Latching device and an operating mechanism with such a latching device

A latching device for an operating mechanism for an electrical switching apparatus. The device has a locking member movable between a first position and a second position. In the first position the locking member is arranged to lock a drive member of the operating mechanism in a locked position, and a force of the drive member being applied to a contact portion of the locking member. In the second position the locking member is arranged to release the drive member from the locked position. At least in the first position the locking member is arranged to bear against the counter roller. A tripping member is movable between a first position locking the locking member and a second position releasing the locking member. The locking member has a first portion and a second portion. The first portion is rotatable connected to a first link around a first pivot axis, which first pivot axis is movable perpendicular to its direction. The second portion is rotatable connected to a second link around a second pivot axis and movable perpendicular to its direction. The second link is rotatable connected to the tripping element around a third pivot axis. Movement of the tripping member from its first position to its second position initiates movement of the contact portion out of force-transmitting relation with the drive member.