Interrupter switch with coordination of disconnect and interrupter

Abstract

An arrangement is provided that includes a coordinating input for a mechanism of an interrupter switch; the coordinating input being derived from sensed movement of an element away from a first position and toward a second position. The coordinating input is utilized to trip the interrupters if they are closed. In a specific arrangement, a stored-energy mechanism is tripped to provide opening and closing of the interrupters via a high-speed interrupter drive train. The tripping arrangement is operable via a first input to cause movement of a latch member to release the stored-energy mechanism to operate the interrupter drive train. The first input may be actuated via open or close instructions, including both local and remote capabilities. The latch for the stored-energy mechanism is reset after each actuation. An output shaft of the mechanism is connected to drive the interrupter drive train. Both opening and closing are accomplished via rotation of the output shaft in the same direction. An open/close sensing input for the interrupter drive train is derived from the position of the output shaft. In a specific embodiment, the sensed movement of the element corresponds to the movement of a disconnect linkage away from a closed position. The input from the disconnect linkage is utilized to release the latch member only if the open/close sensing input is in the closed position.