Connection kit for an electrical device, in particular for an electrical device of the type to be fixed to a wall

Abstract

A kit is described comprising an electrical device (e.g., the electrical device may be an electrical control device of the type that can be mounted on a wall) and a coupling element inserted in a unique manner on the back side for connecting the electrical device to another electrical device, where the coupling element has a rigid body, the coupling element has a rigid body defining a projection or recess that can engage with a corresponding recess or projection of an outer housing of the device, and also has an electrical line bus that terminates at its end in an exposed electrical connector so as to be able to contact with an exposed electrical pad of the electrical device to be connected, therefore, a single body which can be understood as a single device is formed.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates generally to electrical equipment, and more specifically, to a kit for connecting one electrical device to another electrical device to form a single electrical device using a connecting element. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical control equipment is a device that includes a microcontroller for managing the entire equipment, such as... Figure 1 The device shown is an example. Typically, such known electrical control devices may include at least one switching device controlled by a microcontroller and a sensor also connected to the microcontroller; for example, the switching device may be a common relay that interfaces with an external source via a connector. The sensor provides measurements to the microcontroller, which then controls one or more switching devices of the electrical control device based on these measurements.

[0003] Typically, these electrical control devices can be mounted on walls or DIN rails, thus providing a flat mounting surface for resting against the wall or rail.

[0004] The disadvantage of installing such equipment lies in the fact that, theoretically, it can be connected to other electrical control devices, allowing them to share measurement information detected by the sensors of each device. However, currently, to achieve this, the connectors of the switching devices of each device must be joined together to enable communication between the devices. When multiple electrical control devices are interconnected to form a control panel, there are fewer available connectors for external devices that must be controlled by each electrical control device, and there are also external cables running from one device to another, which is not only unsightly but also gives the visual impression that the control panel is not a unified whole. Summary of the Invention

[0005] These disadvantages can be at least partially overcome by the kit defined in the appended claims. The kit according to the invention comprises: an electrical device, for example, an electrical control device capable of being mounted on a wall or DIN rail; and a coupling element or connecting element for coupling the electrical device to another electrical device, wherein the coupling element or connecting element has a rigid body defining a protrusion or recess that can engage with a corresponding recess or protrusion accessible from the rear of the device (on an outer housing); and the coupling element or connecting element further comprises an electrical busbar terminating at its end in an exposed electrical connector capable of contacting an exposed electrical pad of one or more electrical devices to be connected.

[0006] Therefore, the term "electrical equipment" should be understood as a first type of electrical equipment, such as an electrical control device that can be mounted on a wall or (e.g., a DIN rail); while the term "another type of electrical equipment" is a second type of electrical equipment, such as an electrical device that can be mounted on a wall or a rail (e.g., a DIN rail).

[0007] Within the scope of this invention, the term "first device" in the following text means a first electrical device, such as an electrical control device of the type that can be mounted on a wall or (e.g., a DIN rail); similarly, the term "second device" means a second electrical device, such as an electrical device of the type that can be mounted on a wall or rail (e.g., a DIN rail), which is designed to be electrically connected to the first device to exchange digital data signals with the first device and / or be powered by the first device.

[0008] More specifically, at least one first device in the kit according to the invention includes a support body defining a first electrical circuit and a first electrical pad. Each electrical circuit in the first electrical circuit is connected to a corresponding electrical pad in the first electrical pad. Furthermore, the first electrical circuit includes data lines intended for transmitting digital data signals. The first support body, the first electrical circuit, and the first electrical pad may be part of a first printed circuit or a first printed circuit defining the first device.

[0009] At least one first device in the kit also includes a microcontroller, i.e., a first microcontroller, which is mounted on the support, i.e. associated with the support, and the microcontroller has a connector for connecting to a data cable.

[0010] At least one first device of the kit also includes an outer housing. The outer housing of the first device encloses the support, exposing the first electrical pad. In other words, the outer housing includes an opening that leaves the first electrical pad uncovered.

[0011] The outer casing of the first device further defines a first groove and / or a protrusion. In other words, the outer casing of the first device is provided with a first groove and / or a protrusion.

[0012] As mentioned above, the kit according to the invention also includes a coupling element or connecting element for coupling or connecting the first device to the second device. That is, the coupling element or connecting element is designed to connect the first device to the second device.

[0013] According to the invention, the connecting element or linking element further has a rigid body defining a second protrusion and / or groove on a first side, the second protrusion and / or groove being complementary to the first groove and / or protrusion. In other words, the first groove and / or protrusion of the outer housing of the first device and the second protrusion and / or groove of the connecting element or linking element are configured to form a mutual shape connection or other type of connection. Furthermore, the connecting element or linking element includes an electrical busbar terminating at a first end at a first end exposed from the first side (i.e., the side of the rigid body where the second protrusion and / or groove is provided), and at a second end opposite to the first end at a second end exposed from the second side opposite to the first side. In other words, the connecting element or linking element is provided with an electrical busbar having a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. The first electrical connector and the second electrical connector are respectively formed at a first end and a second end of the same electrical line, the first end and the second end being opposite to each other. The first electrical connector is exposed on or facing the first side for connection with a first electrical pad of the first device. The second electrical connector is exposed on the second side opposite to the first side or facing the second side to connect with the second electrical pad of the second device.

[0014] In practice, according to the present invention, the first device and the connecting element or linking element are configured such that when the connecting element or linking element is mounted using a second protrusion and / or groove that engages with a first groove and / or protrusion of the first device, the exposed first electrical connector of the electrical busbar contacts the first electrical pad, thereby establishing electrical continuity between the electrical lines of the busbar and the first electrical lines of the first device. In other words, the first device and the connecting element or linking element are configured such that when the second protrusion and / or groove of the connecting element or linking element engages with the first groove and / or protrusion of the first device, the exposed first electrical connector of the electrical busbar of the connecting element or linking element contacts the first electrical pad of the support of the first device. In other words, in use, after the first groove and / or protrusion and the second protrusion and / or groove are interconnected, the first electrical connector of the electrical busbar contacts the first electrical pad, thus electrically connecting the electrical lines of the busbar to the first electrical lines of the first device.

[0015] In this way, the first device can advantageously be mechanically and electronically connected to the connecting element or linking element. In practice, the first device is associated with the connecting element or linking element through the interlocking of the first protrusions and / or recesses, and the first electrical connector is electronically connected to the first pad. Furthermore, the first device can also be electronically connected to the second device through the connecting element or linking element, particularly through a second electrical connector exposed on the electrical busbar.

[0016] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the rigid body is shaped to have a central plane, wherein the first side and the second side are opposite to the central plane.

[0017] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the electrical busbar is anchored to the rigid body with the exposed first electrical connector facing a first side and the exposed second electrical connector facing a second side. The term "anchored" means that the electrical busbar is permanently associated with the rigid body. Therefore, the electrical busbar will remain fixed or associated with the rigid body unless an operator takes deliberate disengagement measures (i.e., disconnect or destroy the connection).

[0018] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the electrical busbars are removably anchored to the rigid body, i.e., removably anchored to the rigid body. Advantageously, if one of the electrical busbars fails, only the electrical busbar needs to be replaced, without replacing the entire connecting element or link. Conversely, if the rigid body is damaged, only the spare body needs to be replaced, without replacing the electrical busbar.

[0019] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the electrical busbar is embedded in a rigid body. In other words, the rigid body accommodates the electrical busbar, leaving the first and second electrical connectors exposed or uncovered. Alternatively, the rigid body defines a seat portion therein that receives or accommodates the electrical busbar, leaving the first and second electrical connectors uncovered.

[0020] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the first electrical circuit includes a first electrical circuit of the first device, which is connected to a connector of a power supply source. In other words, the first electrical circuit includes a first electrical circuit of the first device, which is designed for connection to a connector of a power supply source. In this way, in use, if the second device is not connected to a corresponding power supply source, power can be supplied to the second device by electrically connecting it to the first device via a coupling element or connecting element.

[0021] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the outer housing of the first device defines a first flat resting surface for resting against a wall or DIN rail. In other words, the outer housing of the first device includes a substantially flat resting first surface intended to be secured or rested against a wall or DIN rail during use. This first flat surface faces the back side of the first device, opposite to the user side. The user side refers to the side facing the user during use.

[0022] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first flat support surface exposes the first electrical pad. In other words, the first flat surface includes an opening facing the first electrical pad. In this way, the first pad can be accessed from the back side of the first device to engage with a first electrical connector of a coupling element or connecting element.

[0023] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the first groove and / or protrusion and the second protrusion and / or groove are configured to insert into or engage with each other along an insertion direction. This insertion direction points from the rear side of the first device to the user side. Thus, the rigid body and outer housing of the first device are configured such that, in order to interlock the first groove and / or protrusion with the second protrusion and / or groove, the second protrusion and / or groove is inserted into the first groove and / or protrusion along an insertion direction pointing from the rear side or a portion of the flat support surface towards the user side of the first device. The connecting element or linking element is inserted from the rear side (i.e., from a portion of the flat support surface), and this fact ensures that when the first device is mounted on a wall or DIN rail, the connecting element or linking element is obscured from the viewing direction. Therefore, when the first device is mounted on a DIN rail or wall, from the user side, the first device and the connecting element or linking element appear to be substantially a single body or a single entity or integral block. Therefore, for enhanced security, when the first device is mounted on a DIN rail or wall, the connecting element or linking element cannot be pulled out or removed from the first device. Therefore, it becomes particularly difficult to damage the components formed by the first device and the connecting or linking elements during use.

[0024] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the rigid body further defines a flat bottom surface such that when the rigid body of the connecting element or link engages with the first groove and / or protrusion and the exposed first electrical connector contacts the first electrical pad, the flat bottom surface of the rigid body is coplanar with the first flat support surface of the first device. In this way, it becomes more difficult to pull out or remove the connecting element or link. In fact, advantageously, since the flat bottom surface of the connecting element or link abuts against a wall (or DIN rail) during use, it cannot be accidentally removed.

[0025] Furthermore, according to another preferred aspect of the invention, the outer housing of the first device defines a first groove and / or protrusion extending on a first side surface of the first device. The outer housing of the first device is provided with the first groove and / or protrusion. The first groove and / or protrusion are particularly formed on the first side surface of the first device; specifically, the first groove and / or protrusion is defined on the first side surface of the outer housing of the first device. Preferably, the first side surface of the outer housing is a surface substantially orthogonal to the flat support surface. Preferably, the first side surface is a surface located on or facing the side of the device. This side surface refers to the side surface of the first device between the back side and the opposite use side.

[0026] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the rigid body has a third protrusion and / or groove on a second side opposite to the first side. Preferably, the third protrusion and / or groove is configured to associate with a corresponding fourth groove and / or protrusion formed on the second device. In this way, the second device can be mechanically connected to the first device via a coupling element or connecting element.

[0027] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the rigid body has a main body portion. This main body portion further includes a base, from which two side portions project from opposite ends. Preferably, the side portions are arranged transversely to the base; more preferably, the side portions are arranged perpendicularly to the base. Preferably, the main body portion is generally U-shaped. More preferably, the rigid body has a main body portion having a cross-section that is generally U-shaped along a centerline plane. Preferably, the base defines a flat bottom surface.

[0028] According to a preferred aspect, the second protrusion and / or groove is defined on the side portion of the first side.

[0029] According to a preferred aspect, the third groove and / or protrusion is defined on the side portion of the second side.

[0030] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the rigid body has a first auxiliary portion and a second auxiliary portion. The first auxiliary portion is associated with a base on a first side, and the second auxiliary portion is associated with a central portion on a second side. Preferably, the first and second auxiliary portions are arranged transversely to the base; more preferably, they are arranged perpendicularly to the base. Even more preferably, the first and second auxiliary portions extend substantially parallel to the side portions of the main body of the rigid body. Preferably, an electrical busbar is at least partially housed within the first and second auxiliary portions. Preferably, each auxiliary portion has its own opening such that a first electrical connector of the electrical busbar can be accessed from the first side through the opening of the first auxiliary portion, and a second electrical connector of the electrical busbar can be accessed from the second side through the opening of the second auxiliary portion. In other words, the first electrical connector is exposed on the first side or accessible from the first side through the opening of the first auxiliary portion, and the second electrical connector is exposed on the first side or accessible from the second side through the opening of the second auxiliary portion.

[0031] As mentioned above, the first device and the second device can be electronically connected by a connecting element, particularly a second electrical connector exposed via an electrical busbar. Therefore, this connecting element is an electromechanical connector, configured for both mechanical and electrical connection of the first and second devices.

[0032] Even more preferably, the third protrusion and / or groove is arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the second protrusion and / or groove. Specifically, the second protrusion and / or groove and the third protrusion and / or groove are arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the centerline plane of the rigid body. If the second protrusion and / or groove and the third protrusion and / or groove of the rigid body are arranged asymmetrically with respect to the centerline plane, it is advantageous to determine that the connecting element or linking element can only be connected to the first groove and / or protrusion and the fourth groove and / or protrusion respectively in a single predefined spatial direction.

[0033] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the first device and the connecting element or linking element are configured to be reversibly connected to each other. That is, the first device and the connecting element or linking element are configured to be removably connected to each other. Thus, the first device and the connecting element or linking element can be repeatedly connected or disconnected as needed. According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the first device and the connecting element or linking element are configured to be stably and reversibly connected to each other. Therefore, the rigid body remains fixed or associated with the first device unless intentionally separated by an operator.

[0034] According to another preferred aspect, the connecting element or linking element is configured to be reversibly coupled to the first device and the second device (if it is part of a kit). Thus, the connecting element or linking element is configured to reversibly connect the first device to the second device. The connecting element or linking element can be connected and disconnected from the first and second devices as needed, thereby allowing for a modular electrical panel to be obtained by a kit including at least the first device, the second device, and the connecting element or linking element.

[0035] The second device can also be connected to the third electrical device via the same connecting or linking elements to repeat the modular configuration described herein.

[0036] Preferably, the second protrusion and / or groove and the first groove and / or protrusion are configured to slide reversibly relative to each other, such that the first device is reversibly connected to / disconnected from the coupling element or connecting element.

[0037] Alternatively, according to the final preferred aspect, the first device and the coupling element or connecting element are configured to be irreversibly connected to each other. That is, once the first device is connected to the coupling element or connecting element, separation between the first device and the coupling element or connecting element would cause the first device (particularly its outer housing) or the coupling element or connecting element to break or permanently deform. Therefore, separation of the first device from the coupling element or connecting element does not allow them to be reconnected.

[0038] Preferably, the second protrusion and / or groove and the first groove and / or protrusion are configured to engage irreversibly with each other, such that the first device is irreversibly connected to the coupling element or connecting element.

[0039] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the kit includes a second device.

[0040] Preferably, the second device is the same as or similar to the first device to form the above-described modular configuration.

[0041] Preferably, the second device further includes a second support body defining a second electrical circuit and a second electrical pad. Each electrical circuit in the second electrical circuit is connected to a corresponding electrical pad in the second electrical pad. The second electrical circuit includes a second data line intended for transmitting digital data signals. The second electrical circuit may also include a second power supply line. The second support body, the second electrical circuit, and the second electrical pad may be part of a second printed circuit or a second printed circuit defining the second device.

[0042] Preferably, the second device further includes a second microcontroller, which is mounted on the second support and has a second connector for connection to the second data line.

[0043] Preferably, the second device further includes at least one second switching device, which is mounted on the second support and connected to the second microcontroller for control by the second microcontroller.

[0044] Preferably, the second device further includes at least one second sensor, which is mounted on the second support and connected to the second microcontroller to provide the second microcontroller with a signal related to the measured quantity.

[0045] Preferably, the second device further includes a second outer housing that encloses the second support, exposing or uncovering the corresponding second electrical pad. In other words, the outer housing of the second device includes an opening that allows the second electrical pad to remain uncovered.

[0046] Preferably, the outer housing of the second device defines or is provided with a fourth groove and / or protrusion that complements the third protrusion and / or recess. Similar to the first and / or protrusions and the second and / or recesses mentioned above, the fourth groove and / or protrusion and the third protrusion and / or recess are also configured to form an interlock, such as a form connection. The first device can then be mechanically connected to the second device by interlocking the third and / or recess with the fourth groove and / or protrusion.

[0047] Preferably, the second device and the connecting element or linking element are configured such that when the connecting element or linking element is assembled using a third protrusion and / or groove that engages with a fourth groove and / or protrusion of the second device, the exposed second electrical connector of the electrical busbar of the connecting element or linking element contacts the second electrical pad of the second device.

[0048] The first device can then exchange data signals with the second device or supply power to the second device via the bus lines of the connecting element or linking element, which are connected to the first electrical pad and the second electrical pad respectively via a first electrical connector and a second electrical connector. Therefore, the first device can be mechanically and electrically connected to the second device via the connecting element or linking element. As previously mentioned, the connecting element or linking element is therefore a type of electromechanical connector.

[0049] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the outer housing of the second device defines a fourth groove and / or protrusion. Preferably, the fourth groove and / or protrusion extends on a second side surface of the second device, i.e., on the second side surface of the outer housing of the second device. Preferably, in use, the second side surfaces of the outer housing of the first device and the second side surfaces of the outer housing of the second device face each other. In other words, the first device and the second device are intended to be arranged side by side, i.e., the first side surfaces and the second side surfaces face each other.

[0050] According to another preferred aspect of the invention, the fourth groove and / or protrusion and the third protrusion and / or groove are configured to be able to insert into or engage with each other along the aforementioned insertion direction. The insertion direction is from the back side of the first device and the second device toward the user side of the first device and the second device. Similar to the first device, for the second device, the back side is also opposite to the user side, and the back side is intended to face a wall or DIN rail. Thus, the rigid bodies and outer housings of the first device and the second device are configured such that: - To enable the first groove and / or protrusion to connect with the second protrusion and / or groove, the second protrusion and / or groove is inserted into the first groove and / or protrusion or into the first groove and / or protrusion along the insertion direction; - To enable the third protrusion and / or groove to connect with the fourth groove and / or protrusion, the third protrusion and / or groove is inserted into the fourth groove and / or protrusion or into the fourth groove and / or protrusion along the aforementioned insertion direction.

[0051] The connecting element or linking element is inserted from the rear side of the first device, and therefore also from the rear side of the second device. This fact means that when the first and second devices are mounted on a wall or DIN rail, the connecting element or linking element will be obscured from the viewpoint. Therefore, when the first and second devices are mounted on a DIN rail or wall, from the user's perspective, the first device, the second device, and the connecting element or linking element appear to be essentially a single, integral, or monolithic unit. Consequently, during use, it becomes particularly difficult to damage the assembly formed by the first device and the connecting element or linking element.

[0052] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the outer housing of the second device defines a second flat resting surface that abuts against a wall or DIN rail. In other words, the outer housing of the second device includes a substantially flat second surface designed to be secured or rested on a wall or DIN rail during use. This second flat surface faces the back side of the second device, which is opposite to the use side of the second device.

[0053] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the second flat support surface exposes the second electrical pad. In other words, the second flat surface includes at least one opening facing the second electrical pad. In this way, the second pad can be accessed from the back side of the second device to engage with a second electrical connector of a coupling element or connecting element. Similar to the first device, the back side of the second device refers to the side opposite to its use side.

[0054] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the outer housing of the second device is configured such that: when the rigid body of the connecting element or linking element engages with the first groove and / or protrusion and the fourth groove and / or protrusion, and when the exposed first and second electrical connectors contact the first and second electrical pads respectively, the flat bottom surface of the rigid body is coplanar with the first and second flat support surfaces. Therefore, as described above, advantageously, the connecting element or linking element cannot be accidentally removed because its flat bottom surface abuts against a wall (or DIN rail) during use. Thus, for enhanced safety, the connecting element or linking element cannot be pulled out or removed from the first device when it is mounted on a DIN rail or wall.

[0055] According to a preferred aspect of the invention, the second electrical circuit includes a second power supply line of the second device connected to the power supply pad of the second electrical pad. The power supply pad of the first electrical pad can be connected to the power supply pad of the second electrical pad via a coupling element or connecting element. Preferably, the second device is provided with a power management block or unit connected to the second power supply pad and / or the second power supply line. The power management unit is connected to the second power supply pad to receive the power supply voltage via the coupling element or connecting element. The management unit is preferably electrically connected to the microcontroller of the second device to manage the power supply.

[0056] Alternatively, depending on different preferred aspects, the second electrical line includes a second power supply line for the second device, which is connected to a connector of a power supply source or is designed to be connected to a power supply source.

[0057] The invention, namely the kit, is more precisely defined in the appended claims and the following description. Attached Figure Description

[0058] Figure 1 An electrical control device of a type that can be mounted on a wall is shown.

[0059] Figure 2 The electrical equipment of the kit according to the invention and the rigid body of the connecting element or linking element are shown.

[0060] Figure 3 shows: A) a perspective view of the connecting element or linking element according to the invention; B) a top view of the connecting element or linking element; C) a cross-sectional view along the CC plane of the connecting element or linking element; D) an exploded view of the connecting element or linking element according to the invention, showing the rigid body and the line busbar removably anchored to the rigid body.

[0061] Figure 4 A kit according to the invention is shown for mechanically and electrically connecting multiple electrical devices together via multiple coupling elements or connecting elements.

[0062] Figure 5 It shows Figure 4 The appearance of electrical equipment when it is installed side by side with connecting elements or linking components.

[0063] Figure 6 yes Figure 4 A perspective view of the electrical equipment in the image, which together form what appears to be a single, integrated electrical panel.

[0064] Figure 7 A connecting element or linking element is shown in which the line bus is embedded in a rigid body according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0065] Figure 8 This is a basic schematic diagram of how two devices according to the present invention are connected side by side through a single connecting element or connecting element, so that each device can be independently powered by a main power supply, and the two devices can exchange information through the line bus of the connecting element or connecting element.

[0066] Figure 9 This is a basic schematic diagram of how two devices according to the present invention are connected side by side through a single connecting element or linking element, such that only one device is independently powered by the main power supply, while other devices can obtain power and exchange information through the line bus of the connecting element or linking element.

[0067] Figure 10 This is a basic schematic diagram of how three devices according to the present invention are connected side by side through two connecting elements or linking elements, so that only one device is independently powered by the main power supply, while the other devices can obtain power and exchange information through the line bus of the two connecting elements or linking elements.

[0068] Figure 11 This is a basic schematic diagram of how two devices according to the present invention can be remotely connected via two connecting elements or linking elements, such that each device can be independently powered by a main power supply, and the two devices can exchange information via the line bus of the connecting element or linking element.

[0069] Figure 12 This is a basic schematic diagram of how two devices according to the present invention can be remotely connected via a connecting element or a linking element, such that each device can be independently powered by a main power supply, and the two devices can exchange information via a connecting element or a line bus of a linking element connected to a connector of one of the two devices.

[0070] Figure 13 It is a cross-sectional view of a connecting element or linking element that is irreversibly connected to the first device. Detailed Implementation

[0071] Figure 2 A kit according to the invention is shown as an example. Figure 2 An electrical control device 1, which can be wall-mounted, and a connecting element 2, viewed from the rear side relative to the side of the control device in use, are shown. The kit according to the invention also includes the electrical control device 1, which can be mounted on a DIN rail. Figure 2 An electrical control device 1 is shown, viewed from the side of a flat support surface 3 for placement against a wall, i.e., from the back side of the electrical control device 1. It can be seen that the outer housing 12 of the electrical control device 1 defines a flat support surface 3 that exposes an electrical pad 4, and the outer housing 12 defines a groove and / or protrusion 5 extending on a side surface 13, or more precisely, a first groove and / or protrusion. In other words, the outer housing 12 includes a flat support surface 3 and a first side surface 13. Preferably, the flat support surface 3 and the first side surface 13 are arranged laterally relative to each other. The first side surface 13 is provided with the first groove and / or protrusion 5. The connecting element or linking element 2 has a rigid body 14 that defines a flat bottom surface 6 such that when the rigid body 14 of the connecting element or linking element 2 engages with the first groove and / or protrusion 5 of the electrical device 1 using its protrusion and / or groove 7 (i.e., the second protrusion and / or groove 7), the flat bottom surface 6 of the rigid body 14 is coplanar with the flat support surface 3 of the device 1.

[0072] As shown in the various views of Figure 3, the connecting element or linking element 2 of this kit is designed to mechanically and electrically connect the first electrical device 1 to the second electrical device. It has a rigid body 14 that defines a second protrusion and / or groove 7 on a first side that complements the first groove and / or protrusion 5 of the device to be connected (i.e., the first device 1), and an electrical busbar 8 that terminates at a first end with a first electrical connector 9 and at a second end opposite the first end with a second electrical connector 10 on a second side opposite the first side. When the connecting element or linking element 2 is installed using the second protrusion and / or groove 7 that engages with the complementary first groove and / or protrusion 5 of the device 1, the exposed first electrical connector 9 of the electrical busbar 8 contacts the electrical pad 4 of the device 1 (i.e., the first device 1), thereby establishing electrical continuity between the electrical wiring of the busbar 8 and the internal electrical wiring of the device 1. Thus, the connecting element or linking element 2 achieves an electrical and mechanical connection with the electrical device 1. By connecting another electrical device (i.e., the second electrical device 1a) to the other side of the connecting element or linking element 2, an electrical panel consisting of two electrical devices that are electrically and mechanically connected to each other is obtained. The connecting element or linking element 2 is configured to provide an electrical and mechanical connection between the two electrical devices. In other words, the connecting element or linking element 2 is an electromechanical connector.

[0073] According to the preferred aspect shown in Figure 3, the electrical busbar 8 is removably anchored to the rigid body 14 (e.g., by interlocking). Furthermore, the rigid body has a centerline plane such that the first electrical connector 9 and the second electrical connector 10 protrude from opposite sides relative to the centerline plane.

[0074] According to the preferred aspect shown in Figure 3, the protrusions and / or grooves 7, 11 of the rigid body 14 are not symmetrically arranged with respect to the centerline plane, thereby uniquely defining the direction in which the two electrical devices are connected side by side. According to this preferred aspect, the rigid body 14 is provided with a second protrusion and / or groove 7 and a third protrusion and / or groove 11. Preferably, the third protrusion and / or groove 11 is configured to be associated with a corresponding fourth groove and / or protrusion 16 of the second device 1a.

[0075] according to Figure 7 In the preferred aspect shown and as an alternative to the above-mentioned preferred aspect, the protrusions and / or grooves 7, 11 (i.e., the second protrusion and / or groove 7 and the third protrusion and / or groove 11) are symmetrically arranged on both sides of the central plane of the rigid body 14.

[0076] according to Figure 7In the aspect shown, the electrical busbar 8 is embedded in the rigid body 14 such that only the first electrical connector 9 and the second electrical connector 10 protrude from the rigid body 14, while the electrical busbar (i.e., the electrical busbar 8) travels within the rigid body 14 (i.e. is accommodated or contained within the rigid body 14).

[0077] Using the kit according to the invention, an electrical panel can be created consisting of multiple electrical devices (e.g., control devices) installed adjacent to each other (i.e., side-by-side) and interconnected mechanically and electrically, enabling the devices to exchange information and potentially share power, giving the electrical panel a unified appearance as if it were a single, specially designed device. For example, as... Figure 4 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, a composite electrical panel can be formed using a kit comprising four electrical devices and three connecting elements or linking elements according to the present invention. Figure 5 A transparent, detailed view is shown, illustrating how the asymmetrical protrusions and / or grooves of the rigid body 14 engage on both sides with complementary corresponding grooves and / or protrusions of two electrical control devices to be electrically and mechanically connected side-by-side. In other words, Figure 5 A transparent, detailed view is shown, illustrating how the asymmetrical second protrusion and / or groove 7 and the third protrusion and / or groove 11 of the rigid body 14 engage with the first groove and / or protrusion of the first electrical device 1 and the fourth groove and / or protrusion 16 of the second electrical device 1a, respectively. In this way, the two electrical devices 1 and 1a are mechanically connected to each other. Furthermore, as... Figure 5 As shown, in the electrical panel, the first electrical connector 9 and the second electrical connector 10 are respectively connected to the first electrical pad 4 of the first device 1 and the second electrical pad of the second device 1a. In this way, the two electrical devices are also electrically connected to each other.

[0078] Specifically, Figure 4 An exploded view of a kit comprising four electrical devices (i.e., first electrical device 1, second electrical device 1a, third electrical device 1b, and fourth electrical device 1c) is shown, which can be mechanically and electrically connected by three connecting elements or linking elements as described above.

[0079] Figure 6 The final electrical panel is shown, which appears to be formed as a single block and is composed of... Figure 4 It consists of four devices that are connected to each other to exchange information.

[0080] The connecting element or connecting element 2 is inserted from the portion of the flat resting surface 3 of the device for mounting on the wall (i.e., from the back side of the electrical device). This fact means that when the electrical device is mounted on the wall (or on a DIN rail), the connecting element or connecting element 2 will be hidden, and because its flat bottom surface 6 abuts against the wall (or DIN rail), the connecting element or connecting element 2 will not be accidentally removed.

[0081] With the aid of the kit according to the invention, two or more electrical devices can be connected to each other in a variety of ways, such as Figures 8 to 12 As shown in the example. For example ( Figure 8 Two devices can be connected side-by-side by a single connecting element or connecting element 2 according to the invention, such that each device is independently powered by the main power supply, and the two devices can exchange information through the connecting element or the line bus of the connecting element. Figure 8 The circuitry inside the housings of electrical devices CONTROLLER1 and CONTROLLER2 is schematically shown. Figure 8 In this context, CONTROLLER1 corresponds to the first device as described above, and CONTROLLER2 corresponds to the second device as described above. Figure 8 In this context, the connecting element or linking element 2 is called KEY. Figure 8 In the non-limiting example shown, the electrical equipment (i.e., the first device and the second device) includes: - A support, for example, may also be a printed circuit board (PCB) defining electrical lines and electrical pads, wherein each electrical line is connected to a corresponding electrical pad, and the internal electrical lines include data lines intended for transmitting digital data signals, as well as optional power supply lines; - A microcontroller, which is mounted on the support and has a connector for connecting to a data cable.

[0082] The device may also optionally include: - One or more relay switching devices, said one or more relay switching devices are mounted on the support and connected to a microcontroller for control by the microcontroller; - One or more PROBE sensors, which are mounted on the support and connected to the microcontroller to provide the microcontroller with a signal related to the measured quantity.

[0083] With the help of connecting element or connecting element 2, Figure 8The two devices schematically shown are interconnected mechanically and electrically to enable the two microcontrollers to exchange information. This forms an electrical panel consisting of devices for measuring different quantities, where each electrical device (CONTROLLER) can utilize the measurement results from other devices in the electrical panel to more effectively control its switching mechanism. Furthermore, the microcontrollers can be programmed so that one microcontroller performs the primary function (MICROCONTROLLER), while the other microcontrollers are subordinate to the primary microcontroller (SECONDARY). In other words, preferably, the microcontroller of the first device 1 can be configured to control the microcontroller of the second device 1a. In other words, preferably, the operation of the microcontroller of the second device 1a is subordinate to the operation of the microcontroller of the first device 1.

[0084] like Figure 9 As shown, in a preferred embodiment of the kit according to the invention, two devices can also be connected side-by-side via a single connecting element or connection element KEY, such that only the first device CONTROLLER1 is independently powered by the main power supply POWER SUPPLY, while the other device CONTROLLER2 can be powered and exchange information via the line bus of the connecting element or connection element KEY. In this case, for convenience, the device CONTROLLER2 will include a power management module LOGIC POWER SUPPLY STAGE, which will receive the power supply voltage through the connecting element or connection element KEY and be responsible for managing the power supply to the internal circuitry of the device CONTROLLER2. Optionally, the microcontroller MICROCONTROLLER1 of the first device CONTROLLER1 will perform the main function (MAIN) because it is directly powered by the main power supply POWER SUPPLY; while the other microcontroller MICROCONTROLLER2 will perform the secondary function (SECONDARY) supporting the first microcontroller MICROCONTROLLER1.

[0085] exist Figure 9 In this context, CONTROLLER1 corresponds to the first device 1 as described above, and CONTROLLER2 corresponds to the second device 1a as described above. Figure 9 In the diagram, the connecting element or linking element 2 is marked as KEY.

[0086] With the aid of the kit according to the invention, such as Figure 10As shown, three (or more) devices can be connected side-by-side via two (or more) connecting elements or linking elements to form an electrical panel. In this panel, the first device, CONTROLLER1, is independently powered by the main power supply POWER GRID, while the other devices, CONTROLLER2 and CONTROLLER3, are powered by the first device, CONTROLLER1. Information can be exchanged via the line bus of two connecting elements or linking elements KEY. Additionally, in this case, as shown in reference... Figure 9 As shown, for convenience, device CONTROLLER1 will perform the main function, as it is directly powered by the main power supply (POWER SUPPLY), while the other microcontrollers MICROCONTROLLER2 and MICROCONTROLLER3 will perform secondary functions for the first microcontroller MICROCONTROLLER1. Similarly, for convenience, devices CONTROLLER2 and CONTROLLER3 performing secondary functions will include a power management block (LOGIC POWER SUPPLY STAGE), which will receive the power supply voltage via a connection element (KEY) and manage the power supply to the internal circuitry of the respective electrical device. With the aid of the connection element (KEY), the three devices CONTROLLER1, CONTROLLER2, and CONTROLLER3 will together form an electrical panel that appears as a single block, as the connection element (KEY) mechanically (and electrically) binds the three devices side-by-side.

[0087] exist Figure 10 In this context, CONTROLLER1 corresponds to the first device 1 as described above, and CONTROLLER2 corresponds to the second device 1a as described above. CONTROLLER3 corresponds to the third electrical device 1b. Figure 10 In the diagram, the connecting element or linking element 2 is marked as KEY.

[0088] Other connection configurations between electrical devices can also be achieved using the kit according to the invention. For example, such as... Figure 11 As shown, if it is not possible to install two devices CONTROLLER1 and CONTROLLER2 side by side and connect them together using a single connecting element or linking element, it is still possible to use the two connecting elements or linking elements KEY according to the kit of the present invention, and a cable CABLE can be connected between the free connectors of the two connecting elements or linking elements KEY. Figure 11In this context, CONTROLLER1 corresponds to the first device 1 as described above, and CONTROLLER2 corresponds to the second device 1a as described above. Figure 11 In this context, each connecting element or connecting element 2 is labeled as KEY.

[0089] like Figure 12 As shown, the two devices CONTROLLER1 and CONTROLLER2 can also be connected remotely using a kit according to the invention, comprising a single connecting element or a connecting element KEY. Figure 12 In this context, CONTROLLER1 corresponds to the first device 1 as described above. Figure 12 In this designation, the connecting element or linking element 2 is labeled KEY. In this case, the free connector of the connecting element or linking element KEY must be connected to the connector of the remote device CONTROLLER 2 via a cable. Therefore, preferably, the kit may be provided with a cable configured to connect to the second electrical connector 10 of the connecting element or linking element 2. This solution can be used, for example, when the remote control device 2 is of a known type and therefore does not have the electrical connection pads characteristic of devices according to the kit of the invention. In other words, in Figure 12 In this designation, CONTROLLER2 identifies a known type of electrical device, which differs from the second device 1a described above in that it does not include a second electrical pad. Therefore, it can be understood that the kit according to the invention is fully compatible with known electrical devices, even if the known electrical devices do not have electrical connection pads not covered by the outer housing of the device, thus preventing contact with exposed connectors of connecting elements or linking elements.

[0090] Reference Figure 13 According to an embodiment of the kit, the rigid body 14 is provided with an irreversible connecting device 17, and the outer housing 12 of the first device 1 is provided with an irreversible connecting seat 18. Preferably, the irreversible connecting device 17 is formed on a first side of the rigid body 14. That is, the rigid body 14 also defines an irreversible connecting device 17 on its first side. Preferably, the irreversible connecting seat 18 is formed on a first side surface 13 of the outer housing 12 of the first device 1. The irreversible connecting device 17 and the irreversible connecting seat 18 are configured to achieve an irreversible connection with each other. Preferably, the irreversible connecting device 17 is configured to snap into the irreversible connecting seat 18, thereby achieving an irreversible connection. Basically, the second protrusion and / or groove 7 and the first groove and / or protrusion 5 are configured to engage irreversibly with each other by means of the irreversible connecting device 17, thereby configuring the first device 1 and the connecting element or connecting element 2 to be irreversibly connected to each other.

[0091] As an alternative to the embodiment just described, the rigid body 14 is provided with an irreversible connecting device 17 on its second side, and the outer housing of the second device 1a is provided with an irreversible connecting seat 18. In other words, the irreversible connecting device 17 is instead formed on the second side of the rigid body 14. The rigid body defines the irreversible connecting device 17 on its second side. Therefore, in this case, the irreversible connecting seat 18 is formed on the second side surface of the outer housing of the second device 1a. The irreversible connecting device 17 and the irreversible connecting seat 18 are configured to achieve an irreversible connection between them. Preferably, the irreversible connecting device 17 is configured to snap into the irreversible connecting seat 18, thereby achieving an irreversible connection between them. Basically, the fourth groove and / or protrusion 16 and the third protrusion and / or groove 11 are configured to be irreversibly engaged with each other by the irreversible connecting device 17 and the irreversible connecting seat 18, thereby enabling the connecting element or connecting element 2 to engage with the second device 1b in an irreversible manner.

[0092] Alternatively, the rigid body 14 is provided with irreversible connecting devices 17 on both the first and second sides, and the outer housing of the first device 1 is provided with a first irreversible connecting seat portion 18, and the outer housing of the second device 1a is provided with a second irreversible connecting seat portion. In other words, the irreversible connecting devices 17 are formed on the first and second sides of the rigid body 14. According to this alternative embodiment, the irreversible connecting device 17 provided on the first side of the rigid body 14 is configured to engage with the first irreversible connecting seat portion 18, and the irreversible connecting device 17 provided on the second side of the rigid body 14 is configured to engage with the second irreversible connecting seat portion, thereby achieving an irreversible connection between them.

[0093] If the rigid body 12 is provided with an irreversible connecting device 17, and the first device 1 and / or the second device 1b are respectively provided with corresponding irreversible connecting seats, then the irreversible connecting device 17 more preferably includes at least one protruding element, such as a toothed structure. Even more preferably, the at least one protruding element is configured to be deformed or retracted when the connecting element or connecting element 2 is inserted in the insertion direction, and to be undeformed or extended. In the undeformed or extended configuration, the protruding element engages with the corresponding irreversible connecting seat 18 to prevent its pull-out or removal relative to the irreversible connecting seat 18, especially in the disengagement direction opposite to the insertion direction of the rigid body 14.

Claims

1. A kit, the kit comprising: At least one first device (1), the at least one first device comprising: - A support (41) having defined first electrical lines and first electrical pads (4), each of the first electrical lines being connected to a corresponding electrical pad (4) in the first electrical pads, wherein the first electrical lines include data lines intended for transmitting digital data signals. - A microcontroller, which is mounted on the support (41) and has a connector for connection to the data line. - An outer housing (12) that encloses the support (41) to expose the first electrical pad (4), the outer housing (12) defining a first groove and / or protrusion (5). At least one connecting element (2) for connecting the first device (1) to the second device (1a), wherein the connecting element (2) has: - A rigid body, the rigid body defining a second protrusion and / or groove (7) on a first side, the second protrusion and / or groove being complementary to the first groove and / or protrusion (5), and - An electrical busbar (8) terminates at a first end at a first electrical connector (9) exposed from the first side and at a second end opposite to the first end at a second electrical connector (10) exposed from the second side opposite to the first side, such that when the connecting element (2) is installed using a second protrusion and / or groove (7) engaging with the first groove and / or protrusion (5) of the first device (1), the exposed first electrical connector (9) of the electrical busbar (8) contacts the first electrical pad (4), thereby establishing electrical continuity between the electrical lines of the busbar (8) and the first electrical lines of the first device (1).

2. The kit according to claim 1, wherein, The rigid body (14) is shaped to have a central plane, wherein the first side and the second side are opposite to the central plane, wherein the electrical busbar (8) is anchored to the rigid body (14) with the exposed first electrical connector (9) facing the first side and the exposed second electrical connector (10) facing the second side.

3. The kit according to claim 2, wherein the electrical busbar (8) is embedded in the rigid body (14).

4. The kit according to claim 2, wherein, The electrical busbar (8) is removably anchored to the rigid body (14).

5. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first electrical line includes the power supply line of the first device (1), which is connected to the connector of the electrical plug.

6. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The outer housing (12) of the first device (1) defines a first flat resting surface (3) for resting against a wall or DIN rail, the first flat resting surface (3) exposing the first electrical pad (4), and the outer housing (12) of the first device (1) defines a first groove and / or protrusion (5) extending on a first side surface (13) of the first device (1), wherein the rigid body (14) defines a flat bottom surface (6) such that when the rigid body (14) of the connecting element (2) engages with the first groove and / or protrusion (5) and the exposed first electrical connector (9) contacts the first electrical pad (4), the flat bottom surface (6) of the rigid body (14) is coplanar with the first flat resting surface (3) of the first device (1).

7. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The first device (1) includes: - At least one switching device, said at least one switching device being mounted on the support (41) and connected to the microcontroller (41) for being driven by the microcontroller. - At least one sensor, which is mounted on the support (41) and connected to the microcontroller to provide the microcontroller with a signal related to the measured quantity.

8. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The rigid body (14) has a third protrusion and / or groove (11) on the second side, the third protrusion and / or groove being arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically with respect to the second protrusion and / or groove (7).

9. The kit of claim 8, wherein the kit includes a second device (1b), the second device comprising: - A second support body, on which second electrical lines and second electrical pads are defined, each of the second electrical lines being connected to a corresponding electrical pad in the second electrical pads, wherein the second electrical lines include second data lines intended for transmitting digital data signals. - A second microcontroller, which is mounted on the second support and has a second connector for connection to the second data line. - At least a second switching device, which is mounted on the second support and connected to the second microcontroller so as to be driven by the second microcontroller. - At least a second sensor, which is mounted on the second support and connected to the second microcontroller, to provide the second microcontroller with a signal related to the measured quantity. - A second outer housing (15) encloses the second support body, exposing the second electrical pad, the second outer housing (15) defining a fourth groove and / or protrusion (16) that is complementary to the third protrusion and / or groove (11).

10. The kit according to claims 8 and 9, wherein, The outer housing (15) of the second device defines a second flat resting surface for resting against a wall or DIN rail, the second flat resting surface exposing the second electrical pad, and the outer housing (15) of the second device defines the fourth groove and / or protrusion (16) formed on the second side surface of the second device, such that when the rigid body (14) of the connecting element (2) engages with the first groove and / or protrusion (5) and the fourth groove and / or protrusion (16) and when the exposed first electrical connector (9) and the second electrical connector (10) contact the first electrical pad and the second electrical pad respectively, the flat bottom surface (6) of the rigid body (14) is coplanar with the first flat resting surface (3) and the second flat resting surface.

11. The kit according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, The second electrical circuit includes a power supply line for the second device (1b), which is connected to the power supply pad of the second electrical pad.

12. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The outer housing (12) of the first device (1) defines a first flat surface (3) for resting against a wall or DIN rail, wherein, in use, the first flat resting surface (3) faces the back side of the first device (1), the back side of the first device (1) is opposite to the use side of the first device (1), and wherein the first groove and / or protrusion (5) and the second protrusion and / or groove (7) are configured to be able to insert into each other in an insertion direction from the back side to the use side.

13. The kit according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein, The second protrusion and / or groove (7) and the first groove and / or protrusion (5) are configured to slide reversibly within each other, such that the first device (1) and the connecting element (2) are configured to reversibly connect / disconnect with each other.

14. The kit according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein, The second protrusion and / or groove (7) and the first groove and / or protrusion (5) are configured to engage with each other in an irreversible manner, such that the first device (1) and the connecting element (2) are configured to be connected to each other in an irreversible manner.

15. The kit according to any of the preceding claims in conjunction with claim 9, wherein, The rigid body (14) is provided with an irreversible connecting device (17) on the second side, and the outer housing of the second device (1a) is provided with an irreversible connecting seat (18), wherein the irreversible connecting device (17) is configured to achieve mutual connection in an irreversible manner.

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