Single pole, single current path switching system and method

An electromechanical switching device, comprising:

• an electromagnetic operator configured to receive a control signal instructing the electromechanical switching device to open or close, wherein the electromagnetic operator comprises a core comprising an alignment aperture;
• a generally U-shaped yoke comprising two upstanding sides, wherein ends of the two standing sides have reduced dimensions compared to other portions of the yoke to promote saturation of the ends when the electromagnetic operator is energized;
• stationary contacts disposed in a device housing;
• and
• a movable assembly comprising:
• movable contacts configured to, which the stationary contacts, open and close a single current carrying path through the electromechanical switching device;
• and
• an alignment pin, wherein the alignment pin is configured to extend into the alignment aperture to maintain alignment of the movable assembly during movement of the movable assembly.

An electromechanical switching device, comprising:

• an electromagnetic operator configured to receive a control signal instructing the electromechanical switching device to open or close, wherein the electromagnetic operator comprises:
• a generally cylindrically shaped core;
• and
• a generally U-shaped yoke comprising two upstanding sides, wherein ends of the two standing sides have reduced dimensions compared to other portions of the yoke to promote saturation of the ends when the electromagnetic operator is energized;
• stationary contacts disposed in a device housing;
• and
• a movable assembly configured to be displaced by energizing or de-energizing the electromagnetic operator, wherein the movable assembly comprises movable contacts configured to, with the stationary contacts, open and close a single current carrying path in the electromechanical switching device.