaged position.
[0021] 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
[0022] 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.
[0023] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary view of draw out circuit breaker, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0024] FIG. 1B illustrates an exemplary view of modular mechanism of the draw out circuit breaker, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0025] FIG. 1C illustrates an exemplary side view of cradle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0026] FIG. 1D illustrates an exemplary side view of addon module assembly in cradle at engaged state, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0027] FIG. 2A illustrates an exemplary isometric view of the add-on module assembly in cradle, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0028] FIG. 2B illustrates an exemplary isometric view of the add-on module assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0029] FIG. 2C illustrates an exemplary side view of the add-on module assembly at latched position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0030] FIG. 2D illustrates an exemplary side view of the add-on module assembly at de-latched position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0031] FIG. 2E illustrates an exemplary sectional side view of add-on modules assembly at engaged position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0032] FIG. 2F illustrates an exemplary sectional side view of addon module assembly at de-latched position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0033] FIG. 2G illustrates an exemplary sectional side view of add-on module assembly at disengaged position, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0034] FIG. 3A to 3C illustrates exemplary views of modular mechanism of the add-on module assembly, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0035] 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.
[0036] 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.
[0037] The disclosed mounting arrangement for a draw-out circuit breaker includes a main switchgear body and a cradle assembly fixed inside switchboards for inserting and removing the main switchgear body. The module mechanism, responsible for mounting add-on modules into the cradle assembly, features a backplate, cam plates, a guide pin, latch plates, a latch pin, a spring guide pin, and a latch spring. The engaged position securely latches the add-on modules, allowing closure of the panel door and switchgear activation. In the disengaged position, the modules are unlatched for convenient access to the SIC during connection activities. The module mechanism enables controlled transitions between engaged and disengaged positions, ensuring secure latching, controlled movements, and facilitated access for maintenance activities. The engagement and disengagement involve interactions between guide pins, cam profiles, latch plates, and other components, providing a reliable and user-friendly mounting solution for the draw-out circuit breaker. The present disclosure can be described in enabling detail in the following examples, which may represent more than one embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0038] The advantages achieved by the mounting arrangement of the present disclosure can be clear from the embodiments provided herein. The mounting arrangement featuring a modular mechanism designed to extend towards the user, enhancing accessibility to control gear termination points. This prioritizes user convenience during installation, maintenance, and modification activities. By mounting add-on modules inside the switchgear, the present disclosure offers a versatile and adaptable configuration, optimizing space utilization efficiently. The rotary arrangement of the mounting mechanism, coupled with cam-controlled sliding and rotary motion, ensures smooth and controlled movements, thereby bolstering the stability and reliability of the mounting process. The present disclosure emphasizes modularity and ease of handling through the separation of add-on modules during installation and maintenance. Additionally, distinct engaged and disengaged positions enhance safety by securely latching modules during regular operation while allowing convenient access to connections in the disengaged position, facilitating efficient and safe handling. 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.
[0039] FIG. 1A illustrates an exemplary view of draw-out circuit breaker, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0040] Referring to FIG. 1A, the mounting arrangement 100 of the draw-out circuit breaker can include a main switchgear body 102 and a cradle assembly 104. The cradle assembly 104 is rigidly fixed inside switchboards and provides the connection with customer busbars. The main switchgear body 102 can be easily inserted or removed from the cradle assembly 104. The customer can easily do maintenance activities, wherein the customer performs control gear connections on secondary circuit (SIC) 108 depicted in FIG. 1D. The connection of add-on modules 106 to an electronic trip unit (ETU) is established via SIC 108 is depicted in FIG. 1B. The modular mechanism of the add-on modules 106 is situated on cradle side plates 110 positioned in front of the SIC 108, thereby enhancing both the connection with SICs and accessibility for the customer.
[0041] The mounting arrangement can be divided into two parts. The add-on modules 106 and the module mechanism. The module mechanism is an arrangement which facilitates the mounting of add-on modules 106 inside cradle assembly 104 and provides rotatory mechanisms and provision for latching in desired locations. The add-on module 106 can be mounted with the help of click fit or bolting or any arrangement as required. The add-on modules 106 connect with some connectors. The mechanism helps for its easy assembly and disassembly.
[0042] The module mechanism for mounting add-on modules 106 into the cradle assembly 104 is positioned in front of the SIC 108. The module mechanism of the add-on modules (106) can include a backplate 202, a pair of cam plates (204-1, 204-2), a latch plate 206, latch spring 208, a guide pin 210, a latch pin 212, a spring guide pin 214 and spacer 216.
[0043] The module mechanism of the add-on modules 106 can include the backplate 202, which forms the backbone of the entire arrangement depicted in FIG. 2A. Two guide pins 210 are situated on the backplate 202, where the guide pins 210 is depicted in FIG. 2B exhibits sliding and rotational movement within the cam profiles of both left cam plate 204-1 and right cam plate 204-2. The left cam plate 204-1 and right cam plate 204-2 are mounted on cradle side plates 110.
[0044] In an embodiment, backplate 202 forms backbone of the module mechanism, providing structural support. The pair of cam plates (204-1, 204-2) establishes cam profiles on the left and right sides of cradle side plates 110. The guide pin 210 is accommodated on recess at a rear portion of corresponding cam profiles that enables controlled sliding and rotational movements of the guide pin within the cam profiles. The latch plate 206 is equipped with protrusions, the latch plate 206 being configured to engage with corresponding cam plates (204-1, 204-2) through a secure nesting of the protrusions within cuts on the corresponding cam plates, thereby facilitating a controlled and reliable latching interaction of the latch plates with the corresponding cam plates. The latch pin 212 and the spring guide pin 214 accommodated on corresponding aperture on both sides of the backplate 202, the latch pin 212 and the spring guide pin 214 facilitate controlled sliding and vertical motion of the latch plate 206 and the latch spring 208 extending between the spring guide pin 214 and the latch plate 206, serving as extension springs for secure maintenance of the latching mechanism, wherein the module mechanism of the add-on modules operates in an engaged position to secure the add-on modules 106 and facilitates a controlled transition to a disengaged position for access to the SICs during connection activities.
[0045] In another embodiment, the module mechanism can include projections on the backplate (202) interacting with the cam profiles on the pair of cam plates (204-1, 204-2) to control sliding, rotary, and latching movements. At the engaged position, the add-on modules 106 is securely latched, allowing for the closure of a panel door and activation of the switchgear. At the disengaged position, the add-on modules (106) are de-latched and drawn outward to facilitate access to connections of the SIC and the add-on modules (106).
[0046] At the engaged position, the guide pins 210 are secured in the recess at the back of the cam profiles, restraining inadvertent sliding or rotating unless intentionally lifted. The engaged position ensures the protrusion of the latch plate 206 is nestled within the cuts on the corresponding cam plates (204-1, 204-2), preventing vertical movement and securely latching the module mechanism.
[0047] The module mechanism allows for transition from the engaged position to the disengaged position by pulling the latch plate 206 towards the user, lifting the module mechanism upward, releasing the guide pin 210 from the recess, and subsequently pulling the module mechanism towards the user for disengagement. Further, the module mechanism allows for transition from the disengaged position to the engaged position by lifting the module mechanism upwards, releasing the guide pin 210 from the recess, and pushing the module mechanism inside, guided by the projections on the backplate 202 for controlled vertical orientation.
[0048] In an embodiment, the module mechanism can include a gravity-induced rotation of the backplate 202 during transition to the disengaged position, enabling access for termination on both SIC 108 and add-on modules 106. The guide pin 210 securely accommodates within a smaller recess in the engaged position and smoothly transitions by sliding into the larger recess, getting securely locked within the larger recess in the disengaged position.
[0049] In an embodiment, the backplate 202 is equipped with the latch pin 212 and the spring guide pin 214 accommodated on corresponding aperture of the backplate 202 on both sides, accompanied by latch plate 206 positioned on the left and right. The latch plate 206 incorporates two slots facilitating unrestricted sliding in relation to the backplate 202 through the aid of the guide pin 210 and latch pin 212. Additionally, the latch plate 206 are designed with user-friendly provision, allowing users to place their fingers for pulling the latch plate 206. The extension spring, referred to as the latch spring 208, is affixed to the spring guide pin 214 and attached to the latch plate 206, contributing to the latching mechanism's secure maintenance of its position.
[0050] In an embodiment, the module mechanism (also referred to as module assembly, herein) is positioned in front of the SIC 108, necessitating the removal of the module mechanism for user access to SIC 108 for new connections or modifications. To address the above limitations, the module mechanism is designed to be de-latched and rotated, allowing users to conveniently access SIC 108 and perform terminations on modules. Following the completion of modifications or terminations, the user can securely latch the mechanism back into its initial position, thereby facilitating seamless access to both SIC 108 and addon module connections.
[0051] The backplates 202 are equipped with dual projections on both sides, in conjunction with guide pins 210, which interface with cam plates (204-1, 204-2). The cam plates (204-1, 204-2) feature two distinct cam profiles, with one facilitating the motion of guide pin 210 and another surface providing support for the resting of projections. The projections, in tandem with guide pin 210, govern the sliding, rotary, and latching movements. Simultaneously, latch plate 206 exhibits unrestricted sliding relative to backplate 202, while the latch spring 208 consistently pulls the latch plate 206 towards the spring guide pin 214, ensuring controlled motion at all times.
[0052] The module mechanism functions in two distinct positions:
a) Engaged position, where the add-on module is securely latched, allowing for the closure of the panel door and activation of the switchgear.
b) Disengaged position, wherein the add-on module is de-latched and drawn outward to facilitate access to connections.
[0053] The inherent state of the mechanism is in the engaged position, enabling the customer to close the panel door and activate the switchgear. The transition to the disengaged position is intended for temporary access during connection activities, after which the mechanism is to be returned to the engaged position.
[0054] As shown in FIG. 2E, the guide pin 210 is accommodated in the smaller recess or depression of the cam profile towards the back side of the cam plates (204-1, 204-2) respectively. Hence it may not move in front or behind direction unless pulled up from the recess or depression. The projections on the backplate 202 which rest on cam plates (204-1, 204-2) prevent free rotation of backplate 202.
[0055] In latched position depicted in FIG. 2C, the tail or protrusion of latch plate 206 is accommodated inside the cut provided in the cam plates (204-1, 204-2). This prevents vertical motion of assembly unless latch plate 206 is pulled outside. Thus, in order to de-latch shown in FIG. 2F and FIG 2D, the user needs to pull the latch plate 206 towards themselves and then lift the mechanism upwards. The entire mechanism is pulled again towards themselves. This may de-latch the mechanism and bring backplate 202 in the front direction. Due to the unique arrangement of projection on the backplate and cam profile on cam plates (204-1, 204-2), the backplate 202 may rotate by default with the help of gravity and when the guide pin 210 slides in the bigger depression or recess in front and gets lock there due to gravity, backplate may have rotated by 90°. Thus, providing access for termination on both SIC 108 and add-on modules 106. This position is called disengaged position depicted in FIG. 2G.
[0056] Further, for moving the mechanism from disengaged to engaged position needs to only lift the assembly upwards so that guide pin 210 gets released from depression or recess and then push the assembly inside. Due guide from projections from backplate 202, the module once again becomes vertical when moving backside and finally, when it reaches the depression or recess in the backside, it falls inside due to gravity. The spring loaded latch plate 206 once again enter the cut in cam plates (204-1, 204-2) and latch the assembly so that it cannot move in any direction unless latch plate 206 are pulled in front with respect to back plates 202. Thus, the user can easily mount modules in switchgear and also access SIC & module terminations.
[0057] In an implementation, a switchgear panel in an electrical system is configured to facilitate the installation, maintenance, and access to electronic components such as SIC 108 and add-on modules 106 within the switchgear.
[0058] Engaged Position (Normal Operating State): In the engaged position, the guide pin 210 is secured in the smaller depression or recess at the back of the cam profiles on cam plates (204-1, 204-2) respectively. This positioning restricts the movement of the guide pin 210, preventing any inadvertent sliding or rotating. The projections on the backplate 202 are situated on the cam plates (204-1, 204-2), acting as a restraint against free rotation of the backplate. The latch plate 206 have their tails or protrusion nestled within cuts on cam plates (204-1, 204-2), preventing vertical movement and ensuring the module assembly is securely latched.
[0059] Transition to Disengaged Position (Access Mode): To initiate access for connections or modifications, the user pulls the latch plate 206 towards themselves, lifts the entire mechanism upward, and then pulls the assembly towards themselves once more. This sequence disengages the mechanism, allowing the backplate 202 to rotate due to gravity. The guide pin 210 slides into the larger depression or recess at the front, effectively locking the rotation in a 90° position. This configuration is the disengaged position. The disengaged position provides convenient access to both SIC 108 and add-on modules 106 for termination or modification purposes.
[0060] Transition from Disengaged to Engaged Position (Return to Normal Operating State): Returning the mechanism to the engaged position is a straightforward process. The user lifts the assembly upward, releasing the guide pin 210 from the depression or recess, and then pushes the assembly inside. Guided by the projections on the backplate 202, the module returns to a vertical orientation as it moves backward. Eventually, due to gravity, it falls into the depression at the back. The spring-loaded latch plate 206 re-enter the cuts in cam plates (204-1, 204-2), latching the assembly securely. This engagement restricts movement in any direction unless the latch plate 206 are intentionally pulled forward with respect to the backplates 202. This operational design ensures that users can easily and safely manage connections, terminations, and modifications within the switchgear panel while maintaining the security and stability of the engaged position during regular operation.
[0061] FIG. 3A to 3C illustrate exemplary views of the modular mechanism of the add-on modules, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure.
[0062] In accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure, FIG. 3A to 3C provide illustrative views of the modular mechanism. FIG. 3A presents an isometric view of the module mechanism in the disengaged state. Additionally, FIG. 3B offers a side view, and FIG. 3C provides another side view of the module mechanism, both showcasing the disengaged configuration.
[0063] Thus, the present invention overcomes the drawbacks, shortcomings, and limitations associated with existing solutions, and provides a mounting arrangement featuring a modular mechanism designed to extend towards the user, enhancing accessibility to control gear termination points. This prioritizes user convenience during installation, maintenance, and modification activities. By mounting add-on modules inside the switchgear, the present disclosure offers a versatile and adaptable configuration, optimizing space utilization efficiently. The rotary arrangement of the mounting mechanism, coupled with cam-controlled sliding and rotary motion, ensures smooth and controlled movements, thereby bolstering the stability and reliability of the mounting process. The present disclosure emphasizes modularity and ease of handling through the separation of add-on modules during installation and maintenance. Additionally, distinct engaged and disengaged positions enhance safety by securely latching modules during regular operation while allowing convenient access to connections in the disengaged position, facilitating efficient and safe handling.
[0064] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the mounting arrangement 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
[0065] The present invention provides a mounting arrangement that includes a modular mechanism that extends towards the user, facilitating easier access to control gear termination points, thereby prioritizing user convenience during installation, maintenance, and modification activities.
[0066] The present invention mounts add-on modules inside the switchgear, providing a more versatile and adaptable configuration, allowing for efficient utilization of available space within the switchgear.
[0067] The present invention provides a rotary arrangement of the mounting mechanism for add-on modules, coupled with cam-controlled sliding and rotary motion, ensuring smooth and controlled movements, thereby enhancing the overall stability and reliability of the mounting process.
[0068] The present invention provides separation of add-on modules modularity and ease of handling during installation and maintenance.
[0069] The present invention provides distinct positions, namely the engaged and disengaged positions, which contribute to enhanced safety by securely latching the module in the engaged position. This prevents inadvertent movements or disconnections, ensuring the integrity of the switchgear system during regular operation.
[0070] The present invention provides a disengaged position that allows for the de-latching and outward drawing of the module, providing convenient access to connections, and enabling efficient and safe handling of connections.
, Claims:1. A mounting arrangement (100) of a draw-out circuit breaker, the mounting arrangement comprising:
a main switchgear body (102);
a cradle assembly (104) rigidly fixed inside switchboards, adapted for the insertion and removal of the main switchgear body (102);
a module mechanism for mounting add-on modules (106) into the cradle assembly (104) positioned in front of a secondary circuit (SIC) (108), the module mechanism of the add-on modules (106) comprising:
a backplate (202) that forms backbone of the module mechanism, providing structural support;
a pair of cam plates (204-1, 204-2) establishes cam profiles on left and right sides of cradle side plates (110);
a guide pin (210) accommodated on recess at a rear portion of corresponding cam profiles that enable controlled sliding and rotational movements of the guide pin within the cam profiles;
a latch plate (206) equipped with protrusions, the latch plate (206) being configured to engage with corresponding cam plates (204-1, 204-2) through a secure nesting of the protrusions within cuts on the corresponding cam plates, thereby facilitating a controlled and reliable latching interaction of the latch plates with the corresponding cam plates;
a latch pin (212) and a spring guide pin (214) accommodated on corresponding aperture on both sides of the backplate (202), the latch pin (212) and the spring guide pin (214) facilitate controlled sliding and vertical motion of the latch plate (206); and
a latch spring (208) extending between the spring guide pin (214) and the latch plate (206), serving as extension spring for secure maintenance of the latching mechanism, wherein the module mechanism of the add-on modules operates in an engaged position to secure the add-on modules (106) and facilitates a controlled transition to a disengaged position for access the SIC during connection activities.
2. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module mechanism comprises projections on the backplate (202) interacting with the cam profiles on the pair of cam plates (204-1, 204-2) to control sliding, rotary, and latching movements.
3. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein at the engaged position, the add-on modules (106) are securely latched, allowing for closure of a panel door and activation of the switchgear.
4. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein at the disengaged position, the add-on modules (106) are de-latched and drawn outward to facilitate access to connections of both the SIC and the add-on modules (106).
5. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein at the engaged position, the guide pin (210) is secured in the recess at the rear portion of the cam profiles, restraining inadvertent sliding or rotating unless intentionally lifted.
6. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the engaged position ensures the protrusion of the latch plate (206) are nestled within the cuts on the corresponding cam plates (204-1, 204-2), preventing vertical movement and securely latching the module mechanism.
7. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module mechanism allows for transition from the engaged position to the disengaged position by pulling the latch plate (206) towards a user, lifting the module mechanism upward, releasing the guide pin (210) from the recess, and subsequently pulling the module mechanism towards the user for disengagement.
8. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module mechanism allows for transition from the disengaged position to the engaged position by lifting the module mechanism upwards, releasing the guide pin (210) from the recess, and pushing the module mechanism inside, guided by the projections on the backplate (202) for controlled vertical orientation.
9. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the module mechanism comprises a gravity-induced rotation of the backplate (202) during the transition to the disengaged position, enabling access for termination on both the SIC (108) and the add-on modules (106).
10. The mounting arrangement as claimed in claim 1, wherein the guide pin (210) securely accommodates within a smaller recess in the engaged position and smoothly transitions by sliding into the larger recess, getting locked within the larger recess in the disengaged position.