ELECTRICAL DISTRIBUTION CABINET

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical cabinet which supplies power to at least two electrical loads (14) and comprises: - electromechanical units (130) each supplying power to an electrical load and comprising an analysis device, a controlled switch and a magnetic protection device protecting the electromechanical unit and the electrical load; and - electronic units (30) each supplying power to an electrical load, comprising an analysis device and a controlled switch and being devoid of a magnetic protection device. The electrical cabinet comprises two functional zones, a first one of which houses at least one electromechanical unit, and a second one of which houses at least two electronic units and a common protection device (60) which is separate from the electronic units and protects all the electronic units of the second functional zone and the electrical loads that are connected to same. In addition, the first functional zone is suitable for accommodating at least two electronic units and a common protection device, and the second functional zone is suitable for accommodating at least one electromechanical unit.

Description

[0001] TITLE: Electrical connection cabinet

[0002] The present invention relates to an electrical connection cabinet.

[0003] In the field of industrial electrical cabinets, it is known to install one or more control units in an electrical connection cabinet. These control units each allow the electrical cabinet to be connected to electrical equipment and to control this electrical equipment, in particular using a contactor. It is also known to protect each control unit using a magnetic protection device, such as a magnetic circuit breaker, each magnetic protection device making it possible to supply electricity to a control unit and to electrically protect this control unit and the electrical equipment connected to it. These magnetic protection devices are generally directly integrated into the control units.Such protective devices are inexpensive, so the presence of a magnetic protection device per control unit does not represent a significant additional cost in the manufacture of the electrical cabinet. However, such magnetic protection devices are not very efficient, and their cut-off time is relatively long, which can cause damage to the control units when they are triggered, such as for example welding of the contactor.

[0004] It is also known to use, in industrial electrical cabinets, protective devices common to several control units, which are not integrated into the control units but arranged outside the control units. In general, a protective device is used to simultaneously protect several control units when it has higher performance than a magnetic protection device, and therefore a larger footprint and manufacturing cost than a magnetic protection device. Such a protective device is, for example, a hybrid type protective device, which combines the use of a semiconductor and an electromechanical cut-off device.Using the protection device in common for several control-command units therefore makes it possible to accommodate the greater size of this type of protection device and to reduce the protection cost per control-command unit.

[0005] US-A1 -2015 / 0103472 and EP-A1 -2557643 describe prior art electrical cabinets, and CA-A1 -3124942 describes a prior art protection device.

[0006] In known industrial electrical cabinets, there is no architecture that allows for the arrangement, in the same electrical cabinet, of both control units incorporating magnetic protection devices and control units protected by protection devices common to several control units.

[0007] This is the problem that the invention aims to address more specifically by proposing an electrical connection cabinet capable of accommodating various control-command units protected either by magnetic type protection devices or by protection devices common to several control-command units.

[0008] To this end, the invention relates to an electrical connection cabinet, the electrical cabinet being configured to supply and control at least two electrical loads. According to the invention, the electrical cabinet comprises several control-command units, chosen from:

[0009] - electromechanical units, each electromechanical unit being configured to power and control an electrical load and comprising an electronic analysis device, a controlled switch configured to enable or interrupt the power supply to the electrical load, and a magnetic type protection device configured to protect the electromechanical unit and the electrical load against electrical faults,

[0010] - electronic units, each electronic unit being configured to power and control an electrical load, comprising an electronic analysis device and a controlled switch configured to enable or interrupt the power supply to the electrical load and being devoid of a magnetic type protection device.

[0011] In addition, the electrical cabinet includes at least two functional areas, including:

[0012] - a first functional zone accommodates at least one electromechanical unit, and

[0013] - a second functional zone accommodates at least two electronic units and a common protection device configured to protect all the electronic units of the second functional zone and the electrical loads connected thereto against electrical faults, the common protection device being separate from the electronic units.

[0014] In addition, the first functional area is further adapted to receive at least two electronic units and a common protection device, and the second functional area is further adapted to receive at least one electromechanical unit.

[0015] Thanks to the invention, it is possible to install, in the same functional area of ​​the electrical cabinet, electromechanical units protected by magnetic type protection devices, or electronic units protected by protection devices common to these electronic units. The electrical cabinet is thus modular, and the control-command units are chosen from among the electromechanical units and the electronic units, depending on the nature of the electrical loads to be supplied and controlled.

[0016] According to advantageous, but not obligatory, aspects of the invention, the functional module incorporates one or more of the following characteristics, taken in isolation or in any technically admissible combination:

[0017] - A width of each electromechanical unit is strictly greater than a width of each electronic unit, the widths being measured between two side walls of the control-command units, and in which, in the second functional zone, the common protection device extends over the entire height of the second functional zone and is arranged on one side of the electronic units, along a longitudinal axis of the electrical cabinet.

[0018] - Each control unit comprises a rear base, which carries electrical input connectors, configured to supply electrical power to the control unit when the control unit is mounted in the electrical cabinet, and electrical output connectors, configured to supply electrical power to the electrical load connected to the control unit when the control unit is mounted in the electrical cabinet. In addition, the rear base of the electromechanical units is identical to the rear base of the electronic units, a width of the rear base is identical to the width of the electronic units, and preferably, each electromechanical unit further comprises a widening piece, arranged on one side of the rear base of the electromechanical unit, so that the sum of the width of the rear base and a width of the widening piece is equal to the width of the electromechanical units.

[0019] - Each control-command unit is a control-command drawer, movable in the first or second functional zone between three main positions:

[0020] - an operating position of the control-command drawer, in which the control-command drawer is configured to be connected to the electrical load and in which the control-command drawer is connected to a communication module of the electrical cabinet,

[0021] - a test position of the control-command drawer, in which the control-command drawer is configured not to be connected to the electrical load and in which the control-command drawer is connected to the communication module, and - a disconnected position of the control-command drawer, in which the control-command drawer is configured not to be connected to the electrical load and in which the control-command drawer is not connected to the communication module.

[0022] - Each control-command drawer comprises a side wall carrying a movable side contact configured to allow the exchange of data between the control-command drawer and the communication module, the movable side contact being fixed relative to the communication module when the control-command drawer is moved between its operating position and its test position, and in which the side wall and the movable side contact of the electromechanical units, on the one hand, and of the electronic units, on the other hand, are identical.

[0023] - Each control drawer comprises a position detector, configured to detect whether the control drawer is in the operating position, the test position or the disconnected position, and a locking system, configured to lock the control drawer in the operating position or the test position, and in which the position detector and the locking mechanism of the electromechanical units, on the one hand, and of the electronic units, on the other hand, are identical.

[0024] - The magnetic type protection device of each electromechanical unit comprises an electromechanical relay, configured to cut off the power supply to the controlled switch of the electromechanical unit in the event of a short circuit occurring at the level of the electrical load connected to the electromechanical unit, this cut-off taking place in a time greater than 5 ms.

[0025] - The common protection device of the second functional zone is of the hybrid type and includes:

[0026] - a semiconductor, configured to detect a short circuit occurring at an electrical load connected to one of the electronic units of the second functional zone, or at one of the electronic units, and

[0027] - an electromechanical protection element, configured to cut off the power supply to the electronic units of the second functional zone, this cut-off taking place in a time less than 500 ps after detection of the short circuit.

[0028] - A front part of each electromechanical unit has a mechanical switch controlling the switching between an open state and a closed state of the magnetic type protection device of the electromechanical unit, configured to be actuated by a user, and in which a front face of the common protection device has a mechanical switch controlling the switching between an open state and a closed state of the common protection device, configured to be actuated by a user.

[0029] - The electrical cabinet comprises at least two functional modules, each functional module comprising:

[0030] - either at least one electromechanical unit or at least two electronic units,

[0031] - if the functional module includes electronic units, a common protection device,

[0032] - a section of computer bus, connected to all the control-command units of the functional module,

[0033] - as many connection modules as there are control-command units, each connection module being configured to connect an electrical load to a control-command unit,

[0034] - as many input-output modules as there are control-command units, each input-output module being configured to connect the computer bus section to a control-command unit and to the electrical load connected to this control-command unit and to allow the exchange of operating data between said electrical load, on the one hand, and said control-command unit and the computer bus section, on the other hand, and

[0035] - a support structure, on which each control-command unit, the computer bus section, each connection module, each input-output module and, where applicable, the common protection device are fixed.

[0036] In addition, each functional area accommodates a functional module, the computer bus sections of all the functional modules are connected to each other and to a communication module of the electrical cabinet, and the computer bus section, the connection modules and the input-output modules of the functional modules comprising one or more electromechanical units, on the one hand, and of the functional modules comprising one or more electronic units, on the other hand, are identical.

[0037] The invention will be better understood and other advantages thereof will appear more clearly in the light of the following description of an embodiment of an electrical connection cabinet in accordance with its principle, given solely by way of example and with reference to the appended drawings in which:

[0038] [Fig. 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram of an electrical cabinet according to the invention;

[0039] [Fig. 2] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a first functional module belonging to the electrical cabinet of Figure 1; [Fig. 3] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a drawer belonging to the functional module of Figure 2;

[0040] [Fig. 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view of the drawer of Figure 3, seen from another angle;

[0041] [Fig. 5] Figure 5 is a perspective view of a hybrid type protection device belonging to the functional module of Figure 2;

[0042] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 is a perspective view of a part of a structure belonging to the functional module of Figure 2;

[0043] [Fig. 7] Figure 7 is a perspective view of a second functional module belonging to the electrical cabinet of Figure 1, seen from another angle;

[0044] [Fig. 8] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a part of a third functional module belonging to the electrical cabinet of Figure 1;

[0045] [Fig. 9] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a drawer belonging to the third functional module of Figure 8; and

[0046] [Fig. 10] Figure 10 is a perspective view of the drawer of Figure 9, seen from another angle.

[0047] An electrical cabinet 10 is shown in Figure 1. This electrical cabinet is intended to be integrated into a partially shown electrical network. This electrical network comprises on the one hand, upstream of the electrical cabinet 10, power cables 12 coming for example from a transformer station and on the other hand, downstream of the electrical cabinet, one or more electrical loads 14.

[0048] The electrical cabinet 10 is a connection cabinet configured to connect the electrical loads 14 to the power cables 12.

[0049] The electrical loads 14 may, for example, be electric motors, such as three-phase motors, electricity distribution networks, or even controllable electrical loads, such as batteries or photovoltaic panels.

[0050] In the installed configuration of the electrical cabinet 10, the cabinet rests on a horizontal surface, such as for example the floor of a building in which the electrical cabinet 10 is installed.

[0051] A longitudinal axis X of the electrical cabinet 10 is defined as being the axis of the largest dimension of the electrical cabinet 10, in practice its length, a transverse axis Y as being the axis of the smallest dimension of the electrical cabinet 10 and perpendicular to the axis X, in practice its width, and a vertical axis Z as being the third axis of an orthogonal reference system comprising the axes X and Y.

[0052] The orientation of the X, Y and Z axes is fixedly linked to the orientation of the electrical cabinet 10. The orientation of the electrical cabinet 10 described in the present disclosure corresponds to its installed configuration. It is therefore understood that the orientation of the X, Y and Z axes varies when the orientation of the electrical cabinet 10 varies. For example, the Z axis may not be vertical when the cabinet 10 is not in the installed configuration, for example when it is transported. The terms “top”, “bottom” and “vertical” used in the remainder of the disclosure are understood to relate to the Z axis.

[0053] In the installed configuration described here, the plane formed by the X and Y axes is horizontal and parallel to the horizontal surface on which the cabinet rests when it is in the installed configuration, while the Z axis is perpendicular to this horizontal surface. The term "horizontal" used in the remainder of the description applies to any element contained in a plane parallel to the plane formed by the X and Y axes, in the installed configuration of the electrical cabinet 10. The terms "left" and "right" are understood relative to the X axis and the terms "front" and "rear" are understood relative to the Y axis.

[0054] The relative positioning of the parts and their orientation described below are given by way of example only and are not limiting. Unless explicitly stated otherwise, they are understood to be in the assembled and installed configuration of the electrical cabinet 10. Thus, when the orientation of a part with respect to the X, Y and / or Z axes is mentioned, it is understood to be in the assembled configuration of the cabinet. When the cabinet 10 is stored, transported, unassembled or during assembly, among other examples, the orientation of the parts and their relative positioning may vary.

[0055] The power cable 12 delivers to the electrical cabinet 10 a main electrical power supply, preferably of a voltage of 400V three-phase with neutral, preferably at a frequency of 50Hz. Advantageously, each phase and the neutral of the power cable 12 are connected to an input of a circuit breaker 16. Alternatively, the power cable 12 delivers a power supply of a voltage other than 400V, a power supply at a frequency different from 50Hz, a three-phase power supply without neutral, or a single-phase power supply. The circuit breaker 16 then comprises a suitable number of inputs.

[0056] The electrical cabinet 10 comprises a busbar 18 comprising several power bars, in the example four power bars, each power bar being connected to an output of the circuit breaker 16. The busbar 18 makes it possible to distribute the electrical power coming from the power cable 12 and passing through the circuit breaker 16 to the various elements arranged in the electrical cabinet 10 and allowing connection to the electrical loads 14.

[0057] Advantageously, the circuit breaker 16 is arranged in a power supply column 10A of the electrical cabinet 10, and the elements of the electrical cabinet allowing connection to the electrical loads 14 are distributed in different connection columns, in the example in two connection columns 10B and 10C. In a variant not shown, the electrical cabinet 10 comprises a number of connection columns other than two, for example one column or three connection columns.

[0058] The electrical cabinet 10 is controlled by an industrial computer 20. In practice, the industrial computer 20 comprises a computing unit (not shown) which executes software for managing the electrical cabinet 10.

[0059] Alternatively, the industrial computer 20 is replaced by a real-time control and data acquisition system, called “SCADA”, which supervises the operation of the electrical cabinet 10, or the computer is integrated into such a system.

[0060] Each connection column 10B, 10C comprises a communication module 22. As visible in FIG. 1, the communication module 22 is positioned near the upper end of each connection column 10B, 10C. In a variant of the invention not shown, the communication module 22 of each connection column is positioned at the lower end of the column.

[0061] The communication module 22 of a connection column 10B, 10C makes it possible to centralize all the information coming from this connection column and to control the connection column.

[0062] The communication modules 22 communicate with the industrial computer 20 via communication cables or via wireless links, on the one hand to transmit information on the operation of the connection columns 10B, 10C and on the other hand to receive the commands coming from the industrial computer and to be transmitted to the connection columns.

[0063] The communication module 22 of a connection column 10B, 10C therefore acts as an intermediary between the industrial computer 22 and this connection column and makes it possible to centralize the exchanges between the computer and the column.

[0064] Advantageously, all the communication modules 22 are connected to a central switch 24, preferably arranged in the power column 10A. This central switch 24 acts as an intermediary between the communication modules 22 and the industrial computer 20, that is to say that the information coming from the industrial computer, for example commands, is distributed between the communication modules 22 by the central switch 24 and that the information coming from the communication modules is aggregated by the central switch before being transmitted to the industrial computer. In a variant of the invention that is not shown, the electrical cabinet 10 does not include a central switch 24 and the communication modules 22 are directly connected to the industrial computer 20. Preferably, the internal communication cables connecting the industrial computer 20, the communication modules 22 and the central switch 24 are cables using the Ethernet protocol.Alternatively, internal communication cables use another local network protocol, such as MODBUS or PROFINET.

[0065] Generally speaking, a 10B, 10C connecting column can be configured for several different uses:

[0066] - A first configuration in which the connection column allows connection to electric motors, such as three-phase motors. The connection column then allows these electric motors to be powered and controlled. In this first configuration, the connection column is called a "motor starter column".

[0067] - A second configuration in which the connection column allows connection to downstream electrical distribution circuits, such as for example electrical panels or electrical distribution cabinets. The connection column then makes it possible to distribute the energy coming from the power cables 12 to several downstream circuits, and to protect these downstream circuits. In this second configuration, the connection column is then called a “current distribution column”.

[0068] - A third configuration in which the connection column allows connection to controllable electrical loads, such as photovoltaic panels or batteries. The connection column then allows these electrical circuits to be powered and controlled. In this third configuration, the connection column is then called a "load control column".

[0069] In the example, the connection columns 10A, 10B are motor starting columns. Some elements mentioned below are described in the context of a motor starting column, but their application is not limited exclusively to their use in a motor starting column. Thus, some elements introduced below can also apply to elements used in a current distribution column or in a load control column, for example.

[0070] In each connection column 10B, 10C, the electrical cabinet 10 comprises several functional zones 26, juxtaposed vertically, each functional zone accommodating one or more elements of the electrical cabinet allowing connection to the electrical loads 14.

[0071] All the functional zones 26 of the electrical cabinet 10 have the same dimensions. We denote “H26” the height of a functional zone 26, measured along the vertical axis Z, “L26” the width of a functional zone, measured along the longitudinal axis X and “P26” the depth of a functional zone, measured along the transverse axis Y. In practice, all the elements of a functional zone 26 are grouped into a functional module. Several functional modules belonging to the electrical cabinet 10 are described in the remainder of the presentation. In the example, these functional modules are therefore modules intended to be connected to electric motors, that is to say that these functional modules are motor starter modules.

[0072] The configuration and architecture of these modules can be transposed to other configurations, such as in the case of a current distribution column, where the functional module then corresponds to a distribution module which makes it possible to distribute an electric current to one or more downstream circuits and to protect these circuits, or in the case of a load control column, where the functional module then corresponds to a control module which makes it possible to supply electrical loads and control them. Other uses are possible.

[0073] In the example of Figure 1, the electrical cabinet 10 comprises five functional zones 26, each of these functional zones accommodating a functional module. Here, the electrical cabinet therefore comprises five functional modules. In practice, the connection column 10B comprises two functional modules and the connection column 10C comprises three functional modules.

[0074] A first functional module 28 is now described with reference to FIG. 2. In the example, the functional module 28 is arranged in the upper part of the connection column 10C, between the communication module 22 and the two other functional modules of the connection column 10C.

[0075] The functional module 28 has a height, measured along the vertical axis, identical to the height of the functional zone 26 in which it is mounted, i.e. a height equal to H26. Similarly, the depth of the functional module 28 is equal to P26.

[0076] The functional module 28 comprises four control-command units 30, juxtaposed vertically in the functional module, which each allow the electrical connection of an electrical load 14 to the electrical cabinet 10.

[0077] In the example shown, the control-command units 30 are control-command drawers which can therefore be installed in, and removed from, the functional module 28 simply and quickly, by a translational movement along the transverse axis Y. In a variant of the invention not shown, the control-command units 30 are fixed units of the cabinet, which are assembled in the functional module 28 during installation of the cabinet, for example by screwing into the functional module.

[0078] Advantageously, when the control-command units 30 are drawers, each of these drawers is movable in the functional module 28 between three positions: - An operating position, in which the drawer is fully inserted into the functional module. This position corresponds to the normal operating position of the drawer, that is to say that, on the one hand, the drawer supplies electrical energy to the electrical load 14 which is connected to it, and on the other hand, the drawer is connected to the communication module 22 of the connection column 10C. The three lower drawers are shown in the operating position in Figure 2.

[0079] - A test position, in which the drawer is partially inserted into the functional module. This position corresponds to an intermediate position in which the drawer operates, that is to say that the elements it contains are supplied with electrical energy and that it is connected to the communication module 22, but that the drawer does not supply an electrical load 14. The upper drawer is shown in the test position in Figure 2.

[0080] - A disconnected position of the drawer, in which the drawer is partially or completely extended from the functional module and in which the drawer is not supplied with electrical energy, is not connected to the communication module and does not supply an electrical load 14.

[0081] In general, the control-command units 30 also allow the control of the electrical loads 14 which are connected thereto. This control, also called piloting, consists, for example, when the electrical load is a motor, in piloting this motor, that is to say in starting it, stopping it and possibly controlling its speed, or again, when the electrical load is a distribution network, in delivering the voltage and intensity necessary for the proper functioning of this distribution network.

[0082] In addition, the control-command units 30 also allow the monitoring of the electrical loads 14 connected thereto. This monitoring consists, for example, of measuring the voltage and current delivered to the load 14, or of recovering information from sensors such as, for example, position or rotation speed sensors or temperature sensors when the load 14 is a motor.

[0083] Thus, each control-command unit 30 may have a role of connecting an electrical load 14, controlling this load and monitoring this load. However, depending on the type of electrical load connected to a control-command unit, this control-command unit may not have a role of controlling this load, or may not have a role of controlling the load.

[0084] In the example shown, the height of the control-command units 30 can take several defined values. A basic height of a control-command unit is defined as a unit height, denoted “U”. The height of a control-command unit can be equal to an integer multiple of this basic height, up to a limit of six times the unit height U. Thus, a control-command unit can occupy a height of 1 U, 2U, 3U, 4U, 5U or 6U. Preferably, the unit height U is equal to 50 mm. Thus, a control-command unit 138 of height 6U will have, in this example, a height of 300 mm.

[0085] Each functional module is configured to accommodate any technically permissible combination of control units 30, depending on the height of these control units. For example, a functional module can accommodate:

[0086] - six control units of height 1 U, as shown in the intermediate functional area of ​​column 10C in figure 1, or

[0087] - three 2U height control units, or

[0088] - a 6U high control unit, as shown in the lower functional area of ​​column 10B in Figure 1, or

[0089] - a 2U height control unit and a 4U height control unit, as shown in the upper functional area of ​​column 10B and in the lower functional area of ​​column 10C in Figure 1,

[0090] - two 2U height control units and two 1U control units, as shown in the upper functional area of ​​column 10C in Figure 1.

[0091] These examples are not limiting. Other distributions of the control-command units 30 within the functional zones are possible.

[0092] In the functional module 28 shown in Figure 2, among the control-command units 30, there are two control-command units 30A of height H30A equal to 1 U, and two control-command units 30B of height H30B equal to 2U.

[0093] One of the two 30A control units can be seen in more detail with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0094] The control-command unit 30A is generally parallelepipedal in shape and comprises a front part 32 and a rear part 34, which extend parallel to the X axis, two side walls 36, which extend parallel to the Y axis, a bottom 38 which extends between the front and rear parts and the side walls, and a cover 39, visible in Figure 2 and not shown in Figures 3 and 4. The bottom 38 extends in practice in a horizontal plane, perpendicular to the vertical axis Z.

[0095] We note “L30” the main width of the control-command unit 30A, measured along the X axis between the two side walls 36.

[0096] The control unit 30A is configured to be able to be moved between its operating, test and disconnected positions using a handle 40, provided in its front part 32, and intended to be maneuvered by a worker. At its rear part 34, the control unit 30A comprises a rear base 42, which carries input electrical connectors 44, output electrical connectors 46 and, preferably, a ventilation orifice 48 arranged between the input electrical connectors and the output electrical connectors. In the example, the control unit 30A comprises four input electrical connectors and four output electrical connectors. The width L42 of the rear base 42 is identical to the width L30 of the control unit 30A.

[0097] When the control unit 30A is in the operating position, that is to say when it is mounted in the electrical cabinet 10, the input electrical connectors 44 are provided to be electrically connected to the busbar 18, thus supplying electrical energy to the control unit, and the output electrical connectors 46 are provided to supply energy to the electrical load 14 connected to the control unit.

[0098] Advantageously, the control-command unit 30A comprises a movable lateral contact 50, arranged on one of the two side walls 36. The movable lateral contact connects the control-command unit 30A to the communication module 22 of the connection column 10C, that is to say it allows the exchange of data between the control-command unit and the communication module, or the supply of an auxiliary electrical voltage delivered by the communication module to the control-command unit.In practice, the movable side contact is mounted in a movable manner in one of the two side walls 36, so that, when the control unit is moved between its test and operating positions, the movable side contact moves, along the Y axis, relative to the control unit, and is fixed relative to the communication module, which makes it possible to maintain the connection between the control unit and the communication module during the movement of the control unit.

[0099] Advantageously, the control-command unit 30A comprises a position detector 52, arranged on one of the two side walls 36, which makes it possible to detect whether the control-command unit is in the operating position, in the test position or in the disconnected position. The position detector 52 comprises, for example, an actuator which cooperates with a structure of the functional module 28 to actuate switches, or sensors, when the control-command unit is in the test position or in the operating position.

[0100] Advantageously, the control-command unit 30A comprises a locking system 54, arranged on one of the two side walls 36, which makes it possible to lock the control-command unit in the test position or in the locking position, for example using an electromagnetic lock. Thanks to the locking system 54, it is, for example, possible to prevent a user from switching the control-command unit 30A from its operating position to its test position if an electrical load 14 is powered by the control-command unit, or from its test position to its operating position if an electrical load 14 connected to the control-command unit is not in an operating state compatible with its starting.

[0101] The control unit 30A comprises a controlled switch 56, shown schematically in Figures 3 and 4. The controlled switch is provided to enable or interrupt the power supply to the electrical load 14 connected to the control unit 30A, by electrically connecting, or electrically isolating, the output electrical connectors 46 to the input electrical connectors 44. The controlled switch 56 is for example a contactor. Thus, the state of the controlled switch 56 determines whether the electrical load connected to the control unit is in operation or stopped.

[0102] The control-command unit 30A comprises an electronic analysis device 58, which in the example is an electronic card. The electronic analysis device 58 is in practice connected to the communication module 22 of the connection column 10C, via the movable lateral contact 50. This device controls the state of the controlled switch 56, from the commands coming from the communication module 22.

[0103] Advantageously, the electronic analysis device 58 also performs functions for monitoring the operation of the control-command unit 30A and the electrical load 14 connected thereto, for example by monitoring the intensity of the current delivered to the electrical load 14. The data from these monitoring functions are transmitted to the communication module 22 of the connection column 10C.

[0104] Advantageously, the electronic analysis device 58 also provides thermal protection for the control-command unit 30A. In other words, the electronic analysis device 58 acts as a thermal protection device. Preferably, this thermal protection is carried out electronically, the electronic analysis device 58 incorporating a current sensor per phase and a microprocessor executing an algorithm analyzing the measured currents to detect signals representative of the presence of a thermal fault, such as for example an increase in current or an imbalance in the current measured between several phases. The electronic analysis device 58 is therefore also called an electronic analysis and thermal protection device.In practice, the control-command units 30B differ from the control-command unit 30A described above in that their height H30B is different, making it possible to accommodate a controlled switch 56 having larger dimensions. The control-command units 30B thus comprise a rear part, two side walls and a bottom identical to those of the control-command unit 30A described above. The control-command units 30B also comprise a front part, with a handle. The height of this front part is equal to the height H30B. Thus, it is simple to adapt the height of a control-command unit, since only the cover and the front part need to be modified.It is particularly advantageous to be able to simply adapt the height of a control unit, because this makes it possible to simply modify the dimensions of the controlled switch 56, in particular as a function of the electrical power consumed by the electrical load 14 connected to this control unit, because the dimensions of a controlled switch depend on the power of the electrical current flowing through the controlled switch.

[0105] To ensure the electrical protection of the control-command units 30, in particular in the event of failure of the electrical loads connected thereto, such as for example a short circuit, the functional module 28 also comprises a protection device 60, better visible in FIG. 5. The protection device 60 is separate from the control-command units 30, that is to say it is located outside the control-command units that it protects, within the same functional module 28.

[0106] Advantageously, the protection device 60 extends over the entire height of the functional module 28. In other words, the height of the protection device 60 is equal to H26. In practice, the protection device 60 is said to be “common”, because it is configured to electrically protect all the control-command units 30 of the functional module 28, that is to say the two units 30A and the two units 30B, as well as the electrical loads 14 which are connected to these control-command units. Thus, and although the protection device 60 is able to protect a single control-command unit, it is particularly suitable for protecting at least two control-command units. Furthermore, the protection device 60 is arranged, along the longitudinal axis X, on one side of the control-command units, in the example of FIG. 2 to the left of the control-command units.Thus, a side wall 61 of the protection device 60 faces the control-command units 30 when the functional module 28 is assembled.

[0107] In practice, the protection device 60 is electrically interposed between the busbar 18 and the controlled switch 56 of the control-command units 30. In other words, the protection device 60 is electrically connected on the one hand to the busbar and on the other hand to the controlled switch of each of the control-command units. The protection device 60 is switchable between an open state, in which the controlled switches 56 of the control-command units 30 are not supplied with electrical energy, and a closed state, in which the controlled switches of the control-command units are supplied with electrical energy. The connection of the protection device to the busbar is not detailed here, but can be carried out, for example, using electrical cables, conductive bars, or suitable connectors.

[0108] The protection device 60 comprises several electrical output connectors 62, distributed in groups, denoted 64. In the example, each group 64 comprises four electrical output connectors, and the protection device 60 comprises six groups 64. Each group 64 of electrical output connectors 62 is intended to be connected to the electrical input connectors 44 of a control-command unit 30, thus allowing the electrical connection between the protection device and the control-command unit.

[0109] In the example, since the functional module 28 comprises four control-command units 30, then four of the six groups 64 are connected to the electrical input connectors 44 of the control-command units 30, the other two groups 64 then not being used.

[0110] In practice, the groups 64 are used, or not, depending on the combination of control-command units 30 installed in the functional module 28.

[0111] The output electrical connectors 62 extend from the side wall 61 of the protective device 60, and are disposed at the rear of the protective device.

[0112] The protection device 60 is of the hybrid type, that is to say that it has increased performance compared to a magnetic protection device, or that it has more functions than a magnetic protection device. In the example, the protection device 60 of the hybrid type comprises an electromechanical protection element associated with a semiconductor, the semiconductor being connected in parallel with the electromechanical protection element, and the protection device of the hybrid type also comprises a short-circuit detection element. The protection device of the hybrid type is configured to cut off the power supply to all the control-command units 30 in the event of a short circuit at an electrical load 14 connected to one of the control-command units, that is to say to switch the protection device to the open state.This power cut of the control-command units thus causes the power cut of the electrical loads 14 connected thereto, and makes it possible to interrupt the electrical fault, thus protecting the control-command units and the electrical loads. Normally, the electrical power supply of the control-command units 30 passes through the electromechanical protection element and does not pass through the semiconductor.

[0113] In practice, in the example, the short-circuit detection element is capable of detecting a short circuit in a time less than 50 ps after the occurrence of the short circuit. When a short circuit occurs at an electrical load, the short-circuit detection element detects this short circuit and causes the electromechanical protection element to open, this opening taking place in a time less than 500 ps after detection of the short circuit. The electrical power supply to the control-command units 30 then passes through the semiconductor. The semiconductor then interrupts the electrical power supply, with a cut-off voltage higher than the cut-off voltage of the electromechanical protection element, for example twice as high. This higher cut-off voltage makes it possible to interrupt the power supply to the control-command units 30 more quickly.

[0114] Thanks to the combined use of an electromechanical protection element, a semiconductor and a short-circuit detection element, this cut-off takes place in a time of less than 500 ps after detection of the short circuit, in particular because the semiconductor allows rapid cut-off of the power supply. This rapid cut-off makes it possible to limit the damage caused by the electrical fault. In particular, when the electrical fault is a short circuit, the thermal energy generated by this short circuit is minimized, which makes it possible to minimize heating of the control-command units 30.

[0115] Furthermore, once the power supply to the control-command units has been interrupted, the semiconductor of the protection device 60 is able to detect the source of the electrical fault, i.e. to which control-command unit 30 the faulty electrical load 14 is connected, and then to isolate this control-command unit to restore the power supply to the control-command units connected to the non-faulty electrical loads. In other words, after interruption of the power supply to all of the control-command units, the protection device 60 only keeps the power supply to the faulty electrical load interrupted, which is particularly advantageous for limiting the interruption of the operation of the other electrical loads connected to the control-command units of the functional module 28.The protection device 60 is therefore able to be in a partially open state, or partially closed, that is to say open for certain control-command units 30 and closed for other control-command units of the functional module 28. Advantageously, the time separating the initial switch to the open state, linked to the detection of a fault on an electrical load, and the switch to the partially closed state restoring the power supply to the other electrical loads connected to the same functional module, is sufficiently short, of the order of 100 ms, so that the operation of the other electrical loads is not interrupted.

[0116] The protection device 60 further comprises a mechanical switch 66 disposed on a front face 68 of the protection device. The mechanical switch 66 is intended to be actuated by a user, and allows the protection device 60 to be switched between its open and closed states.

[0117] The functional module 28 comprises a support structure 70, partially visible in Figure 6. Here, the support structure 70 comprises a bottom 72 and a side wall 74, and, preferably, a bottom plate and a top plate, which are horizontal and not shown in the figures. When the functional module 28 is assembled, the protection device 60 is fixed to the support structure 70, and in particular to the bottom 72, and the side wall 74 of the support structure 70 is parallel to the side wall 61 of the protection device.

[0118] Advantageously, the bottom 72 has a width L72 equal to the width L26 of the functional zones 26. Thus, the support structure 70 is adapted to be received in the functional zones.

[0119] Advantageously, openings 75 are provided in the bottom 72. When the control-command units 30 are mounted in the functional module 28, the ventilation orifice 48 of the rear base 42 of each control-command unit 30 is opposite an opening 75, thus allowing ventilation of the interior of the control-command units.

[0120] The functional module 28 also comprises rails 76A and 76B, preferably six rails 76A and six rails 76B, which extend along the transverse axis Y. The rails 76A are arranged on the side wall 61 of the protection device 60 and the rails 76B are arranged on the side wall 74 of the support structure 70, so that a rail 76B is arranged opposite each rail 76A. The rails 76A and 76B thus form pairs of rails, in the example six pairs of rails.

[0121] In Figure 5, the upper rail 76A and the lower rail 76A are shown in exploded view, that is, these rails are disassembled from the side wall 61. Similarly, in Figure 6, the upper rail 76B and the lower rail 76B are shown in exploded view.

[0122] The rails 76A and 76B allow the control-command units 30 to be mounted in the functional module 28, and advantageously allow, when the control-command units are drawers, their movement in the functional module between their operating, test and disconnected positions. Advantageously, the functional module 28 comprises a computer bus section 80, which extends vertically. This computer module section is partially visible in FIG. 2. A comparable computer module section 80 is better visible in FIG. 7, which represents another functional module described below.

[0123] When the electrical cabinet 10 is assembled, the computer bus sections 80 of all the functional modules of a connection column are connected to each other, and the computer bus section of the highest functional module is further connected to the communication module 22 of this connection column, thus enabling the exchange of data between each functional module and the communication module. In other words, a functional module is connected to the communication module of its connection column via the computer bus section of this functional module.

[0124] Furthermore, preferably, the computer bus sections 80 of a connection column also make it possible to supply the functional modules of this connection column with an auxiliary electrical voltage delivered by the communication module 22 of this connection column. This auxiliary electrical voltage is for example a voltage of 12V, 24V, 48V, 110V or 230V, in direct current or in alternating current. This auxiliary electrical voltage allows the operation of the functional module 28, for example by supplying the electronic card 58 or the locking system 54 of each control-command unit 30.

[0125] In practice, the auxiliary electrical voltage is supplied to the functional module 28 and to its control-command units 30 regardless of the state of the protection device 60, i.e. whether the protection device is in the open or closed state. Thus, even in the event of a cut-off of the electrical supply to the control-command units 30 and therefore to the electrical loads 14 by the protection device, the operation of the control-command units, for example of the electronic card 58 or of the locking system 54, is ensured.

[0126] Advantageously, the functional module 28 comprises input-output modules 82, in practice as many input-output modules as there are control-command units 30, that is to say, in the example, four input-output modules. In practice, each input-output module 82 is associated with a control-command unit 30.

[0127] Each input-output module 82 comprises a connection interface, not visible in the figures. When the control-command unit associated with the input-output module is mounted in the functional module 28, the connection interface is connected to the movable lateral contact 50 of the control-command unit. Each input-output module 82 also comprises a connector, not visible in the figures, which is connected to the computer bus section 80 when the functional module 28 is assembled.

[0128] Thus, the input-output module associated with a control-command unit 30 makes it possible to connect the control-command unit to the computer bus section, via the communication interface and the connector. This connection allows the exchange of data between the control-command unit and the communication module, and / or the supply to the control-command unit of the auxiliary electrical voltage delivered by the communication module.

[0129] Advantageously, each control-command unit 30 also comprises a first wireless communication card, not shown, which communicates with a second wireless communication card, also not shown, belonging to the input-output module 82 associated with this control-command unit when the control-command unit is mounted in the functional module 28. The first and second wireless communication cards allow the exchange of data between the control-command unit and the input-output module. When such wireless communication cards are used, the movable lateral contact 50 is preferably used only for supplying the control-command unit with the auxiliary electrical voltage delivered by the communication module.

[0130] Each input-output module 82 also comprises connection terminals, not shown, for the functional module 28. Comparable connection terminals are visible in FIG. 7, with the reference 84, for the second functional module. The connection terminals make it possible to connect the input-output module 82 associated with a control-command unit 30 to the electrical load 14 connected to this control-command unit. In practice, the connection terminals are provided to deliver to the electrical load 14 the auxiliary electrical voltage supplied by the communication module 22, this auxiliary electrical voltage making it possible, for example, to supply additional functions of the electrical load, such as operating sensors.The connection terminals are also provided to allow the exchange of data between, on the one hand, the electrical load 14 and, on the other hand, the computer bus section 80 and the control-command unit 30, this data being able, for example, to be signals coming from operating sensors or an emergency stop signal.

[0131] Preferably, the input-output modules 82 extend partially outside the functional zone 26 in which the functional module 28 is installed, so as to facilitate the connection of electrical cables to the connection terminal blocks inside the connection column 10C. Advantageously, the functional module 28 comprises connection modules 86, in practice as many connection modules as there are control-command units 30, that is to say, in the example, four connection modules. In practice, each connection module 86 is associated with a control-command unit 30.

[0132] Each connection module 86 is connected, on the one hand, to the control-command unit 30 associated with it, and, on the other hand, to the electrical load 14 associated with the control-command unit. In other words, each connection module 86 makes it possible to connect, and power, an electrical load 14 to a control-command unit 30.

[0133] Each connection module 86 comprises electrical connectors 88, in the example four electrical connectors 88. These electrical connectors are complementary to the electrical output connectors 46 of the control-command units 30. Thus, the electrical connectors 88 of a connection module 86 are designed to be connected to the electrical output connectors 46 of the control-command unit 30 associated with this connection module, thus allowing the electrical connection between the connection module and the control-command unit.

[0134] Each connection module 86 comprises internal conductors, not visible in the figures, which connect the electrical connectors 88 to electrical cables 89, these electrical cables making it possible in practice to connect the connection module to an electrical load 14. In practice, the dimensioning of these internal conductors depends on the electrical power consumed by the electrical load 14, and therefore on the dimensions of the control-command unit 30 to which the electrical load is connected. Thus, the dimensioning of a connection module 86 is adapted to the height of the associated control-command unit 30. In the example, each connection module 86 of the functional module 28 is chosen from three connection modules of different dimensions, the heights of which are 1 U, 2U or 3U.

[0135] Preferably, the connection modules 86 extend partially outside the functional area 26 in which the functional module 28 is installed, so as to facilitate the connection of the electrical cables 89 inside the connection column 10C.

[0136] The power supply of an electrical load 14 is therefore carried out via the circuit breaker 16, the busbar 18, the protection device 60, a control unit 30, then the connection module 86 associated with this control unit.

[0137] A second functional module, denoted 90, is shown in Figure 7. This functional module 90 also belongs to the connecting column 10C. It is arranged in the functional zone 26 located at the bottom of the connecting column 10C, under the two other functional zones of the connecting column.

[0138] The functional module 90 differs from the functional module 28 described above in that it comprises two control-command units 30, instead of four control-command units. Among these two units, there is a control-command unit 30B of height 2U, and a control-command unit 30C of height H30C equal to 4U.

[0139] Consequently, the functional module 90 comprises two input-output modules 82, each associated with one of the two control-command units, and two connection modules 86, each associated with one of the two control-command units.

[0140] The protection device 60, the support structure 70, the computer bus section 80, the input-output modules 82 and the connection modules 86 of the functional module 90 operate in the same way as the same elements of the functional module 28.

[0141] Another functional module, denoted 100, is partially shown in Figure 8. This functional module 100 also belongs to the connecting column 10C. In the example, it is arranged between the functional modules 28 and 90, that is to say in the intermediate functional zone of the column.

[0142] The functional module 100 comprises several control-command units 130, only one of which is shown in FIG. 8. This unit is also shown alone in FIGS. 9 and 10.

[0143] Like the control-command units 30, the control-command unit 130 is here a control-command drawer, which is movable in the functional module 100 between an operating position, a test position and a disconnected position. In Figure 8, the control-command unit 10 is shown in the operating position.

[0144] The control-command unit 130 has the same function as the control-command units 30 of the functional modules 28 and 90, namely allowing the electrical connection of an electrical load 14 to the electrical cabinet 10, thus the control and / or monitoring of this electrical load.

[0145] Thus, the control-command unit 130 comprises a front part 132, a rear part 134, side walls 136, a bottom 138 and a cover not shown, in a manner similar to the control-command units 30.

[0146] In practice, the side walls 136 are identical to the side walls 36 of the control-command units 30. In particular, the control-command unit 130 comprises a movable lateral contact, a position detector and a locking system, not shown in the figures, identical to those of the control-command units 30. The control-command unit 130 also comprises a controlled switch 156 and an electronic analysis device 158, which operate like the controlled switch 56 and the electronic analysis device 58.

[0147] In the example, the height H130 of each control-command unit 130 is equal to 1 U, that is to say equal to the height H30A of the control-command units 30A. In practice, the height of the control-command units 130 is adapted to the dimensions of the controlled switch 156 and can occupy a height of 1 U, 2U, 3U, 4U, 5U or 6U.

[0148] To ensure the electrical protection of the control unit 130, in particular in the event of failure of the electrical load 14 connected to it, such as for example a short circuit, the control unit 130 also incorporates a protection device 160.

[0149] The protection device 160 is internal to, that is to say integrated into, the control-command unit 130. The control-command units 130 are identical. Thus, within the functional module 100, all the control-command units 130 carry a protection device 160. In other words, unlike the protection device 60 which protects in a shared manner all the control-command units 30 of a functional module 28 or 90, in the functional module 100, each control-command unit 130 has its own dedicated electrical protection, in the form of a protection device 160. Thus, each control-command unit 130 of the functional module 100 is independent.

[0150] The protection device 160 is provided to switch between an open state, in which the controlled switch 156 is not supplied with electrical energy, and a closed state, in which the controlled switch is supplied with electrical energy. Thus, the protection device 160 is connected to the input of the controlled switch 156.

[0151] The protection device 160 is of the magnetic type, that is to say that the protection device 160 is a magnetic protection device comprising mechanical parts configured to cut off the power supply to the controlled switch 156 of the control-command unit 130 in the event of a short circuit occurring at the level of the electrical load connected to the control-command unit. These mechanical parts are, for example, an electromechanical cut-off device, such as an electromechanical relay comprising an electromagnet provided with a movable part mechanically linked with a switch making it possible to cut off the power supply to the controlled switch 156.In practice, the current is cut off by a magnetic type protection device in a time greater than 5 ms after detection of the short circuit, that is to say that the cut-off time of a magnetic type protection device is, at best, ten times longer than the cut-off time of a hybrid type protection device. It is then understood that the functional module 100 does not include a protection device separate from the control-command units 130.

[0152] To accommodate the presence of the protection device 160, a main width of the control-command unit 130, denoted L130 and measured along the X axis between the two side walls 136, is strictly greater than the main width L30 of the control-command units 30. Indeed, since the control-command unit 130 comprises the same elements as the control-command units 30, and also integrates the protection device 160, its dimensions must be greater so that sufficient space for the installation of the protection device 160 is available inside the control-command unit 130. Thus, the front part 132 is longer than the front part 32 and the rear part 134 is also longer than the rear part 34.In practice, the front 132 and rear 134 parts can be elongated, in comparison with the front 32 and rear 34 parts, because the space occupied by the protection device 60 in the functional modules 28 and 90 is freed up in the functional module 100, and therefore available for the control-command units 130, the protection device 160 being integrated in the control-command unit 130.

[0153] In practice, the control-command unit 130 comprises, at its rear part 134, a rear base 142, which is identical to the rear base 42 of the control-command units 30. Thus, the rear base 142 carries electrical input connectors 144, electrical output connectors 146 and, preferably, a ventilation orifice 148, which function like the electrical connectors 44 and 46 and the ventilation orifice 48.

[0154] In the control unit 130, the input electrical connectors 144 are connected to the protection device input 160 and the output electrical connectors 146 are connected to the output of the controlled switch 156.

[0155] Advantageously, the control-command unit 130 also comprises, at its rear part 134, a widening part 102, which is arranged on one side of the rear base 134, along the longitudinal axis X. The widening part 102 is provided so that the sum of a width L102 of this part and a width L142 of the rear base is equal to the width L130 of the control-command unit.

[0156] In a variant of the invention that is not shown, the control-command unit 130 does not comprise a widening part 102 and the rear base 142 is not identical to the rear base 42, its width L142 being increased relative to that of the rear base 42, so as to be equal to the width L130. At its front part 132, the control-command unit 130 also comprises a mechanical switch 166, intended to be actuated by a user, and making it possible to switch the protection device 160 between its open and closed states.

[0157] The functional module 100 further comprises a support structure 170. This support structure comprises a bottom 172 and a first side wall 174, which are identical to the bottom 72 and the side wall 74 of the support structure 70, and further comprises a second side wall 104, which extends parallel to the first side wall 174. In particular, a width L172 of the bottom 172 is equal to the width L72 of the bottom 72.

[0158] The functional module 100 also comprises first rails and second rails, preferably six first rails and six second rails, which extend along the transverse axis Y and which are not shown in FIG. 8. The first rails are similar to the rails 76A of the functional module 28 and the second rails are similar to the rails 76B of the functional module 28. The first rails are arranged on the second side wall 104 of the support structure 170 and the second rails are arranged on the first side wall 174 of the support structure 170, such that a second rail is arranged opposite each first rail. The first and second rails thus form pairs of rails, in the example six pairs of rails, and allow the mounting and movement of the control-command unit 130 in the functional module 100.

[0159] It is thus understood that, in comparison with the functional modules 28 and 90, the functional module 100 is adapted to compensate for the absence of the protection device 60, the control-command units 130 being widened and the support structure 170 being completed with the second side wall 104 so as to be able to arrange the first rails there.

[0160] Furthermore, the support structure 170 carries electrical connectors 162, which are intended to be connected to the input electrical connectors 144 of the control unit 130. In practice, the support structure 170 carries several groups of electrical connectors 162, in the example six groups, so that each group allows connection to the input electrical connectors of a control unit. The electrical connectors 162 are further connected to the busbar 18 of the electrical cabinet 10, by means not shown, such as for example by electrical cables, conductive bars or suitable connectors.

[0161] Thus, the protection device 160 is supplied with electrical energy by the busbar 18 via the electrical connectors 162.

[0162] The functional module 100 also comprises a computer bus section and as many input-output modules and connection modules as there are control-command units 130, which are not shown in FIG. 8 and which are identical to the computer bus section 80, the input-output modules 82 and the connection modules 86 of the functional modules 28 and 90.

[0163] Thus, between a functional module 100, on the one hand, and a functional module 28 or 90, on the other hand, only the presence or absence of a protection device 60, the control-command units and a part of the support structure of the functional module differ.

[0164] In practice, the dimensions of the functional module 100 are similar to the dimensions of the functional modules 28 and 90, so that each module can be placed in all the functional areas 26 of the connecting columns 10B and 10C, since all the functional areas have the same dimensions. In other words, the height of the functional module 100 is equal to H26 and the depth of the functional module 100 is equal to P26.

[0165] It is therefore possible to choose, within the electrical cabinet 10, how many functional modules comprise a shared protection device 60 for all the control-command units 30 of these functional modules, and how many functional modules comprise control-command units 130 each carrying their own protection device 160.

[0166] In the example shown, a connection column 10B, 10C comprises up to five functional zones 26, therefore up to five functional modules each able to accommodate between one and six control-command units 30 or 130, that is to say that a connection column comprises up to thirty control-command units 30 or 130, and therefore allows the connection of a maximum of thirty electrical loads 14. A connection column 10B, 10C is modular, that is to say that it is possible to install as many functional modules and control-command units as desired.

[0167] Alternatively, a connecting column 10B, 10C may have more than five functional areas and five functional modules, for example if the height of a functional area and a functional module is decreased or if the height of the connecting column is increased.

[0168] In the case of the functional modules 28 and 90, the control-command units 30 do not include magnetic protection and disconnection functions, which are provided by the protection device 60. These control-command units 30 then only include an element for controlling the electrical load 14, namely the controlled switch 56, and the analysis electronics, namely the electronic card 58. The control-command units 30 are thus also called “electronic units”. In the case of the functional module 100, the control-command units 130 also include the magnetic protection and disconnection functions, provided by the on-board protection device 160, and are thus also called “electromechanical units”, because the protection device 160 has a mechanical operation.

[0169] It is advantageous to be able to have 10 electronic units and electromechanical units in the same electrical cabinet, because the two types of units do not have the same advantages and disadvantages.

[0170] In particular, electronic units, combined with hybrid protection devices, have the advantage of being particularly efficient in ensuring the reliability of the operation of the electrical loads connected to them. Indeed, the very short cut-off time of hybrid protection devices eliminates the risks of damage to the electronic units, and in particular to their controlled switches, and to the electrical loads. However, hybrid protection devices are generally expensive. Thus, electronic units, combined with hybrid protection devices, are preferably used to power and protect electrical loads that are themselves expensive, or whose proper operation is critical, in order to reduce the risks of failure of the electrical load.Furthermore, it is particularly interesting to share the protection of a hybrid type protection device with several control-command units, in the example up to six units, so as to reduce the protection cost per unit.

[0171] Conversely, electromechanical units have the advantage of being inexpensive to manufacture, but the cut-off time of magnetic-type protection devices 160 means that these protection devices provide less protection than hybrid-type protection devices. Thus, electromechanical units are preferably used to power and protect inexpensive electrical loads or those whose proper operation is not critical.

[0172] Thanks to the modularity of the electrical cabinet 10, it is then simple to adapt the number of electromechanical units and the number of electronic units installed in the functional zones 26 according to the precise needs of the electrical installation in which the electrical cabinet is integrated, in particular the number and type of electrical loads 14.

[0173] Furthermore, the functional modules 28, 90, on the one hand, and the functional module 100, on the other hand, use a large number of identical parts in common, namely the bottom and the first side wall of the support structure, the computer bus section and the input-output and connection modules. This common use of identical parts is particularly advantageous for reducing the manufacturing cost of the functional modules, and therefore of the electrical cabinet 10.

[0174] Similarly, the control-command units 30 and the control-command units 130 also use a large number of identical parts, namely their rear base, their side walls, the various systems carried by their side walls, such as the movable side contact, the position detector and the locking system, and, preferably, their electronic card and their controlled switch. This use of identical parts is particularly advantageous for reducing the manufacturing cost of the control-command units, and therefore of the electrical cabinet 10.

[0175] In a variant of the invention not shown, the functional modules 28, 90 and / or 100 do not include a connection module. In such a variant, the connection of the electrical loads 14 to the control-command units 30, 130 is carried out directly at the level of the control-command units, for example using electrical cables.

[0176] In a variant of the invention that is not shown, the functional modules 28, 90 and / or 100 do not include an input-output module or a computer bus section. In such a variant, the connection between, on the one hand, the control-command units 30, 130, and, on the other hand, the communication module 22 and the electrical loads 14, for the exchange of data and / or the supply of the auxiliary electrical voltage, is carried out directly using electrical cables, at the level of the control-command units.

[0177] In a variant of the invention that is not shown, the functional modules 28, 90 and / or 100 do not comprise a support structure 70, 170, and the other elements of the functional modules, such as for example the rails, the hybrid type protection devices, the computer bus section and the input-output and connection modules, are then directly fixed to a frame of the electrical cabinet 10.

[0178] In a variant of the invention not shown, the electrical cabinet 10 does not include functional modules, and the electronic units associated with the hybrid type protection devices or the electromechanical units are directly mounted in the functional zones 26, each functional zone receiving either electronic units or electromechanical units.

[0179] Any feature described for one embodiment or variation in the foregoing may be implemented for the other embodiments and variations described above, as long as technically feasible.

Claims

DEMANDS 1. Electrical connection cabinet (10), the electrical cabinet being configured to supply and control at least two electrical loads (14), characterized in that: the electrical cabinet (10) comprises several control units (30, 130), selected from: o electromechanical units (130), each electromechanical unit being configured to supply and control an electrical load (14) and comprising an electronic analysis device (158), a controlled switch (156) configured to allow or interrupt the supply of the electrical load, and a magnetic protection device (160) configured to protect the electromechanical unit and the electrical load against electrical faults, and o electronic units (30), each electronic unit being configured to supply and control an electrical load (14),comprising an electronic analysis device (58) and a controlled switch (56) configured to enable or interrupt the supply of the electrical load and being devoid of a magnetic-type protection device, the electrical cabinet (10) comprises at least two functional zones (26), among which: o a first functional zone accommodates at least one electromechanical unit (130), and o a second functional zone accommodates at least two electronic units (30) and a common protection device (60) configured to protect all the electronic units (30) of the second functional zone and the electrical loads connected thereto against electrical faults, the common protection device being separate from the electronic units, - the first functional zone is further adapted to accommodate at least two electronic units and a common protection device, and - the second functional zone is also adapted to receive at least one electromechanical unit.

2. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to claim 1, wherein a width (L130) of each electromechanical unit (130) is strictly greater than a width (L30) of each electronic unit (30), the widths (L130, L30) being measured between two side walls (36, 136) of the control units (30, 130), and wherein, in the second functional zone, the common protection device (60) extends over the entire height (H26) of the second functional zone and is arranged on one side of the electronic units (30), along a longitudinal axis (X) of the electrical cabinet (10).

3. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to claim 2, in which: - each control unit (30, 130) includes a backplate (42, 142), which carries electrical input connectors (44, 144), configured to supply electrical power to the control unit when the control unit is mounted in the electrical cabinet (10), and electrical output connectors (46, 146), configured to supply electrical power to the electrical load (14) connected to the control unit when the control unit is mounted in the electrical cabinet, - the rear base (142) of the electromechanical units (130) is identical to the rear base (42) of the electronic units (30), - a width (L42, L142) of the rear base (42, 142) is identical to the width (L30) of the electronic units (30), and - preferably, each electromechanical unit (130) further includes an extension piece (102), disposed on one side of the rear base (142) of the electromechanical unit, so that the sum of the width (L142) of the rear base and a width (L102) of the extension piece is equal to the width (L130) of the electromechanical units (130).

4. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, in which each control unit (30, 130) is a control drawer, movable in the first or second functional zone (26) between three main positions: an operating position of the control drawer, in which the control drawer is configured to be connected to the electrical load (14) and in which the control drawer is connected to a communication module (22) of the electrical cabinet (10), - a test position of the control drawer, in which the control drawer is configured not to be connected to the electrical load and in which the control drawer is connected to the communication module, and - a disconnected position of the control drawer, in which the control drawer is configured not to be connected to the electrical load and in which the control drawer is not connected to the communication module.

5. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to claim 4, in which each control drawer (30, 130) comprises a side wall (36) carrying a movable side contact (50) configured to allow data exchange between the control drawer and the communication module (22), the movable side contact being fixed relative to the communication module when the control drawer is moved between its operating position and its test position, and in which the side wall and the movable side contact of the electromechanical units (130), on the one hand, and of the electronic units (30), on the other hand, are identical.

6. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 4 and 5, wherein each control drawer (30, 130) comprises a position detector (52), configured to detect whether the control drawer is in the operating position, in the test position or in the disconnected position, and a locking system (54), configured to lock the control drawer in the operating position or in the test position, and wherein the position detector and the locking mechanism of the electromechanical units (130), on the one hand, and of the electronic units (30), on the other hand, are identical.

7. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the magnetic type protection device (160) of each electromechanical unit (130) comprises an electromechanical relay, configured to cut off the power supply to the controlled switch (156) of the electromechanical unit in the event of a short circuit occurring at the electrical load (14) connected to the electromechanical unit, such cutting off occurring in a time greater than 5 ms.

8. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the common protection device (60) of the second functional zone (26) is of hybrid type and comprises: - a semiconductor, configured to detect a short circuit occurring at the level of an electrical load (14) connected to one of the electronic units (30) of the second functional zone, or at the level of one of the electronic units, and an electromechanical protection element, configured to cut off the power supply to the electronic units of the second functional zone, this cut-off taking place in less than 500 ps after detection of the short circuit.

9. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein a front part (132) of each electromechanical unit (130) has a mechanical switch (166) controlling the switching between an open state and a closed state of the magnetic type protection device (160) of the electromechanical unit, configured to be operated by a user, and wherein a front face (68) of the common protection device (60) has a mechanical switch (66) controlling the switching between an open state and a closed state of the common protection device, configured to be operated by a user.

10. Electrical connection cabinet (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the electrical cabinet (10) comprises at least two functional modules (28, 90, 100), each functional module comprising: - either at least one electromechanical unit (130), or at least two electronic units (30), - if the functional module includes electronic units (30), a common protection device (60), - a computer bus segment (80), connected to all the control units of the functional module, as many connection modules (86) as there are control units, each connection module being configured to connect an electrical load (14) to a control unit, as many input / output modules (82) as there are control units, each input / output module being configured to connect the computer bus segment to a control unit and to the electrical load connected to that control unit and to allow the exchange of operating data between said electrical load, on the one hand, and said control unit and the computer bus segment, on the other hand, and - a support structure (70, 170), on which each control unit, the computer bus section, each connection module, each input / output module and, where applicable, the common protection device are fixed, in which each functional area (26) accommodates a functional module, in which the computer bus sections of all the functional modules are connected to each other and to a communication module (22) of the electrical cabinet (10), and in which the computer bus section, the connection modules and the input / output modules of the functional modules (100) comprising one or more electromechanical units (130), on the one hand, and of the functional modules (28, 90) comprising one or more electronic units (30), on the other hand, are identical.