Arrangement for providing independent rotary and linear drive outputs

Abstract

An arrangement including an insulative support column provides independent rotary and linear drive outputs for the operation of electrical switches, circuit interrupters and/or disconnects or the like. A first, linear drive linkage provides translating motion at a first output in response to linear translating motion at a first input. The linear drive arrangement is provided by an elongated, insulative operating member that is disposed within an elongated bore of the insulative support column, with the operating member extending through the top and bottom ends of the column. A second, rotary drive output is provided by rotation of the support column. The column fixedly carries a lower base member which is rotatably supported within a base housing. The operating member extends through and exits the base member and cooperates with a bearing carried by the base member. The lower end of the operating member is coupled to the linear drive linkage input. The support column is rotated by means of a suitable drive linkage attached at the lower end of the column. A tubular shaft is fixedly carried at the top of the column, the operating member extending therein. Rotation of the tubular shaft is coupled through suitable linkage to drive a disconnect or the like. For interrupters that are mounted generally perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the support column, the cylindrical wall of the tubular shaft is cut away to provide for the output connection of the operating member to a transfer linkage without interference from the rotation of the tubular shaft.