Assembly of connectors for an aircraft

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector for transmitting an electrical power signal on an electrical power line (210), the electrical connector comprising an electrical contact configured to be connected to the electrical power line (210) and an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to an optical diagnosis line (103). The invention further relates to an electrical connection system (100) comprising an assembly of electrical connectors (1a, 1b). The invention also relates to an electrical connection network for an aircraft, the electrical connection network comprising the electrical connection system (100).

Description

[0001] DESCRIPTION

[0002] TITLE: Aircraft Connector Kit

[0003] Technical field of the invention

[0004] The invention relates to an electrical connector comprising an electrical contact and an optical contact. The invention further relates to an electrical connection system comprising the electrical connector and intended for use in an aircraft. The invention relates in particular to the transmission of high-power electrical signals on board aircraft, notably for electric or hybrid aircraft propulsion.

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Climate change is a major concern for many legislative and regulatory bodies worldwide. Indeed, various restrictions on carbon emissions have been, are being, or will be adopted by different countries. In particular, an ambitious standard applies to both new types of aircraft and those already in operation, requiring the implementation of technological solutions to bring them into compliance with current regulations. Civil aviation has been actively working for several years now to contribute to the fight against climate change.

[0007] Technological research efforts have already led to very significant improvements in the environmental performance of aircraft. The Applicant takes into account the factors impacting all phases of design and development in order to obtain less energy-intensive and more environmentally friendly aeronautical components and products whose integration and use in civil aviation have moderate environmental consequences, with the aim of improving aircraft energy efficiency.

[0008] This sustained research and development work focuses in particular on new generations of hybrid thermal and electric aircraft engines. The Applicant's objective is, among other things, to develop aircraft incorporating a high-power electrical generation system. This would increase the proportion of electrical equipment on board in order to reduce fuel consumption.

[0009] Electrification and electric hybridization of the propulsion systems of next-generation aircraft are necessary developments to meet increasing demands for sustainability and energy efficiency. These technologies require significant electrical power to generate the thrust needed for takeoff and flight. By integrating electric or hybrid motors, aircraft can benefit from a significant reduction in carbon emissions, noise levels, and improved energy performance. These advancements are essential for meeting increasingly stringent environmental regulations and ensuring the sustainable growth of the aerospace industry.

[0010] All types of aircraft can benefit from these technologies, whether they are vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), short takeoff and landing (STOL), or conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft. This includes commercial airliners, which could see a reduction in operating costs thanks to lower fuel consumption, as well as military aircraft, helicopters, and drones, which could benefit from improved stealth and operational capabilities thanks to reduced noise and thermal signatures.

[0011] Generally, high electrical power is obtained by combining large currents with high voltages at high frequencies. For example, the topics currently being studied for aeronautical applications feature direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), or pulse-width modulation (PWM) voltage values ​​between 230V and 3000V with current values ​​between 100A and 1000A. For these applications, the electrical frequency for AC and pulse-width modulation is between 400Hz and 3000Hz.

[0012] In an aircraft, the electrical wiring interconnection system (EWIS) is the network that carries electrical power and distributes it among the numerous electrical components such as generators, batteries, power electronics, and electric motors located throughout the aircraft. The EWIS comprises a set of electrical harnesses made up of cables equipped with connectors at their ends to link them together or to connect them to the equipment. The EWIS must be capable of carrying high currents and voltages under optimal safety conditions for operators and other surrounding systems, throughout all phases of the aircraft's lifecycle (mission, maintenance, repair, testing, etc.).

[0013] In many sectors, such as industry, land transport, and energy, connectors are equipped with a safety feature called a safety loop (SL or interlock). This safety feature is implemented by a detection circuit that detects the connected or disconnected state of two connectors, for example, and transmits this connection information to the control system connected to them. The connection information is then transmitted by the detection circuit to the electronic control circuits, which in turn control circuitry within the system's electrical equipment, thus cutting off the power supply to the electrical signal flowing through the connectors.

[0014] For example, when the detection circuit is closed, this means that the connectors are coupled and, therefore, powering up the power link is possible.

[0015] Conversely, if the detection circuit is open, this means that the connectors are disconnected, and that a power-off of the power link must take place.

[0016] During the disconnection maneuver of the connectors, the detection circuit opens and the main power supply is cut off before the power contacts are disengaged and accessible to operators.

[0017] The detection circuit therefore prevents the disconnection of live connectors, thus ensuring protection of people against the risks of electric shock / electrocution, and protection of the connector and equipment against series electric arc during unlocking, as well as protection against a short circuit during the operation.

[0018] The prior art detection circuit comprises a low-power signaling electrical link with a bidirectional path through the electrical connectors. Upon disconnection, the contacts of the detection circuit separate from the connectors before the power contacts are disengaged. Opening the detection circuit results in the power supply being cut off.

[0019] However, the problem with these existing solutions is the coexistence, in the same connector, of low-power and high-power signals operating at high DC, AC, or pulse-width modulation voltages. This coexistence of low-power and high-power signals makes it impossible to comply with signal segregation rules.

[0020] Furthermore, existing solutions present the risk of high-power signal leakage from the power link to the low-power signal circuit in the event of a short circuit at the connector. This can lead to disruption of the low-power signal network, damage to electronic control equipment not designed to withstand high voltages, and danger to operators.

[0021] The detection circuit may also be subject to electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by the power link during system operation. Summary of the invention

[0022] The aim of the present invention is to resolve all or part of the disadvantages listed above.

[0023] To this end, the invention relates to an electrical connector intended for the transmission of a power electrical signal over a power line, the electrical connector comprising:

[0024] - an electrical contact configured to be connected to the power line and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration,

[0025] - an optical contact configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line, and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector in which the electrical contact is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector, the optical contact being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration.

[0026] Advantageously, the electrical connector allows for the reliable detection of a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with a complementary electrical connector and makes it possible to overcome electromagnetic disturbances that may result from the coexistence, within the same electrical connector, of low power and high power electrical signals.

[0027] Advantageously, the intermediate configuration allows for the detection of an interruption in an optical connection between the electrical connector and the complementary electrical connector so as to allow for the power line to be switched off in order to inform a higher-order system connected to the power line of the opening of the power line in order, for example, to protect the operator who is handling the electrical connector.

[0028] The electrical connector may further have the following characteristic. According to one characteristic, said electrical connector is configured to allow, within said electrical connector, the simultaneous flow of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact and the power electrical signal in the electrical contact.

[0029] Advantageously, the simultaneous circulation of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact and the power electrical signal in the electrical contact makes it possible to verify the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with a complementary electrical connector in order to detect the opening of the power electrical line in order to, among other things, protect the equipment of the electrical chain; monitor the electrical connection network, and protect an operator from a risk of electrocution while freeing oneself from potential electromagnetic disturbances within the electrical connector.

[0030] The invention further relates to an electrical connection system comprising:

[0031] - a set of connectors comprising: a primary electrical connector as described above, and a secondary electrical connector as described above, the secondary electrical connector being complementary to the primary electrical connector,

[0032] - a power module electrically connected to the connector assembly and configured to generate a power electrical signal,

[0033] - a control module connected to the power module and configured to act on the power module based on a diagnostic optical signal intended to allow verification of the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector with the optical contact of the secondary electrical connector,

[0034] - an optical diagnostic line linking the control module to the optical contact of the primary electrical connector and configured to allow the flow of the optical diagnostic signal.

[0035] The electrical connection system may have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0036] According to one characteristic, the diagnostic optical line is an optical fiber and the diagnostic optical signal is a light signal.

[0037] Advantageously, optical fiber allows for fast and reliable transmission of the optical diagnostic signal, and offers reduced maintenance costs compared to state-of-the-art solutions that rely on an electrical diagnostic signal.

[0038] Advantageously, optical fiber is insensitive to electrical power signals and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

[0039] Optical fiber offers the advantage of adding supplementary functions such as a visual indicator light for an operator or temperature measurement of the electrical connector at the contact point. Using optical fiber to provide the safety loop (or interlock) function eliminates the problems of signal segregation between the detection and power signals, electromagnetic interference (EMI) affecting the diagnostic signal from the power signal, damage to electrical equipment in the event of a short circuit, and the risk of electric shock or electrocution for operators in the event of a short circuit.

[0040] Advantageously, it is possible to monitor several electrical connectors, including electrical connectors cooperating with each other, with a single optical fiber.

[0041] Optical fiber allows for real-time measurement of the temperature of the electrical contact of the electrical connector and enables the detection of thermal runaway, which is generally the cause of problems on power electrical links, particularly due to a phenomenon of fretting corrosion of the electrical contact.

[0042] Optical fiber allows for the sharing or pooling of the optoelectronic conversion device with other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system. For example, pooling would be possible for the temperature measurement function via the Bragg analyzer or other embedded systems found in certain aircraft programs.

[0043] According to one characteristic, the electrical connection system further includes: - an optoelectronic conversion device connected on one side to the optical diagnostic line and on the other side to the control module, and configured to generate control information for the control module based on the optical diagnostic signal, and to generate the optical diagnostic signal based on the electrical control signal.

[0044] Advantageously, integrating an optoelectronic conversion device between the diagnostic optical line and the control module significantly improves the system's accuracy, responsiveness, and reliability. The rapid conversion of optical signals to electrical signals and vice versa enables near-instantaneous transmission of diagnostic and control information. This enhances the control system's responsiveness, allowing for faster adjustments and responses to changing electrical connection conditions.

[0045] According to one characteristic, the diagnostic optical line is connected to a temperature sensor, preferably a Bragg or Brillouin sensor, configured to measure the temperature of at least one of the two electrical connectors (primary and secondary) and / or the temperature of the electrical contact. Advantageously, the temperature sensor allows monitoring of the electrical connector temperature and / or the electrical contact temperature to prevent overheating of the electrical connector and thus improve the service life of the electrical connection system.

[0046] Advantageously, the Bragg or Brillouin sensor offers high accuracy, robustness, and high resolution in temperature measurement. The Bragg or Brillouin sensor also allows for temperature measurement at various points along the diagnostic optical line.

[0047] According to one characteristic, the diagnostic optical line is connected to an indication component configured to transmit an indication signal, and at least one of the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector includes an opening configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system.

[0048] Advantageously, the indicator component allows for a simple and quick check of whether the electrical connection system is functioning normally or not and detects an interruption in the transmission of the diagnostic optical signal while indicating a fault such as arcing, friction or wear affecting the electrical line.

[0049] According to one feature, the secondary electrical connector includes a reflector configured to reflect the diagnostic optical signal back into the diagnostic optical line.

[0050] Advantageously, the reflector allows for a single optical diagnostic line that can be used for bidirectional routing of the optical diagnostic signal.

[0051] According to one characteristic, the diagnostic optical line includes:

[0052] - a first optical channel configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device to the secondary electrical connector, and

[0053] - a second optical channel, different from the first optical channel, and configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector to the optoelectronic conversion device, the first optical channel and the second optical channel being linked together in such a way as to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal in the first optical channel and the second optical channel.

[0054] Advantageously, using two separate optical channels for transmitting the diagnostic optical signal increases the robustness of the electrical connection system by reducing the risk of failure and optical losses due to reflection of the diagnostic optical signal. Furthermore, the electrical connection system, comprising the first and second optical channels, integrates easily with existing aeronautical systems, reducing implementation costs and ensuring adaptability to existing aeronautical systems.

[0055] According to one characteristic, the electrical connection system includes a portion of electrical line disposed between the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector, said portion of electrical line being provided with an electrical connector as described above at each end of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector.

[0056] Advantageously, inserting a portion of line between the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector allows the electrical connection system to be extended spatially while retaining the diagnostic function which offers safety against a risk of electrocution, for example.

[0057] Brief description of the figures

[0058] The invention will be described with reference to the following figures, which are given for illustrative purposes only and are not reproduced to scale.

[0059] [Fig.1] Figure 1 is a front view of an electrical connector according to the invention.

[0060] [Fig.2] Figure 2 presents a first embodiment of an electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0061] [Fig.3] Figure 3 presents a second embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to a temperature sensor, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0062] [Fig.4] Figure 4 presents a third embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to an indication component, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0063] [Fig.5] Figure 5 presents a fourth embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to an indication component and a temperature sensor, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0064] [Fig. 6] Figure 6 shows a fifth embodiment of the electrical connection system in which the diagnostic optical line comprises a first optical channel and a second optical channel. [Fig. 7] Figure 7 shows a sixth embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising a portion of the electrical line disposed between the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector of the connector assembly.

[0065] [Fig.8] Figure 8 presents a seventh embodiment of the electrical connection system in which the optoelectronic conversion device is common to the electrical connection system and to other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system.

[0066] [Fig.9] Figure 9 presents an eighth embodiment of the electrical connection system in which the diagnostic optical line is connected to two temperature sensors, one of which measures the temperature of the power electrical line and the other measures the temperature of the power electrical contact.

[0067] Features and benefits will emerge from the detailed description that follows and which is made with reference to the figures listed above.

[0068] Detailed description

[0069] The invention relates primarily to an electrical connector 1 intended for the transmission of a power electrical signal on a power electrical line 210. An example of the electrical connector 1 is shown in Figure 1.

[0070] Electrical connector 1 includes an electrical contact 10 configured to be connected to the power line 210. Electrical contact 10 is also configured to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of electrical connector 1 with the complementary electrical connector.

[0071] The electrical contact 10 is configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration.

[0072] The electrical connector 1 also includes an optical contact 11 configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line 103, and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration.

[0073] The electrical contact 10 may be in the form of a metal pin and may be made of copper or a copper alloy for good electrical conductivity. The electrical contact 10 may have a protective coating, for example, a layer of gold or silver. The optical contact 11 may be in the form of a tube, notably made of ceramic or metal. The optical contact 11 serves to guide the diagnostic optical line 103 into the electrical connector 1. The optical contact 11 may be bonded to one end of the diagnostic optical line 103. The optical contact 11 may be assembled in the electrical connector 1 or the complementary electrical connector in the same way as the electrical contact 10. The optical contact 11 may have a guide tube to align the ends of two optical contacts to be connected.The two optical contacts to be connected can cooperate and can be held together by a spring to ensure transmission of the optical signal.

[0074] Electrical connector 1 can include multiple electrical contacts and multiple optical contacts.

[0075] Advantageously, electrical connector 1 allows reliable detection of a cooperation configuration of electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector and eliminates electromagnetic disturbances that may result from the coexistence, within the same electrical connector, of low power and high power electrical signals.

[0076] The connector may have a housing as shown in Figure 1, made of plastic or metal. The housing may be circular, rectangular, or another shape. The housing provides protection for the electrical contact 10 and the optical contact 11, and also serves to retain the electrical connector 1 and the complementary electrical connector by allowing them to be connected and disconnected.

[0077] Electrical contact 10 can cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of electrical connector 1 with the complementary electrical connector, while optical contact 11 is separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration. The optical contacts can therefore separate before the electrical contacts separate, so that when the optical signal is lost, electrical contact 10 can still cooperate with the complementary electrical contact. The power line 210 remains operational, and the electrical connection system 100 can remain protected by the housing of electrical connector 1 while awaiting a disconnection command from a control module 102.

[0078] Advantageously, the intermediate configuration allows for the detection of an interruption in the communication between electrical connector 1 and the complementary electrical connector, thus enabling the power line 210 to be de-energized in order to protect an operator handling electrical connector 1 from the risk of electrocution, for example. Electrical connector 1 can allow, within said electrical connector 1, the simultaneous flow of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact 11 and the power electrical signal in the electrical contact 10.

[0079] Advantageously, the simultaneous circulation of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact 11 and the electrical power signal in the electrical contact makes it possible to verify the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector in order to protect an operator from a risk of electrocution while eliminating potential electromagnetic disturbances within the electrical connector 1.

[0080] The invention relates secondly to a set of electrical connectors 1a, 1b which are shown in figures 2 to 9.

[0081] The electrical connector assembly 1a, 1b comprises a primary electrical connector 1a as described above and a secondary electrical connector 1b as described above. The secondary electrical connector 1b is complementary to the primary electrical connector 1a; in other words, the secondary electrical connector 1b is capable of cooperating with the primary electrical connector 1a, as can be seen in Figures 2 to 9.

[0082] Thirdly, the invention relates to an electrical connection system 100. Several embodiments of this electrical connection system 100 are shown in figures 2 to 9.

[0083] The electrical connection system 100 comprises the set of connectors 1a, 1b as described above. In Figures 2 to 9, the primary electrical connector 1a cooperates with the secondary electrical connector 1b; in other words, connectors 1a and 1b are in a cooperative configuration.

[0084] The connection system 100 also includes a power module 101 electrically connected to the connector set 1a, 1b. The power module 101 is configured to generate a power electrical signal. The power module 101 is, for example, a power converter or a switched-mode power supply, specifically a DC / DC or DC / AC converter, or another type of power converter. The power module 101 can also be a distribution module, a generator, or a battery equipped with a power interruption system.

[0085] The connection system 100 also includes a control module 102 connected to the power module 101. The control module 102 is configured to act on the power module 101 based on a diagnostic optical signal intended to allow verification of the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector 1a with the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b. The control module 102 can, for example, be a microprocessor capable of providing a control function for the power module 101.

[0086] For example, if the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b are in a disconnected configuration, then the control module 102 can send a command to the power module 101 to stop supplying the power signal via the power line. The power line 210 can be a power cable or a busbar.

[0087] The connection system 100 also includes a diagnostic optical line 103 linking the control module to the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector 1a and configured to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal.

[0088] The diagnostic optical line 103 can be an optical fiber. The diagnostic optical signal can be a light signal.

[0089] Advantageously, optical fiber allows for fast and reliable transmission of the optical diagnostic signal, and offers reduced maintenance costs compared to state-of-the-art solutions that rely on an electrical diagnostic signal.

[0090] The use of the optical contact 11 to detect a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector ensures galvanic isolation between the power electrical line and the diagnostic optical line 103 because the optical fiber is insensitive to the electrical signal and cannot transmit said electrical signal because said optical fiber is made of an insulating material.

[0091] The 100 connection system can be presented as a kit including all the elements mentioned above which are included in the 100 connection system.

[0092] In the embodiments shown in figures 2 to 9, the electrical connection system 100 includes an optoelectronic conversion device 104 connected on one side to the diagnostic optical line 103 and on the other side to the control module 102.

[0093] The optoelectronic conversion device 104 can generate control information for the control module 102 based on the diagnostic optical signal or the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal received by the optoelectronic conversion device 104. The optoelectronic conversion device 104 can also generate the diagnostic optical signal based on the electrical control signal generated by the control module 102.

[0094] Advantageously, integrating an optoelectronic conversion device 104 between the diagnostic optical line 103 and the control module 102 significantly improves the system's accuracy, responsiveness, and reliability. The rapid conversion of optical signals into electrical signals and vice versa enables near-instantaneous transmission of diagnostic and control information. This enhances the responsiveness of the control system, allowing for faster adjustments and responses to changing conditions in the electrical connection system 100.

[0095] In the embodiment shown in Figure 2, the power module 101 supplies a power signal to the primary electrical connector 1a via the power cable 210. The power cable 210 is sized to allow the transmission of the power signal from the power module 101 to the primary electrical connector 1a. The primary electrical connector 1a cooperates with the secondary electrical connector 1b in the cooperative configuration. That is, the electrical contact 10 of the primary electrical connector 1a is connected to the electrical contact 10 of the secondary electrical connector 1b, and the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector 1a is connected to the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b.The electrical power signal then flows from the power module 101 through the electrical power link 210 via connectors 1a, 1b and to the load 220 of the electrical system 100 via another electrical power link which connects the secondary electrical connector 1b to the load 220. The load 220 can for example be electrical equipment on board the aircraft.

[0096] In the embodiment of Figure 2, the optoelectronic conversion device 104, connected on one side to the diagnostic optical line 103 and on the other side to the control module 102, is a time-domain optical reflectometer (OTDR). The time-domain optical reflectometer outputs the diagnostic optical signal from the control signal generated by the control module 102. The diagnostic optical signal travels through the diagnostic optical line 103 and is reflected by a reflector (not shown in the figures) included in the secondary electrical connector 1b.

[0097] Advantageously, the reflector allows a single optical diagnostic line 103 to be used for bidirectional routing of the optical diagnostic signal, thus reducing the size and mass of the electrical connection system 100.

[0098] The time-domain optical reflectometer (TDR) detects all or part of the optical signal reflected by the reflector and provides information about the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal to an operator. As long as the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal is detected by the TDR, the electrical connectors 1a and 1b are in a cooperative configuration, and the power module continues to supply the power signal. If the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector 1a separates from the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b, the diagnostic optical signal is no longer reflected by the reflector, and the TDR no longer detects the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal.The time-domain optical reflectometer (TDO) then indicates to an operator the absence of reflection of the diagnostic optical signal, and the operator can act on the control module 102 so that the control module 102 acts on the power module 101, causing the power module 101 to cease transmitting the electrical power signal. The flow of the electrical power signal is then interrupted. Alternatively, the TDO directly communicates the absence of perceived reflection of the diagnostic optical signal to the control module 102. The control module 102 then acts on the power module 101, causing the power module 101 to cease generating the electrical power signal. No electrical power signal is then transmitted to the load 220.

[0099] The operation of the embodiment shown in Figure 3 is the same as that of Figure 2, with two differences: first, the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to a temperature sensor 105, in particular a temperature sensor integrated into the diagnostic optical line 103, which is configured to measure the temperature of the secondary electrical connector 1b; second, the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is an optical analyzer. In the embodiment shown in Figure 3, the temperature sensor, located in the secondary electrical connector 1b, modifies the optical properties of the diagnostic optical signal, in particular the light signal, according to the detected temperature, such as the wavelength or the light intensity.The temperature-modulated optical diagnostic signal travels along the optical diagnostic line 103 to the optical analyzer, which interprets the variations in the received optical diagnostic signal to determine the exact temperature measured by the temperature sensor 105. The optical analyzer then indicates whether there is overheating of the secondary electrical connector 1b, and this information is communicated to the control module 102, which then acts on the power module 101 to interrupt the generation of the power electrical signal. In other words, the optical diagnostic signal can continuously represent the temperature of the secondary electrical connector 1b, either recorded or provided in real time to an operator.From a certain heating value, a command to cut off the electrical current can be sent by the control module 102 to the power module 101 to avoid a thermal runaway of the secondary electrical connector 1 b which could lead to the destruction of said secondary electrical connector 1 b.

[0100] Advantageously, the temperature sensor 105 allows monitoring of the temperature of the electrical connector 1 in order to prevent overheating of the electrical connector 1 and thus improves the service life of the electrical connection system 100.

[0101] The temperature sensor 105 can be a Bragg sensor, in particular a Bragg sensor integrated into the optical fiber, or a Brillouin sensor for example.

[0102] Advantageously, the Bragg sensor or Brillouin sensor offers high accuracy, robustness, and high resolution in temperature measurement. The operation of the embodiment shown in Figure 4 is the same as that of Figure 2, but in this embodiment, the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to an indicator component 106, which is configured to transmit an indicator signal. Advantageously, the indicator component 106 allows for a simple and quick verification of whether the electrical connection system 100 is functioning normally.

[0103] The indication component 106 can for example be an optical lens such as a diopter lens and the diopter lens can be coupled to a Y coupler or differentiator.

[0104] The indication signal can be a red light beam which has a central wavelength of 800 nanometers with a margin of error of plus or minus 40 nanometers.

[0105] The Y-coupler splits the diagnostic optical signal into two optical paths: a first optical path leading to the diopter lens, and a second optical path leading to the time-domain reflectometer (TDR). The diopter lens focuses the diagnostic optical signal to visually indicate that the system is operational. In this case, the secondary electrical connector 1b includes an aperture 107 to allow an operator to perceive the diagnostic optical signal outside the secondary electrical connector 1b. The TDR analyzes the reflection of the diagnostic optical system in the diagnostic optical line 103, enabling the detection and localization of faults or breaks in the diagnostic optical line 103, in other words, detecting whether the primary electrical connector 1a is in a cooperative configuration with the secondary electrical connector 1b.If this is not the case, the power module 101 interrupts the generation of the electrical power signal as indicated above.

[0106] Alternatively or in addition, the primary electrical connector 1a may include an opening 107 configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system 100, and the indication component 106 may be disposed within the primary electrical connector 1a. Advantageously, the opening 107 may be arranged in a ring around the primary electrical connector 1a so as to be visible to the operator from all directions.

[0107] The embodiment shown in Figure 5 incorporates the same elements as the embodiments in Figures 3 and 4, namely the diagnostic optical line 103, which is connected to a temperature sensor 105 and an indicator component 106 on one side, and to an optical analyzer on the other. In this case, all the elements have the same role and function in the same way as described previously for the embodiments in Figures 3 and 4.

[0108] In the embodiment of Figure 6, the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b each comprise a first optical contact 11a and a second optical contact 11b distinct from the first optical contact 11a. The diagnostic optical line 103 comprises a first optical channel 108 which is connected to the first optical contact 11a of each of the electrical connectors 1a, 1b and which is configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device 104 to the secondary electrical connector 1b, and a second optical channel 109, distinct from the first optical channel 108, which is connected to the second optical contact 11b of each of the electrical connectors 1a, 1b and which is configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector 1b to the optoelectronic conversion device 104.

[0109] As can be seen in Figure 6, the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109 are connected to each other in such a way as to allow the diagnostic optical signal to circulate in the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109. The first optical contact 11a and the second optical contact 11b of the secondary electrical connector 1b are optically connected, for example by an optical fiber housed in the secondary electrical connector 1b. The optical signal can therefore circulate in the first optical channel 108, then through the first optical contact 11a, then in the optical fiber housed in the secondary electrical connector 1b, then through the second optical contact 11b and finally in the second optical channel 109.

[0110] In the embodiment of Figure 6, the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is an electro-optical transducer. The electro-optical transducer generates a diagnostic optical signal from the electrical control signal, and conversely, from the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal, generates an electrical control signal for the control module 102. If the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b are in an intermediate or separation configuration, then the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal is not detected by the electro-optical transducer, and a signal is sent to the control module 102, which acts on the power module 101 to stop the generation of the electrical power signal.

[0111] Advantageously, using two separate optical channels for transmitting the diagnostic optical signal increases the robustness of the electrical connection system 100 by reducing the risk of failure and optical losses due to reflection of the diagnostic optical signal. Furthermore, the electrical connection system 100, comprising the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109, integrates easily into existing aeronautical systems, reducing implementation costs and facilitating adaptation to existing aeronautical systems.

[0112] In the embodiment of Figure 7, the electrical connection system 100 comprises a portion of electrical line 1c disposed between the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b. The portion of electrical line 1c is provided with an electrical connector as described previously at each end F of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line 1c to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector 1a and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector 1b. In other words, the electrical connector at each end F of the portion of electrical line 1c comprises an optical contact configured to cooperate with the optical contact of the primary electrical connector 1a or the secondary electrical connector 1b, and an electrical contact configured to cooperate with the electrical contact of the primary electrical connector 1a or the secondary electrical connector 1b.

[0113] As can be seen in Figure 7, the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to a temperature sensor 105 disposed in the secondary electrical connector 1b and to a temperature sensor disposed in the portion of the electrical line 1c.

[0114] The diagnostic optical line 103 is also connected to a first indication component 106, such as a diopter lens, disposed in the electrical line portion 1c and to a second indication component 106 disposed in the secondary electrical connector 1b. The electrical line portion 1c and the secondary electrical connector 1b each have an opening that allows the indication signal to be perceived outside the electrical connection system 100. A Y-coupler is used for the branches to the diopter lenses.

[0115] The embodiment of Figure 7 is exactly the same as that of Figure 5, except that one or more portions of electrical line 1c are inserted in the embodiment of Figure 7 between the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b. All the elements function in the same way as in the embodiment of Figure 5.

[0116] Advantageously, inserting a portion of line 1c between the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b allows the electrical connection system 100 to be extended spatially while retaining the diagnostic function which offers safety against a risk of electrocution for example.

[0117] The embodiment of Figure 8 has the same operation as that of Figure 3, with the difference that the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is shared with other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system 100.

[0118] The embodiment shown in Figure 9 operates in the same way as the embodiment shown in Figure 5, with the sole difference that the diagnostic optical link is connected to a temperature sensor positioned in contact with, or as close as possible to, the power line 210. This allows for monitoring the condition of the power line 210. For example, positioning one or more Bragg or Brillouin sensors along the diagnostic optical line 103 makes it possible to measure the temperature of the power line 210 at different points along the line.Furthermore, if the 210 power line is damaged, for example due to an electric arc, or if the 210 power line suffers mechanical damage, then the diagnostic optical signal is disturbed and the optoelectronic conversion device will be able to identify the signal disturbance and transmit the information to the control module 102.

[0119] In all embodiments shown in Figures 2 to 9, the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b can be of circular type as for example from standards EN2997 or EN3645 / MIL-DTL-38999, or rectangular and modular as for example from standard EN4165 or equivalent.

[0120] The diagnostic optical line 103 can be an optical fiber, specifically a single-mode optical fiber with a core diameter of 9 or 10 µm or equivalent. The optoelectronic conversion device can be an electro-optical transducer such as a photodiode or phototransistor, an optical time-domain reflectometer (OTDR), or an optical analyzer for the Bragg or Brillouin grating, depending on the embodiment. The indication component 106 can be a diopter lens coupled to a Y-coupler or differentiator, and the indication signal can be a light beam, for example, red with a center wavelength of 800 nanometers and an error margin of ±40 nanometers. The power connection can be an electrical cable or a busbar.The power module 101 can be a switching power supply or any other equipment capable of providing an electrical power signal, such as a generator or a battery equipped with an electrical current interruption system or an electrical distribution module, and the control module 102 can be a microprocessor.

[0121] The invention relates fourthly to an aircraft electrical connection network comprising the electrical connection system 100 as described above.

[0122] The invention applies mainly to electrical connectors intended for high power applications but also finds application in low power electrical connectors, for example in the case of critical functions which require real-time assurance that the system is operational.

[0123] The invention is not limited to electric or hybrid propulsion; it can be applied to any type of electrical power network or system.

[0124] The invention is not limited to the field of aeronautical transport; it can be used in all areas of land transport (automotive, rail, maritime), in the energy sector, and in the industrial sector.

Claims

1. CLAIMS

1. Electrical connection system (100) comprising: - a set of connectors (1a, 1b) comprising: a primary electrical connector (1, 1a) intended for the transmission of a power electrical signal on a power electrical line (210), the primary electrical connector (1, 1a) comprising: - an electrical contact (10) configured to be connected to the power line (210) and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector (1, 1a) with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact (10) being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration, - an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line (103), and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector (1, 1a) in which the electrical contact (10) is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector (1, 1a) with the complementary electrical connector, the optical contact (11) being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration, and a secondary electrical connector (1,1 b) intended for the transmission of an electrical power signal over a power line, the secondary electrical connector (1, 1 b) comprising:, - an electrical contact (10) configured to be connected to the power line (210) and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector (1, 1b) with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact (10) being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration, - an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line (103), and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a connector complementary electrical in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector (1, 1b) in which the electrical contact (10) is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector (1, 1b) with the complementary electrical connector, the optical contact (11) being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration, the secondary electrical connector (1b) being complementary to the primary electrical connector (1a), - a power module (101) electrically connected to the connector set (1a, 1b) and configured to generate a power electrical signal, - a control module (102) connected to the power module (101) and configured to act on the power module (101) on the basis of a diagnostic optical signal intended to allow verification of the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector (1a) with the optical contact (11) of the secondary electrical connector (1b), - an optical diagnostic line (103) connecting the control module to the optical contact (11) of the primary electrical connector (1a) and configured to allow the flow of the optical diagnostic signal.

2. Electrical connection system (100) according to claim 1 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is an optical fiber and the diagnostic optical signal is a light signal.

3. Electrical connection system (100) according to claim 1 or 2 further comprising: - an optoelectronic conversion device (104) connected on one side to the optical diagnostic line (103) and on the other side to the control module (102), and configured to generate control information for the control module (102) based on the optical diagnostic signal, and to generate the optical diagnostic signal based on the electrical control signal.

4. Electrical connection system (100) according to claim 3 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) comprises: - a first optical channel (108) configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device (104) to the secondary electrical connector (1b), and - a second optical channel (109), different from the first optical channel (108), and configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector (1b) to the optoelectronic conversion device (104), the first optical channel (108) and the second optical channel (109) being connected together so as to allow the diagnostic optical signal to flow in the first optical channel (108) and the second optical channel (109).

5. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 4 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is connected to a temperature sensor (105), preferably a Bragg sensor or a Brillouin sensor, configured to measure a temperature of at least one of the two electrical connectors among the primary electrical connector (1a) and the secondary electrical connector (1b), and / or a temperature of the electrical contact (10).

6. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is connected to an indication component (106) configured to transmit an indication signal, and at least one of the primary electrical connector (1a) and the secondary electrical connector (1b) comprises an opening (107) configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system (100).

7. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 wherein the secondary electrical connector (1b) includes a reflector configured to reflect the diagnostic optical signal into the diagnostic optical line (103).

8. An electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 7 comprising a portion of an electrical line (1c) disposed between the primary electrical connector (1a) and the secondary electrical connector (1b), said portion of an electrical line (1c) being provided with an electrical connector, the electrical connector being intended for the transmission of an electrical power signal on a power line (210), the electrical connector comprising: - an electrical contact (10) configured to be connected to the power line (210) and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact (10) being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration, - an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line (103), and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector in which the electrical contact (10) is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector,the optical contact (11) being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration, at each end (F) of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line (1c) to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector (1a) and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector (1b).

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