Measurement system for electrical installations

Abstract

Electrical installation measurement system. A measurement system for electrical installations (100) is described comprising a measuring and control device (101) configured for installation on an electrical panel (104) of an electrical installation (103) and performing at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation (103), depending on the electrical load connected to the electrical installation, and transmitting command signals (smc) along a telecommunications link. The system further comprises a variable load device (102) connectable to the electrical installation (103), configured to: receive the aforementioned command signals (scm) from the telecommunications link; and assume a series of load configurations according to the aforementioned command signals (scm).

Description

1 / 28 MEASUREMENT SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[001] The present invention relates to devices for measuring electrical parameters of electrical installations. BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[002] In low-voltage electrical installations, electricians measure electrical parameters using measuring devices (e.g., network analyzers) that can be connected alternately to different points in the electrical installation. The measurements taken may be for the purpose of testing electrical installations to verify their compliance with specific regulations.

[003] WO 2018 / 009932 describes an electrical network that includes a monitoring device, one or more electrical devices, a network manager, and a diagnostic device. The diagnostic device may receive power to perform test operations via a power source. The diagnostic device may create (using, for example, transformers, inverters, converters, and diode bridges) a level and type of energy (referred to herein as test signals) that are used to test one or more electrical devices using the monitoring device.

[004] US Document 2019 / 0261067 describes a system for providing information about electrical devices in homes, which includes a power metering device, an electrical device identification component, and a notification component. The power metering device measures the electrical power characteristics on one or more power lines in Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 4 / 46 2 / 28 residence. Based on the energy consumption of specific electrical devices, the notification component determines events or conditions associated with specific electrical devices (e.g., abnormal use, device failures, and excessive energy consumption). Notifications relating to at least one of the events or conditions associated with the specific electrical devices are provided to the person associated with the residence (e.g., the homeowner or another resident). BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[005] The Applicant noted that the measurement of electrical installation systems currently employed by electricians requires complex and time-consuming testing procedures.

[006] An electrical installation measurement system that makes testing procedures easier and faster than those that can be performed with traditional measuring devices would satisfy a need felt by professional operators.

[007] The Applicant has found that employing an electrical parameter measuring device that also controls an electrically connectable variable load device at different points in the electrical installation, considering a range of load configurations, allows for a reduction in the complexity and time of test procedures, compared with traditional techniques.

[008] According to the first aspect, the present invention relates to a system for measuring electrical installations, comprising: - a measuring and control device designed Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 5 / 46 3 / 28 for installation on an electrical panel (104) of an electrical installation and configured to: perform at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation, depending on the electrical load connected to the electrical installation; and transmit command signals along a telecommunications link; and - a variable load device connectable to the electrical installation and configured to: receive the aforementioned command signals from the telecommunications link; and assume a series of load configurations according to the aforementioned command signals.

[009] In one embodiment, the aforementioned variable load device is portable and configured for electrical connection to the electrical installation to operate as an electrical load of the electrical installation.

[0010] In one embodiment, the variable load device comprises an electrical plug to be connected to a socket of the aforementioned electrical installation.

[0011] In one embodiment, the measuring and control device comprises: - a measurement module configured to perform at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation; - first wireless communication module configured to transmit the aforementioned command signals; and - a processing and control device configured to manage the operation of the measurement module and the first wireless communication module.

[0012] In one embodiment, the charging device Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 6 / 46 4 / 28 variable includes: - a variable impedance module comprising at least one impedance, configured to assume a series of values ​​according to the aforementioned series of load configurations; - second wireless communication module configured to receive the aforementioned command signals from the first wireless communication module; and - a control device connected to the aforementioned second wireless communication module and configured to manage the operation of the variable impedance module according to the command signals.

[0013] In one embodiment, the aforementioned at least one impedance is a variable impedance configured to assume a series of selectable impedance values ​​according to the adjustment signals produced by the control device, depending on the aforementioned command signals.

[0014] In one embodiment, at least one impedance includes at least one electrical device selected from the group: variable resistive load, variable inductive load, variable capacitive load, and a variable differential current generator circuit.

[0015] In one embodiment, the variable load device comprises: - at least one output terminal that can be removablely connected to the electrical installation; - at least one switching device configured to connect / disconnect the aforementioned at least one impedance to / from the aforementioned at least one output terminal according to switching signals provided by Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 7 / 46 5 / 28 mentioned control device in accordance with the mentioned control signals.

[0016] In one embodiment, the measuring and control device is configured to perform a measurement procedure by means of: - transmission of a procedural command signal to cause the variable load device, when connected to the electrical installation, to assume the procedural load configuration; and - carrying out the aforementioned at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation, depending on the aforementioned procedural load configuration assumed by the variable load device to provide at least one measured value.

[0017] In one embodiment, the aforementioned measuring and control device is additionally configured to process the aforementioned at least one measured value to produce at least one computed electrical parameter.

[0018] In one embodiment, the measuring and control device comprises: a first voltage meter to be connected between a phase conductor and an earth conductor of the electrical installation; a second voltage meter to be connected between the phase conductor and the neutral conductor of the electrical installation; a first current meter to be connected to the phase conductor; and a second current meter to be connected to the neutral conductor.

[0019] In one embodiment, the system is configured to perform, in accordance with the aforementioned measurement procedure, at least one selected measurement at Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 8 / 46 6 / 28 from the group: ground circuit impedance; voltage drop measurement across a part of the electrical installation; short-circuit current estimation; testing the behavior of a thermomagnetic switch; estimation of the opening current of a differential switch; and estimation of the opening time of a differential switch.

[0020] In one embodiment, the system further comprises: at least one computer device external to the measuring and control device and configured to exchange data with said measuring and control device and to store electrical parameter values; and at least one client device configured to exchange data / information with said measuring and control device and to have access to said stored values ​​by a user of said at least one client device.

[0021] In one embodiment, each of the measuring and control device and the aforementioned variable load device comprises: a corresponding housing and a corresponding electrical power supply module.

[0022] In one embodiment, the system is configured to operate in an electrical installation of a type selected from: single-phase electrical installation and three-phase electrical installation. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0023] Additional features and advantages will become more apparent from the following description of the various embodiments provided as examples with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 schematically shows an example. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 9 / 46 7 / 28 of electrical installation metering system; Figure 2 shows, as an example, a measuring and control device and a variable load device from the electrical installation measuring system of Figure 1; Figure 3 shows an embodiment of the measuring and control device of Figure 2; Figure 4 shows an embodiment of the variable device from Figure 2; Figure 5 illustrates a working configuration assumed by the electrical installation measurement system to perform the measurement of an electrical parameter; and Figure 6 illustrates an additional working configuration assumed by the electrical installation measurement system to perform the measurement of another electrical parameter. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION Figures 1 and 2 illustrate an example of an electrical installation measurement system 100 comprising a measurement and control device 101 and a variable load device 102. As shown in Figure 1, the system 100 may additionally include at least one computer device 200 (SRV) configured to provide functionality for the measurement and control device 101 and for at least one customer device, such as a technical device 300 (T-MB) and a user device 301 (U-MB).

[0025] In particular, computer device 200 is configured to operate as a server computer for control measurement device 101, user device 301 and / or technical device 300. By way of example, computer device 200 may be Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 10 / 46 8 / 28 part of a cloud computing architecture. Each of the technical devices 300 and user devices 301 could be, for example, a mobile phone (such as a smartphone), a laptop, and a personal computer.

[0026] The electrical installation measurement system 100 is configured to perform electrical measurements of parameters of electrical installations (also known as “electrical wiring”) 103, such as domestic wiring for low voltage applications.

[0027] Electrical installation 103 is, for example, a single-phase electrical system comprising a phase conductor PC, a neutral conductor NC and an earth conductor GC, connected to an earthing system (not shown). As an example, electrical installation 103 is structured to operate under voltage within the range of 100 to 400 V, with a frequency within the range of 50 to 60 Hz.

[0028] According to the example in Figure 1 and Figure 2, the electrical installation 103 also comprises an energy supply meter 105 (EPM) connected to an electrical panel 104 comprising at least one electrical circuit protection device 106. As shown in Figure 2, the electrical circuit protection device 106 may be a device selected from the group comprising: circuit breaker 107 (CB), miniature circuit breaker 108 (MCB), residual current circuit breaker (RCB, not shown) and residual current circuit breaker with overload protection 109 (RCBO). As an example, the residual current circuit breaker with overload protection 109 includes a residual current circuit breaker and a thermomagnetic switch. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 11 / 46 9 / 28

[0029] In addition, electrical installation 103 comprises junction boxes (not shown) that allow the division of the phase conductor PC, neutral conductor NC and earth conductor GC into a series of subsidiary circuits SC1-SCN. The junction boxes may be part of electrical panel 104 and / or external to electrical panel 104.

[0030] In particular, subsidiary circuits SC1-SCN can be connected to permanently installed electrical loads 110, such as lighting devices, controlled by electrical switches 111 or to sockets 112 for connection to portable electrical loads (such as portable appliances, telephones and controls for ventilation or heating systems).

[0031] The measuring and control device 101 can be configured for installation in the electrical panel 104, for example, the measuring and control device 101 is electrically connected between the energy supply meter 105 and the electrical circuit protection devices 106 of the electrical panel 104 (Figure 1). The measuring and control device 101 is configured to transmit SMC command signals (Figure 1) to the variable load device 102 and perform at least one electrical parameter measurement of the electrical installation 103.

[0032] The variable load device 102 can be connected to the electrical installation 103. For example, the variable load device 102 can be connected to any of the electrical sockets 112 or to other points of the electrical installation 103 by means of connection terminals other than socket 112. The variable load device 102 and the measuring and control device 101 can communicate by Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 12 / 46 10 / 28 a telecommunications link. Furthermore, the variable load device 102 is configured to receive, via the aforementioned telecommunications link, the SMC command signals transmitted by the measurement and control device 101 and to assume a series of load configurations in accordance with the aforementioned command signals.

[0033] Figure 3 schematically shows an example of the electrical measurement and control device 101 comprising a processing and control device 113 (CONTR-PROC) and a measurement module 114.

[0034] The processing and control device 113 may be, for example, a microprocessor or microcontroller and comprises one or more control processing units (CPUs) and memories, including at least one programmable memory M. A memory of the processing and control device 113 stores software containing instructions configured to manage the operation of the measurement and control device 101.

[0035] According to the example, the measuring module 114 comprises first measuring device 115 and second measuring device 116. The first measuring device 115 is configured to perform measurements of electrical parameters relating to the phase conductor PC and the earth conductor GC, such as phase-to-earth voltage and phase current. In the present example, the first measuring device 115 is equipped with first current meter 117 connected to the phase conductor PC and first voltage meter 118 connected between the phase conductor PC and the earth conductor GC.

[0036] According to an example, the second device Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 13 / 46 Measuring device 116 is configured to perform measurements of electrical parameters relating to the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor NC, such as phase-to-neutral voltage and neutral current. In this embodiment, the second measuring device 116 is equipped with a second current meter 119 connected to the neutral conductor NC and a second voltage meter 120 connected between the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor NC.

[0037] In addition, the measuring module 114 may comprise first isolator 121 (ISL) configured to electrically isolate the first measuring device 115 from the processing and control device 113. The measuring module 114 may comprise second isolator 122 (ISL) configured to electrically isolate the second measuring device 116 from the processing and control device 113. The first 121 and second 122 isolators may be, for example, known galvanic isolators or known optoisolators.

[0038] In particular, the measuring and control device 101 is equipped with a first power supply device 125. The measuring module 114 may also comprise a third isolator 123 (ISL) and a fourth isolator 124 (ISL), analogous to the first isolator 121 described above. The third isolator 123 is configured to electrically isolate the first measuring device 115 from a power supply device 125, and the fourth isolator 124 is configured to electrically isolate the second measuring device 116 from the first power supply device 125.

[0039] It is observed that the first device of Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 14 / 46 12 / 28 measurement 115 and, similarly, the second measuring device 116 may be commercially available energy meters implemented by an integrated circuit. As an example, the ADE9153A energy meter produced by Analog Devices Inc. (USA) may be used. In this example, the first (second) measuring device 115 (116) is equipped with at least one analog-to-digital converter and a digital signal processing device configured to measure a series of electrical quantities. Preferably, the first and second measuring devices 115 and 116 may include a temperature sensor and a timer.

[0040] The measuring and control device 101 is equipped with a first communication device 126, such as a wireless communication device, configured to allow communication with the variable load device 102 and, in some embodiments, additional devices external to the measuring device 101. The first communication device 126 is configured to operate under the control of the processing and control device 113 and to exchange data with the control and processing device 113 itself.

[0041] In particular, the first communication device 126 includes the first wireless transceiver module 127 (COMM1) configured to communicate with the variable load device 102. As an example, the first wireless transceiver module 127 operates according to LoRa (Long Range) technology. As is known, LoRa is a low-power wide area network (LPWAN) technology based on spread spectrum modulation methods derived from Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 15 / 46 13 / 28 Chirp spread spectrum (CSS) technology.

[0042] The first communication device 126 may additionally include a second wireless transceiver module 128 (COMM2) configured to allow communication with the server computer 200 and the client device 300 (Figure 1). As an example, the second wireless transceiver module 128 may operate using WiFi technology, which allows access to an Internet system 400 to exchange data with the server computer 200 and the client device 300.

[0043] Conveniently, communication device 126 can be equipped with a third wireless transceiver module 129 (COMM3) configured to perform the functions of the second wireless transceiver module 127 in the event of a power supply failure. As an example, the third wireless transceiver module 129 can be structured to operate according to NB-IoT (Narrowband Internet of Things) technology. As is known to those skilled in the art, (NB-IoT) is a Low Power Wide Area Network (LPWAN) radio technology that focuses specifically on indoor coverage, low cost, long battery life, and high connection density.

[0044] The first power supply device 125 mentioned above is configured to supply electrical power to the devices / components of the measuring and control device 1 obtained through the electrical installation 103 or an optional rechargeable battery 130 (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). According to one example, the first power supply device 125 comprises a charger manager of Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 16 / 46 14 / 28 battery 131 and an alternating current to direct current converter 132 configured to convert alternating current supplied by the electrical installation into direct current 103.

[0045] The measuring and control device 101 is housed in a housing 134 which can be fixed to the electrical panel 104, allowing the electrical connections indicated above with the electrical installation 103.

[0046] According to an example, shown in Figure 4, the variable load device 102 comprises a control device 135 (CONTR-DV), a variable impedance module 136, a second communication module 137 and a second power supply module 138. In addition, the variable load device 102 is equipped with a plug 139 that can be inserted into a socket 112 of one of the subsidiary circuits SC1-SCN (for example, the second subsidiary circuit SC2) of the electrical installation 103.

[0047] The control device 135 may be, for example, a microprocessor or microcontroller and comprises one or more control processing units and memories, including at least one programmable memory. The control device 135, for example, is analogous to the processing and control device 113 of the measurement and control device 101. The control device 135 stores a software program configured to manage the operation of the variable impedance module 136 according to the SMC command signals received from the measurement and control device 101.

[0048] The 136 variable impedance module can assume a range of load configurations, depending on Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 17 / 46 15 / 28 control signal sent by the measuring and control device 101 and received by the second communication module 137. In particular, the variable impedance module 136 comprises at least one variable impedance that can assume a series of values.

[0049] Plug 139, to be inserted into socket 112, comprises first terminal 144, second terminal 145 and third terminal 146.

[0050] According to one example, the variable impedance module 136 comprises a first adjustable impedance device 140 and a second adjustable impedance device 141. The first adjustable impedance device 140 comprises at least one first variable impedance 142 and a first switch 143. The first variable impedance 142 comprises one terminal connected to the second terminal 145 of the plug 139 and another terminal connected to the first switch 143 which is also connected to the first terminal 144 of the plug 139. The first switch 143 is configured to be closed / open to connect / disconnect the first variable impedance 142 to / from the first terminal 144.

[0051] The second adjustable impedance device 141 comprises at least a second variable impedance 147 and a second switch 148. The second variable impedance 147 comprises one terminal connected to the third terminal 146 of the plug 139 and another terminal connected to the second switch 148 which is also connected to the first terminal 144 of the plug 139. The second switch 148 is configured to be closed / open to connect / disconnect the first variable impedance 142. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 18 / 46 16 / 28 to / from the first terminal 144.

[0052] The first switch 142 and the second switch 147 can assume an open or closed configuration according to the switching signals SW provided by the control device 135. Each of the first switch 142 and the second switch 147 can be a semiconductor device such as an IGBT (Insulated Gate Bipolar Transistor), TRIAC (Alternating Current Triode) or a thyristor.

[0053] The first variable impedance 142 and the second variable impedance 147 can assume a series of impedance values ​​according to the adjustment signals SA provided by the control device 135. Each of the first variable impedance 142 and the second variable impedance 147 can include a device selected from the group: variable resistive load, variable inductive load, variable capacitive load or one of their combinations.

[0054] As an example, when plug 139 is inserted into socket 112, the first adjustable impedance device 140 is electrically connected between the phase conductor PC and the earth conductor GC and the second adjustable impedance device 141 is electrically connected between the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor NC.

[0055] The second communication module 137 includes a wireless transceiver module configured to communicate with the first wireless transceiver module 127 of the measurement and control device 101. According to the example described, the second communication module 137 operates according to LoRa (Long Range) technology.

[0056] The second supply module of Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 19 / 46 17 / 28 power 138 is configured to supply electrical power to the components / modules of the variable load device 102 supplied by the electrical installation 103 or by an additional rechargeable battery 149. The second power module 138 may include an additional battery charger manager 150.

[0057] It is also noted that the variable load device 102 is housed in an additional housing 153 and may be a portable device.

[0058] The electrical installation measurement system 100 (hereinafter referred to as the “measurement system”) is configured to perform electrical measurements of electrical parameters of the electrical installation 103. In particular, the measurement system 100 is configured to assist electricians in performing the necessary checks during the testing of a new electrical installation or during its periodic checks or maintenance.

[0059] According to one possible embodiment, the measuring and control device 101 is firmly mounted next to the electrical panel 104, while the variable load device 102 is portable and operated by the electrician. The variable load device 102, for example, can be electrically connected to different sockets 112 of the electrical installation 103 or to specific points of the electrical installation 103 by means of another type of connection terminals, depending on the specific test to be performed. According to one example, the variable load device 102 can be connected to replace one of the electrical loads 110.

[0060] As an example, the technician who performs tests on electrical installation 103 uses the telephone. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 20 / 46 The technician's mobile phone 300, equipped with a corresponding mobile application (APP), communicates with the measuring and control device 101 and the server computer 200. The technician can communicate with the measuring and control device 101 to perform specific test procedures that can be selected from the mobile application APP. Communication between the measuring and control device 101 and the technician's mobile phone 300 is enabled, for example, by the second wireless transceiver module 128 (Figure 2). It is also noted that the measuring and control device 101 can store the measured electrical parameters on the server computer 200 and make them available for monitoring purposes.

[0061] With reference to electrical parameter measurements, the measuring and control device 101 and the variable load device 102 operate as “master device” and “slave device”, respectively. Specifically, the measuring system 100 allows for measurement procedures that involve collaboration between the measuring and control device 101 (“master”) and the variable load device 102 (“slave”).

[0062] It should also be noted that, although the following description of specific electrical parameter measurements is made considering the case of a connection of the variable load device 102 to a socket 112, an analogous description is valid for connections of the variable load device 102 made at connection points of the electrical installation 103 other than sockets 112.

[0063] An example of a measurement procedure is described below with reference to measuring the voltage drop AV across a part (which has electrical resistance). Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 21 / 46 19 / 28 unknown Rcc) of the electrical installation 103 comprised between the measuring and control device 101 and the socket 112 in which the variable load device 102 was connected. This example is also described with reference to Figure 5.

[0064] The technician informs the measurement and control device 101 of the requested measurement using the technician's mobile phone 300, which communicates, for example, with the second wireless transceiver module 128 (Figure 3) of the measurement and control device 101. The processing and control device 113, connected to the second wireless transceiver module 128, transmits a corresponding SCM command signal that is received in the second communication module 137, included in the variable load device 102 (Figure 4). The control device 135 of the variable load device 102 analyzes the SCM command signal to determine, for example, a software component associated with the specific electrical measurement. According to the aforementioned software component, the control device 135 generates an AS adjustment signal that sets a resistance value Rn for the second variable impedance 147. The resistance value Rn is also available through the measurement and control device 101.

[0065] Furthermore, the control device 135 generates a switching signal SW that causes the closing of the second switch 148; the second variable impedance 147, which has resistance Rn, is therefore connected between the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor NC. According to this example, the first variable impedance 142 is not connected to the electrical installation 103 because it is not involved in the specific measurement procedure. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 22 / 46 20 / 28

[0066] In the load configuration mentioned above, the measuring and control device 101 performs measurement of the electric current If flowing in the phase conductor PC and measurement of the voltage Vfn between the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor NC. In particular, the processing and control device 113 allows the first current meter 117 of the first measuring device 115 to measure the electric current If. Furthermore, the processing and control device 113 allows the second voltage meter 120 of the second measuring device 116 to measure the voltage Vfn.

[0067] Next, the processing and control device 113 obtains the measured values ​​If and Vfn and computes the voltage drop AV according to the equation: Δ7 = VFN-Ip-Rn

[0068] The computed voltage drop AV, which can be stored in the memory M of the processing and control device 113, can be transmitted to the server computer 200 from which it can be read by the technician's mobile phone 300.

[0069] At the end of the measurement, the measuring and control device 101 transmits another SCM command signal to the variable load device 102, in order to cause the opening of the second switch 148 and the disconnection of the second variable impedance 147 from the plug 139 and the electrical installation 103.

[0070] Note that there are possible additional measurements of electrical parameters that can be taken by the measuring and control device 101 based on corresponding load configurations assumed by Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 23 / 46 21 / 28 variable load device 102. Examples of these additional measures are described below herein.

[0071] In the first example, the measuring and control device 101 can estimate the short-circuit current using the load configuration described above with reference to Figure 5. In particular, the short-circuit resistance Rcc is computed by the equation:

[0072] MaxIcc is computed

[0073] Rcc = The current as: Estimated short-circuit current Δ7 Max lcc= ^FN Rcc As in the second example, the electrical installation measurement system 100 can be used to perform a test on a thermomagnetic switch, such as a switch included in the miniature circuit breaker 108 that protects one of the subsidiary circuits SC1-SCN. The estimated short-circuit current MaxIcc is compared with the maximum opening current Itr of the thermomagnetic switch 108. If the maximum opening current Itr is greater than the estimated short-circuit current MaxIcc, the test can be performed: a short-circuit condition is simulated to test the behavior of the thermomagnetic switch 108.

[0074] According to the aforementioned test, the measuring and control device 101 sends an SCM command signal to the variable load device 102, so that the first variable impedance 142 assumes a specific resistance value and is connected between the phase conductor PC and the ground conductor GC. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 24 / 46 22 / 28

[0075] The measuring and control device 101 monitors, by means of the first current meter 117, whether the current flowing to the phase conductor PC is interrupted due to the opening of the thermomagnetic switch 108. If the thermomagnetic switch 108 does not interrupt the current, the test is automatically suspended after a pre-set time interval monitored by the timer device included in the measuring and control device 101.

[0076] As in the second example, the electrical installation measurement system 100 is used to evaluate the differential switch opening current Idn associated, for example, with the residual current circuit breaker 109. According to this example, the first adjustable impedance device 140 can be directed to operate as a variable differential current generator circuit to produce a variable differential current that varies, for example, from 0 to 50 mA, in 0.5 mA steps or with continuous increase. The first adjustable impedance device 140 is connected between the phase conductor PC and the earth conductor GC and is controlled to generate the differential current with a pre-set increase in quantity (e.g., 0.5 mA) at each time interval T (e.g., T = 50 ms). The value Idn assumed by the differential current in the switching of the residual current circuit breaker 109, which represents the differential switch opening current, is measured by the measuring and control device 101.

[0077] Variable differential current generation can be achieved, for example, by an IGBT switch connected to a resistor driven by a PWM signal. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 25 / 46 23 / 28 (Pulse Wave Modulation) produced by control device 135 of variable load device 102.

[0078] According to a third example, the electrical installation measurement system 100 is employed to evaluate the trip time of the differential switch of a residual current circuit breaker (such as the miniature switch 108 or the RCBO 109), also called a differential switch. Considering the evaluated differential switch opening current value, as indicated above, the variable differential current generator circuit of the variable load device 102 is controlled to produce differential current of Idn, 2Idn and, finally, 5Idn.

[0079] In all three cases, the time interval between an initial moment t0 at which the current Idn, 2Idn or 5Idn is applied, and a switching time t1, at which the switching input occurs, is evaluated by means of a timer (e.g., a high-resolution timer) included in the measuring and control device 101. Preferably, if the differential switch 109 does not break within a maximum time interval (e.g., 100 ms), the test is automatically interrupted by the measuring and control device 101 to prevent overheating. It is noted that, conveniently, the exact circuit interruption time can be evaluated by the measuring and control device 101.

[0080] It is further noted that the first measuring device 115 and the second measuring device 116 (included in the measuring module 114 of the measuring and control device 101) can also perform measurements of electrical parameters independently of the variable load device 102, i.e., without collaboration with the Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 26 / 46 24 / 28 variable load device 102.

[0081] Specifically, measurement module 114 is configured to perform measurements of at least one electrical parameter selected from the group: - vft: phase-to-ground voltage, that is, the voltage between the phase conductor PC and the ground conductor GC; - vfn: phase-to-neutral voltage, that is, the voltage between the phase conductor PC and the neutral conductor GNC; - lf: phase current; that is, the current flowing to the phase conductor PC; and - ln: neutral current, that is, the current flowing to the neutral conductor NC.

[0082] Preferably, for the phase-to-ground voltage vft, phase-to-neutral voltage vfn, phase current lf and neutral current ln, the corresponding waveforms and root mean square (RMS) values ​​can be measured: Vft, Vfn, If and In.

[0083] In addition, measurement module 114 can also perform measurements of at least one electrical parameter selected from the group: - f: Frequency - φ: phase shift from current to voltage - PFin: power factor, If / vfn - PFif: power factor, In / vfn - T: Temperature

[0084] In addition, for example, the first measuring device 115 and the second measuring device 116 are configured to compute at least one additional parameter selected from the group: Active Power p, Reactive Power q, Active Energy and Reactive Energy. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 27 / 46 25 / 28 Specifically, the corresponding waveforms and RMS values ​​are computed for the related electrical parameters mentioned above.

[0085] The measuring and control device 101 can also perform, by means of the processing and control device 113, computation of additional parameters, such as: ground circuit impedance and / or differential current.

[0086] As an example, the differential current Iân is computed by the processing and control device 113, considering the measured parameters Phase Current If and Neutral Current In with power factor correction based on the power factor PFin and power factor PFif, according to the equation: lin = JOf · PFif- In · PP,»)2+ Of · (1 - ^V) — í» · (1 — PF,„2))2

[0087] According to one example, the ground circuit impedance Re is evaluated by the measuring and control device 101 (independently of the variable load device 102) as the difference between the Phase-to-Neutral Voltage Vfn and the Phase-to-Ground Voltage Vft, divided by the differential current δπ: Re =VfnVft ^Δη

[0088] It is observed that the ground circuit impedance Re can also be evaluated by the cooperation of the measuring and control device 101 and the variable load device 102. As shown schematically in Figure 6, when the first switch 143 is opened, the voltage Vo between the phase conductor PC and the ground conductor GC is measured by Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 28 / 46 26 / 28 first voltage meter 118. Closing the first switch 143, the first variable impedance 142, which has negligible resistance Ro, is introduced by the variable load device 102 between the phase conductor PC and the ground conductor GC: the corresponding voltage Vi is measured by the first voltage meter 118 and the phase current If is measured by the first current meter 117. The ground circuit impedance Re can be obtained using the equation: Re = V0-V1

[0089] According to a specific embodiment, measuring and control device 101 is also configured to detect specific events occurring in the electrical installation 103. In particular, at least one of the following detections can be performed: AC detection, overcurrent detection, overvoltage detection, undervoltage detection and abnormal frequency detection.

[0090] AC detection is triggered when the phase-to-neutral voltage is zero. Overvoltage detection is triggered when the phase voltage reaches the limit voltage value. Overvoltage detection is triggered when the phase-to-neutral voltage reaches the maximum limit voltage value. Undervoltage detection is triggered when the phase-to-neutral voltage reaches the minimum limit voltage value.

[0091] The measuring and control device 101 can also be configured to automatically perform monitoring (historical and real-time) of key parameters of the electrical illustration 103, such as: load and ground voltage (to check nominal values), current Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, page 29 / 46 27 / 28 load and differential (to check for potential faults), active and reactive power, and ground connection.

[0092] It is observed that the measuring and control device 101 can be configured to send specific detected event alerts to the user device 301, for example, via the server computer device 200. According to one embodiment, the user can be notified in the event of: abnormal system behavior (unsafe device connected, ground circuit connection failure, electricity input parameter mismatch or high temperature in the electrical cabinet, etc.); power outage; signal loss and need for system maintenance.

[0093] It is also observed that, even if the above description referred to a single-phase electrical installation 103, the electrical installation measurement system 100 can also be used to measure electrical parameters in three-phase electrical installations. Those skilled in the art recognize that examples of measurements described with reference to the single-phase conductor PC can also be performed for the other two phase conductors of a three-phase electrical installation. In this case, the number of measuring devices, analogous to the first measuring device 115, included in the measuring and control device 101 can be selected to allow the measurement of electrical parameters relating to the other two-phase conductors of the three-phase electrical installation.

[0094] The electrical installation measurement system described 100 provides advantages for professional technicians. In particular, the electrical installation measurement system 100 allows for the performance of tests and measurements. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, pp. 30 / 46 28 / 28 required in a way that is easier and faster than can be achieved with traditional devices. The 100 electrical installation metering system can be manufactured with low-cost components.

[0095] In addition, the electrical installation metering system described 100 can also provide advantages for end users (i.e., the homeowner). In particular, automatic monitoring of the electrical installation allows for actively increasing its safety by providing information on potential fault conditions and keeping electricity consumption under control. Petition 870200147979, dated 11 / 24 / 2020, pp. 31 / 46

Claims

1 / 6 CLAIMS 1. ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), characterized by comprising: - a measuring and control device (101) designed for installation and electrical connection to an electrical panel (104) of an electrical installation (103), configured to: - perform at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation (103), depending on an electrical load connected to the electrical installation (103); and comprising at least one of the following measurements: estimation of differential switch opening current; and estimation of differential switch opening time; and - transmission of command signals (SCM) along a telecommunications link; - a variable load device (102) connectable to the electrical installation (103), configured to: - receive the aforementioned command signals (SCM) from the telecommunications link; and - assume a series of load configurations according to the aforementioned command signals (SCM);wherein the variable load device (102) is portable and comprises: an electrical plug (139) for connection to a socket (112) of the aforementioned electrical installation (103) and comprising a first terminal (144), a second terminal (145) and a third terminal (146); a variable impedance module (136) comprising: Petition 870260006556, dated 23 / 01 / 2026, page 14 / 31 2 / 6 a first adjustable impedance device (140) including at least one first variable impedance (142) and a first switch (143); said at least one first variable impedance (142) having a first impedance terminal connected to the second terminal (145) of the electrical plug (139) and a second impedance terminal connected to the first switch (143) which is connected to the first terminal (144) of the electrical plug (139); the first switch (143) is configured to be closed / open to connect / disconnect the first variable impedance (142) to / from the first terminal (144) of the plug (139);a second adjustable impedance device (141) comprising at least a second variable impedance (147) and a second switch (148); the second variable impedance (147) comprises a third impedance terminal connected to the third terminal (146) of the plug (139) and a fourth impedance terminal connected to the second switch (148) which is connected to the first terminal (144) of the plug (139); the second switch (148) is configured to be closed / open to connect / disconnect the second variable impedance (147) to / from the first terminal (144) of the plug (139); wherein: the first adjustable impedance device (140) and the second adjustable impedance (143) are configured to assume a series of values ​​according to said series of load configurations;and the variable load device (102) comprises a control device (135) configured to generate control signals (SA) in accordance with said command signals Petition 870260006556, dated 23 / 01 / 2026, page 15 / 31 3 / 6 (SCM) to select said series of values.; 2. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that the measurement and control device (101) comprises: - a measurement module (114) configured to perform the aforementioned at least one measurement of an electrical parameter of the electrical installation (103); - a first wireless communication module (127) configured to transmit the aforementioned command signals (SCM); and - a processing and control device (113) configured to manage the operation of the measurement module (114) and the first wireless communication module (127).

3. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 2, characterized in that the variable load device (102) comprises: - a second wireless communication module (137) configured to receive the aforementioned command signals (SCM) from the first wireless communication module (127); and wherein - said control device (135) is connected to said wireless communication module (137) and configured to manage the operation of the variable impedance module (136) in accordance with the command signals (SCM).

4. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 3, characterized in that each of the first variable impedance (142) and the second variable impedance (147) includes at least one electrical device selected from the group: a variable resistive load, a variable inductive load, a variable capacitive load.

5. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 1, characterized in that the measurement and control device (101) is configured to perform a measurement procedure by means of: - transmitting procedure command signals (SCM) to cause the variable load device (102), when connected to the electrical installation (103), to assume a procedure load configuration; and - performing said measurement at least one electrical parameter measurement of the electrical installation (103), depending on said procedure load configuration assumed by the variable load device (102) to provide at least one measured value.

6. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 5, characterized in that said measurement and control device (101) is additionally configured to process said at least one measured value in order to produce at least one computed electrical parameter.

7. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 1, characterized by the measurement and control device (101) comprising: - first voltage meter (118) to be connected between a phase conductor (PC) and a ground conductor (GC) of the electrical installation (103); - second voltage meter (120) to be connected between a phase conductor (PC) and a neutral conductor (NC) of the electrical installation (103); - first current meter (117) to be connected to the phase conductor (PC); and - second current meter (120) to be connected to the neutral conductor (NC).

8. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 5, characterized in that the system is configured to perform, according to the aforementioned measurement procedure, at least one measurement selected from the group: earth circuit impedance; voltage drop measurement across a part of the electrical installation (103); short-circuit current estimation; test of the behavior of a thermomagnetic switch.

9. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that the system further comprises: - at least one computer device (200) external to the measurement and control device (101), configured to exchange data with said measurement and control device (101) and to store values ​​of electrical parameters; - at least one client device (300, 301) configured to exchange data and information with said measurement and control device (101) and to have access to said stored values ​​by a user of said at least one client device.

10. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to claim 3, characterized in that each of the aforementioned measurement and control device (101) and the aforementioned variable load device (102) comprises: a corresponding housing (134, 153) and a corresponding electrical power supply module (125, 138). Petition 870260006556, dated 23 / 01 / 2026, page 18 / 31 6 / 6 11. MEASUREMENT SYSTEM (100), according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that the system is configured to operate in an electrical installation (103) of a type selected from: single-phase electrical installation and three-phase electrical installation. Petition 870260006556, dated 23 / 01 / 2026, p. 19 / 31

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