Switchgear racking mechanism including self-retaining crank and draw-out unit position indicator

摘要

A racking mechanism (30) for switchgear cubicle (20) draw-out units (24) including a base (39); and a drive screw assembly (44) attached to the base (39) including a screw block (36) translated by rotation of the screw. The screw block (36) is adapted for selective coupling to a draw-out unit (24). Drive surfaces (72) are constructed on the drive screw assembly (44). A biased racking shield (52) which surrounds at least a portion of the drive surfaces (72) in a first position is translatable to a second position by exerting counter-biasing force against the racking shield, in order to expose a portion of the drive surfaces (72). A crank assembly (76) having a socket portion (80) is engageable with the drive surfaces (72) when the racking shield (52) is translated to its second position, in order to rotate the drive screw (44). The socket portion (80) is retained in engagement with the drive surfaces (72) upon translation of the racking shield (52) to its second position by detent groove (74) and spring plungers (82). The racking mechanism (30) may include a tape indicator assembly (96) visible while cranking the crank assembly (76).