Sectionalizer with externally mounted electronic controller

A sectionalizer apparatus comprising:

• mounting structure including first and second electrical contacts spaced from one another;
• rigid electrically conductive structure having an external surface and provided with first and second electrical terminals adapted to engage the first and second electrical contacts of the mounting structure when the sectionalizer is in a closed condition;
• release means for releasing the electrically conductive structure from engagement with at least the first electrical contact to permit the electrically conductive structure to move from the closed position to an open position;
• actuating means for actuating the release means;
• and
• control means for detecting a condition in the sectionalizer and for controlling the actuator in response to the detection, the control means including an electronic control circuit mounted to the external surface of the conductive structure,
• said conductive structure being capable of carrying the normal electrical current load imposed on the sectionalizer in use, and of sufficient structural strength to support the control means and carry mechanical load applied on the conductive structure by the contacts when the structure is in said closed condition.