ENERGY HARVESTING SYSTEM AND MODULE

Description

1 / 30 “ENERGY HARVESTING SYSTEM AND MODULE” TECHNICAL FIELD

[001] This disclosure refers to an energy harvesting module. HISTORY

[002] An electrical assembly (for example, a switch or fuse) can be mounted on a utility structure (such as, for example, a pole) or recess. SUMMARY

[003] In one aspect, a system includes: a current interruption module including: a first enclosure and a switching device in the first enclosure, the switching device configured to control an electrical connection between a first node of an electrical system and a second node of an electrical system in response to a control signal; and a power harvesting module, including: a control apparatus configured to emit the control signal; a power harvesting apparatus electrically connected to the control apparatus; and a second enclosure that at least partially encloses the power harvesting apparatus and the control apparatus. The power harvesting apparatus is electrically connected to the first node, regardless of the state of the switching device.

[004] Implementations may include one or more of the following features.

[005] The system may also include a connection system configured to releaseably connect the current interruption module to the power harvesting module. The current interruption module may be Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 12 / 61 2 / 30 disconnect from the connection system to provide a visible break during a fault condition, and in these implementations, the energy harvesting device is electrically connected to the first node while the visible break is provided.

[006] The switching device may have an open state and a closed state; and the energy-harvesting apparatus is electrically connected to the first node when the switching device is in the open state and when the switching device is in the closed state. The energy-harvesting apparatus may include one or more voltage-harvesting apparatuses and a current-harvesting apparatus. The current-harvesting apparatus may be configured to detect the rated load current flowing while the switching device is in the closed state and to power the control apparatus based on the detected rated load current. The voltage-harvesting apparatus may include a capacitive network configured to store leakage current while the switching device is in the open state.

[007] The system may also include an electrically insulating support configured to mount the energy harvesting apparatus on a utility structure.

[008] The system may also include a mounting strap configured to wrap around the second enclosure and mount the energy harvesting device onto a utility structure.

[009] The switching device may be a vacuum switch.

[0010] The energy harvesting apparatus may include Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 13 / 61 3 / 30 a first capacitive network and a second capacitive network configured to store leakage current from the first capacitive network and power the control device while the switching device is not conducting current.

[0011] In another aspect, an energy harvesting module includes: an enclosure; a mounting system configured to connect the enclosure to a utility system structure; an electrical input terminal accessible from the exterior of the enclosure, the electrical input terminal configured to connect electrically to a power source; and an energy harvesting apparatus, including: a first capacitive network electrically connected to the electrical input terminal; a second capacitive network configured to receive leakage current from the first capacitive network and store the leakage current as stored energy; and an energy harvesting output configured to provide an electrical signal based on the stored energy. The energy harvesting module also includes an electrical output terminal electrically connected to the second capacitive network.The electrical output terminal is configured to connect electrically to electrical equipment external to the power harvesting module and to provide the electrical signal to the electrical equipment.

[0012] Implementations may include one or more of the following features.

[0013] The electrical signal may include a voltage signal configured to supply power to the electrical equipment.

[0014] The energy harvesting module may also include a connected electronic control device. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 14 / 61 4 / 30 electrically to the second capacitive network, and the electronic control device can be powered by the stored energy and generate a control signal based on the stored energy, and the control signal is the electrical signal supplied to the electrical equipment.

[0015] The first capacitive network may include a capacitor with potting material.

[0016] The mounting system may include a mounting arm configured to secure the enclosure to the utility system frame.

[0017] The mounting system can be configured to attach the enclosure to a cutout.

[0018] The electrical signal may include one or more of: electrical power configured to drive a control of the electrical equipment, electrical power configured to drive a sensor module of the electrical equipment, and electrical power to drive a communication gateway of the electrical equipment.

[0019] Implementations of any of the techniques described herein may include a system, an assembly, a kit for adapting an existing switching device, and / or a method. Details of one or more implementations are presented in the accompanying drawings and in the description below. Other features will be apparent from the description, drawings, and claims. DRAWING DESCRIPTION

[0020] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system that includes a power harvesting module and a current interruption module that is distinct from the power harvesting module. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 15 / 61 5 / 30

[0021] FIGS. 2A and 2B refer to another system that includes the current interruption module of FIG. 1 and an energy harvesting module that is distinct from the current interruption module.

[0022] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a current interruption module.

[0023] FIG. 4A is a block diagram of another system that includes a current interruption module and a power harvesting module that is distinct from the current interruption module.

[0024] FIG. 4B is a schematic of the system in FIG. 4A when the current interruption module is closed.

[0025] FIG. 4C is a schematic of the system in FIG. 4A when the current interruption module is open.

[0026] FIG. 4D is a block diagram of the system in FIG. 4A during a fault condition.

[0027] FIG. 4E is a schematic of an energy harvesting circuit.

[0028] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of an energy harvesting module.

[0029] FIG. 6 is an external perspective view of a system that includes an energy harvesting module and a retention part.

[0030] FIG. 7 is an external perspective view of a system that includes the energy harvesting module mounted in a cutout.

[0031] FIGS. 8A and 8B are cross-sectional perspective views of another system which includes an energy harvesting apparatus and a current interruption module which is distinct from the energy harvesting apparatus. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 16 / 61 6 / 30 DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0032] FIG. 1 is a block diagram of a system 100 that includes a power harvesting module 130 and a current interruption module 140 that is separate from the power harvesting module 130. As discussed below, the power harvesting module 130 provides uninterrupted or continuous power harvesting and reliably powers a control device 134, regardless of the state of the current interruption module 140.

[0033] The current interruption module 140 includes a switching device 150, which is any type of device that has an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the switching device 150 prevents the flow of electric current through a power path 106. In the closed state, the switching device allows the flow of electric current through the power path 106. The power path 106 is an electrically conductive connection between a first node 102 and a second node 103. For example, the first node 102 may be a source of electricity and the second node 103 may be a load, or vice versa. The power path 106 may include, for example, electrical cables, busbars or other resistant electrical conductive elements, electrically conductive contacts, electrically conductive terminals and / or wires. The first node 102 and the second node 103 are any points in an electrical power system 101.The 101 electrical power system can be, for example, an electrical grid, an electrical system, or a multiphase electrical network that supplies electricity to commercial, industrial, and other customers. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 17 / 61 7 / 30 municipal and / or residential. The 101 electrical power system may be a medium-voltage electrical power system. In some implementations, the electrical power system has an operating voltage of, for example, at least 1 kilovolt (kV), up to 34.5 kV, up to 38 kV, or higher than 38 kV. The 101 electrical power system is an alternating current (AC) electrical network and may operate at a fundamental frequency of, for example, 50 or 60 Hertz (Hz).

[0034] The switching device 150 may be, for example, a switch capable of repeatedly opening and closing, like a vacuum switch. The switching device 150 has a voltage and current rating appropriate for the application. For example, the switching device 150 may be rated for use in medium voltage systems. Voltage ratings in the medium voltage range include, for example, voltages between 15kV and 38kV. The switching device 150 may be rated for direct current of, for example, between 5 amperes (A) and 800 A, between 100 A and 600 A, or between 100 and 200 A. The switching device 150 may be capable of interrupting fault currents of, for example, 1kA to 10kA, 1kA to 4kA, 1kA to 7kA or up to 10kA. These voltage and current ratings are given as examples, and the 150 switching device can be configured for other ratings.

[0035] The current interruption module 140 includes an actuating device 152 that opens or closes the switching device 150 in response to a control signal 121. The actuating device 152 may include, for example, a Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 18 / 61 8 / 30 actuator coupled to a moving contact of the switching device 150. The current interruption module 140 also includes an enclosure or body 141 that at least partially encloses the switching device 150 and the actuating apparatus 152.

[0036] The energy harvesting module 130 includes an energy harvesting device 132, a control device 134 that generates the control signal 121 for the drive device 152, and an enclosure 131 that at least partially encloses the energy harvesting device 132 and the control device 134. The enclosure 131 is separate from the enclosure 141. The energy harvesting device 132 is any component or set of components capable of harvesting electrical energy. For example, the energy harvesting device 132 may include a capacitor, a network of capacitive devices, and / or a resistive-capacitive network. The energy harvesting device 132 powers the control device 134. The control device 134 may be, for example, an electronic control system that includes an electronic processor, an electronic memory, and a communication interface. The control device 134 may be a microcontroller.

[0037] The control device 134 has a much lower current and voltage rating than the switching device 150. For example, the control device 134 can operate at voltages of 5V or 12V. The control device 134 receives power from the power-harvesting device 132 via a low-power connection 123 (shown with a dashed line style). The device of Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 19 / 61 9 / 30 control 134 is also electrically connected to the drive unit 152 by means of a low-energy connection 120 (shown with a dashed line style).

[0038] The energy harvesting module 130 is mounted on a structure 110. The structure 110 may be a structure intended for mounting overhead power lines, such as a pole, pillar, or frame. The structure 110 may be an insulating support (such as a cutout) that is mounted on a pole or other sturdy object. In some implementations, the structure 110 is part of an underground distribution system. For example, the structure 110 may be one or more bushings in a cabinet or vault.

[0039] Under normal operating conditions, the current interruption module 140 is mounted on the energy harvesting module 130, and the current interruption module 140 is in parallel with the energy harvesting module 130. When the switching device 150 is in the closed state, the rated current (e.g., 5A to 600A) flows in the energy path 106 and through the switching device 150. The energy harvesting module 130 has a much higher impedance than the closed switching device 150, so almost all the current flows in the energy path 106 from node 102 to node 103 through the closed switching device 150. For example, the energy harvesting module 130 may have an insulation resistance of about 2x10⁵ megaOhm (MΩ) or greater. The energy harvesting module 130 may include a current transformer that detects the current in the energy path 106 and supplies the control device 134 with the detected current.When the switching device 150. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 20 / 61 When node 10 / 30 is in the open state, the rated current does not flow in the energy path 106 or through the switching device 150. However, the energy harvesting device 132 remains electrically connected to node 102, and a leakage current (which may be on the order of milliamperes (mA)) flows to a capacitive network of the energy harvesting module 130. The energy stored in the capacitive network powers the control device 134. Thus, the control device 134 is powered by the energy harvesting device 132, regardless of whether the switching device is in the closed or open state.

[0040] Furthermore, the energy harvesting device 132 harvests energy and supplies the control device 134 during fault conditions and while a visible break is displayed. Under fault conditions, the current interruption module 140 disconnects node 102 from node 103 by opening the switching device 150 and / or disconnecting from the energy harvesting module 130. The energy harvesting module 130 remains connected to node 102. The high impedance of the energy harvesting module 130 maintains the electrical disconnection between nodes 102 and 103, allowing leakage current to flow to the energy harvesting device 132. In this way, the energy harvesting device 132 continues to harvest energy during a fault condition and while a visible break is displayed.

[0041] Although some earlier current interruption systems included energy harvesting mechanisms, these earlier systems did not continue to harvest energy under fault conditions. For example, some earlier suspended cutout-mounted reclosers included a system Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 21 / 61 11 / 30 of an energy pickup mechanism enclosed in a housing with a vacuum breakout device that picks up energy as it flows through the vacuum breakout device. The housing is mounted above in an electrically insulating support (or cutout) and exits the cutout in response to a fault condition. Although this visible indication (or visible break) provides a visual warning that the recloser has opened the energy path, the energy pickup mechanism cannot pick up energy because the energy path is open. Furthermore, although the energy pickup mechanism of these earlier systems may be able to store some energy that was picked up before the fault condition, this previously picked-up energy typically dissipates before the fault resolution, leaving no energy available to drive the recloser on startup. Thus, the recloser is unable to immediately restore current flow in the energy path after the fault clearing.

[0042] On the other hand, the energy harvesting device 132 remains electrically connected to node 102 even when the switching device 150 is open and even when the current interruption module 140 is disconnected from the energy harvesting module 130 in a visible break. In this way, when the system 100 is restarted, energy is available to the control device 134 and the control device 134 can immediately provide the control signal 121 to the drive device 152 to close the switching device 150 and re-establish the electrical connection between nodes 102 and 103. Thus, the system 100 avoids delays that could arise if energy were not available to the device. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 22 / 61 12 / 30 control 134. Furthermore, compared with a current interruption module that includes a power harvesting mechanism and a current interruption mechanism in the same housing, the 140 current interruption module includes fewer parts and can be lighter, easier to manufacture and repair, and less expensive.

[0043] FIGS. 2A and 2B refer to a system 200 that includes the current interruption module 140 and an energy harvesting module 230. The energy harvesting module 230 is mounted on the frame 110 and the current interruption module 140 is mounted on the energy harvesting module 230. The energy harvesting module 230 includes a voltage harvesting module 235, the control apparatus 134 and a current harvesting module 236. The voltage harvesting module 235 and the current harvesting module 236 are electrically connected to the control apparatus 134. The voltage harvesting module 235 includes one or more high or medium voltage capacitive devices 239. The capacitive device 239 may be a medium voltage capacitor that includes a potting material around the capacitive element. The current pickup module 236 includes a current transformer (CT).

[0044] FIG. 2A shows the current flow when the switching device 150 is closed. FIG. 2B shows the current flow when the switching device 150 is open. The switching device 150 is shaded with diagonal lines in FIG. 2B to indicate that the switching device 150 is open. When the switching device 150 is closed (FIG. 2A), the voltage pickup module 235, the control apparatus 134 and the Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 23 / 61 The current-harvesting module 236 forms a high-impedance path in parallel with the closed switching device 150. The rated current flows in the power path 106 from node 102 to node 103 through the switching device 150. The current-harvesting module's current transformer (CT) 236 detects the rated current in the power path 106 and produces an output current that is supplied to the control device 134. In this way, the CT harvests energy from the power path 106 when the switching device 150 is closed.

[0045] FIG. 2B shows the current flow when the switching device 150 is open. The switching device 150 is open in a fault condition and may be open in other conditions. For example, the switching device 150 may be intentionally opened for planned maintenance of nodes 102, 103; the energy pickup module 230; and / or the current interruption module 140. When the switching device 150 is open, no current flows through the switching device 150 and the rated current does not flow from node 102 to node 103. The voltage pickup module 235 remains electrically connected to the source 102. A leakage current flows through the capacitive device 239 and charges a low-voltage capacitive network 293. The energy stored in the low-voltage capacitive network 293 powers the control apparatus 134.No nominal current flows between switching device 150 and node 103, and the current pickup module CT 236 does not pick up power from power path 106.

[0046] Thus, energy is captured and the control device 134 is powered when the switching device Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 24 / 61 14 / 30 150 is closed and when the switching device 150 is open. The energy harvesting module 230 can be implemented in other ways. For example, the energy harvesting module 230 can be implemented without the current harvesting module 236. In these implementations, the control apparatus 134 is powered by energy stored in the capacitor(s) of the voltage harvesting module 235. In another example, the energy harvesting module 230 can be implemented as a stand-alone device, as shown in FIG. 5.

[0047] FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view of a current interruption module 340. The current interruption module 340 is an example implementation of the current interruption module 140 (FIGS. 1, 2A and 2B).

[0048] The current interruption module 340 includes a connection interface 364 that is configured to electrically and mechanically connect the current interruption module 340 to a power harvesting module, such as the power harvesting module 130 or 230. The current interruption module 340 also includes a vacuum switch 350 that is housed within an enclosure 341. The vacuum switch 350 includes a stationary contact 362a and a moving contact 362b enclosed in a vacuum bottle 361. The stationary contact 362a is at the end of a stationary rod 365a, and the moving contact 362b is at the end of a moving rod 365b. The stationary rod 365a is electrically connected to the connection interface 364. The stationary contact 362a, the stationary rod 365a, the moving contact 362b, and the moving rod 365b are made of an electrically conductive material, such as, for example, a Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 25 / 61 15 / 30 metal or a metal alloy. Examples of materials that can be used as stationary contact 362a, stationary rod 365a, moving contact 362b and moving rod 365b include, without limitation, tin, steel, brass, gold, copper, silver and combinations of such materials.

[0049] The current interruption module 340 also includes an actuating device 352 that controls the state of the vacuum switch 350. The actuating device 352 is any type of device capable of moving the movable rod 365b along a path 344. For example, the actuating device 352 may be an actuator. In implementations where the actuating device 352 is an actuator, the actuator may be, for example, an electromagnetic actuator or a mechanical actuator.

[0050] The drive device 352 is electrically connected to a low-energy connection 320 that carries a control signal from an external control system (such as the control signal 121 from the control device 134). The control signal includes information that controls the drive device 352. For example, the control signal may include a command that causes the drive device 352 to close the vacuum switch 350. The drive device 352 is mechanically coupled to the movable rod 365b by means of an operating rod 367. In the example of FIG. 3. The stationary contact 362a and the moving contact 362b are separated, and the vacuum switch 350 is in an open state in which current cannot pass through the vacuum switch 350. To change the state of the vacuum switch 350, the actuating device 352 moves the operating rod 367 and the moving rod 365b. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 26 / 61 16 / 30 direction to the stationary contact 362a until the moving contact 362b is joined to the stationary contact 362a.

[0051] The current interruption module 340 also includes a sensor system 369. The sensor system 369 may include, for example, a current transformer (CT) or other type of current sensor and / or a voltage sensor. The sensor system 369 may also include auxiliary items such as drive circuits and interfaces for supplying or receiving signals. The sensor system 369 is used to monitor the current flow in the current interruption module 340. The sensor system 369 may be coupled to the drive device 352. In some implementations, the sensor system 369 is configured to declare a fault condition in response to the detection of a current and / or voltage with a magnitude exceeding a limit, and the drive device 352 is configured to open the vacuum switch 350 in response to the sensor system 369 declaring a fault condition.In these implementations, the vacuum switch 350 can open independently of whether or not the control signal 121 is supplied to the drive device 352.

[0052] The current interruption module 340 also includes a current exchange 366 which is electrically connected to the movable rod 365b and to a terminal 368. The terminal 368 is accessible from an exterior of the current interruption module 340 and is configured to be electrically connected to an external device or to an electrical cable. The current exchange 366 and the terminal 368 are made of electrically conductive materials, such as, for example, metal or a metal alloy. For example, an exchange Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 27 / 61 Current switch 366 and terminal 368 can be made of copper, gold, silver, and / or brass. Current switch 366 and movable rod 365b are physically coupled to each other in any suitable manner that allows the movable rod 365b to move while maintaining the electrical connection. For example, the movable rod 365b and current switch 366 can be connected with a flexible braided and / or laminated metal bar.

[0053] FIG. 4A is a block diagram of a system 400 which includes a current interruption module 440 and an energy harvesting module 430. The energy harvesting module 430 is mounted on the frame 110 by a first mounting assembly 447 and a second mounting assembly 453. The first mounting assembly 447 is fixed to an upper part of the frame 110 and the second mounting assembly 453 is fixed to a part of the frame 110 that is below the upper part. The current interruption module 440 is connected to the energy harvesting module 430 with a separable mounting assembly which includes an upper fastening mechanism 470 and a lower fastening mechanism 451.

[0054] The current interruption module 440 includes a vacuum switch 450 which is similar to the vacuum switch 350. The vacuum switch 450 includes a vacuum bottle 461 enclosing stationary and moving contacts (not shown), a moving rod 465b which is electrically connected to the moving contact and to a current exchange 466, and an actuator 452. The actuator 452 is coupled to the moving rod 465b by means of an operating rod 467. The actuator 452 moves the operating rod 467 towards the Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 28 / 61 18 / 30 stationary contact to join the stationary and moving contacts to close the vacuum switch 450 and move the operating rod 467 away from the stationary contact to separate the stationary and moving contacts to open the vacuum switch 450. FIG. 4B is a schematic of the 400 system when the vacuum switch 450 is closed. FIG. 4C is a schematic of the 400 system when the vacuum switch 450 is open.

[0055] Referring again to FIG. 4A, the energy harvesting module 430 includes a voltage harvesting device 435, a control device 434, and a current harvesting device 436. The current harvesting device 436 includes a current transformer 489. The voltage harvesting device 435 includes a capacitive network 439 (FIGS. 4B and 4C). Referring also to FIG. 4E, an energy harvesting circuit 490 is electrically connected to the capacitive network 439 and the control apparatus 434. The voltage harvesting apparatus 435 supplies power to the control apparatus 434 through the energy harvesting circuit 490. The energy harvesting circuit 490 includes a diode network 491, a switching circuit 492, a diode 496, a low-voltage capacitive network 493, and a DC-DC buck converter 494. The output of the DC-DC buck converter powers the control apparatus 434.

[0056] The control device 434 is an electronic control device that includes an electronic processing module 433, an electronic storage device 437, and an input / output (I / O) interface 438. The electronic processing module 433 includes one or more electronic processors. The electronic processors of module 433 may be Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 29 / 61 19 / 30 any type of electronic processor and may or may not include a general-purpose central processing unit (CPU), a graphics processing unit (GPU), a microcontroller, a field-programmable gate array (FPGA), a complex programmable logic device (CPLD), and / or an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC).

[0057] The electronic storage 437 can be any type of electronic memory capable of storing data, and the electronic storage 437 can include volatile and / or non-volatile components. The electronic storage 437 and the processing module 433 are coupled in such a way that the processing module 433 can access or read data from the electronic storage 437 and can write data to the electronic storage 437. The electronic storage 437 can also store information and data related to the operation of the vacuum switch 450. For example, the electronic storage 437 can store instructions that, when executed by the processing module 433, cause the control device 434 to emit a control signal 421 to open or close the vacuum switch 450.

[0058] The 438 I / O interface is any interface that allows a human operator and / or an autonomous process to interact with the 434 control device. The 438 I / O interface may include, for example, a monitor, audio input and / or output (such as speakers and / or a microphone), a serial or parallel port, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection, and / or any type of network interface, such as Ethernet. The 438 I / O interface may also allow contactless communication through, for example, Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 30 / 61 20 / 30 example, from an IEEE 802.11, Bluetooth or NFC (near field communication) connection. The control device 434 can, for example, be operated, configured, modified or updated via the I / O interface 438.

[0059] The I / O interface 438 is also connected to the voltage pickup device 435 and the current pickup device 436 via low-energy connections 423. The low-energy connections 423 allow the voltage pickup device 435 and the current pickup device 436 to power the control device 434. The I / O interface 438 is also connected to the actuator 452 via a low-energy connection 420. The I / O interface 438 sends the control signal 421 to the actuator 452 to control the state of the vacuum switch 450. The I / O interface 438 can also allow the control device 434 to communicate with external and remote systems of the energy pickup module 430.For example, the I / O interface 438 may include a communication interface that allows communication between the control device 434 and a remote station using, for example, the Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) protocol or another service protocol. The remote station may be any type of station through which an operator is able to communicate with the control device 434 without making physical contact with the control device 434. For example, the remote station may be a computer-based workstation, a smartphone, remote control, tablet, or laptop. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 31 / 61 21 / 30

[0060] During typical operation, the current interruption module 440 is connected to the energy harvesting module 430, as shown in FIG. 4A. In the implementation shown, one terminal 475 is electrically connected to a source 402 and the second assembly 453 is connected to a load 403. The source 402 is any type of electrical source. For example, the source 402 could be a medium voltage source with a voltage of 1kV to 38kV. In some implementations, the source 402 is a single-phase 25kV AC voltage source. The load 403 is any device or apparatus that consumes, transfers, or absorbs electricity. For example, the load 403 could be a transformer.

[0061] Referring also to FIG. 4B, when the vacuum switch 450 is closed, the load current (i_load) flows in an energy path 406 between the source 402 and the load 403. The load current (i_load) is an AC current with a magnitude appropriate for the application. For example, the load current (i_load) can be from 5 A to 600 A. The load current (i_load) flows to terminal 475 and the upper clamping mechanism 470, to a connection interface 464 on the vacuum switch 450, through the closed vacuum switch 450, to the current exchange 466 and to a terminal 468, to the lower clamping mechanism 451 and to the second mounting assembly 453. The energy harvesting module 430 is a high-impedance capacitive path in parallel with the closed vacuum switch 450, which has a very low impedance. Thus, the operation of the load 403 is not affected by the presence of the energy harvesting module 430. The transformer of Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 32 / 61 Current 489 of the current-sensing device 436 detects the current flowing in the energy path 406 and supplies electrical energy to the control device 434 through the low-energy connection 423.

[0062] To open the vacuum switch 450, the control device 434 provides the control signal 421 to the actuator 452, and the actuator 452 causes the vacuum switch 450 to open. Referring also to FIG. 4C, no current flows through the open vacuum switch 450. However, the energy harvesting module 430 remains electrically connected to the source 402, and a leakage current (i_leakage) flows from the capacitive network 439 to the energy harvesting circuit 490. The leakage current (i_leakage) is converted into a DC current that charges the low-voltage capacitive network 493. The DC-DC buck converter 494 (FIG. 4E) converts the energy stored in the low-voltage capacitive network 493 into a DC voltage suitable for the control apparatus 434, and the output of the DC-DC buck converter 494 powers the control apparatus 434. Thus, energy harvesting continues, and the control apparatus 434 remains energized even when the vacuum switch 450 is open.

[0063] Referring also to FIG. 4D, during a fault condition, the connection interface 464 detaches or separates from the upper clamping mechanism 470 and rotates around a pivot point 459. The separation of the current interruption module 440 from the upper clamping mechanism 470 disconnects the source 402 from the load 403, regardless of whether the vacuum switch 450 is open or closed, and provides a visible break, which is a visual indication that the power path 406 is Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 33 / 61 23 / 30 open. When the visible break is displayed, leakage current (i_leakage) flows through the capacitive network 439 and charges the low-voltage capacitive network 493, and the energy stored in the low-voltage capacitive network 493 powers the control device 434. Thus, the energy harvesting module 430 continues to harvest energy and continues to power the control device 434 as long as the visible break is displayed.

[0064] After the fault condition is cleared, the connection interface 464 of the current interruption module 440 is reconnected to the upper clamping mechanism 470 with the vacuum switch 450 in the open state. The control device 434 is powered by the capacitive network 439 and can immediately provide the control signal 421 to the actuator 452 to close the vacuum switch 450. This allows the source 402 and the load 403 to be reconnected without unnecessary delays after the fault is resolved.

[0065] FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a power harvesting module 530. The power harvesting module 530 is a self-contained device that can power any auxiliary or external equipment 598. The equipment 598 can be, for example, a communication device or gateway, a distribution panel (overhead or underground) or a recloser. The power harvesting module 530 includes a voltage harvesting device 535 with a high-impedance capacitive network 539, an energy storage network 593 and an enclosure 531 that includes the voltage harvesting device 535 and the energy storage network 593. The capacitive network 539 is electrically connected to a Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 34 / 61 24 / 30 electrically conductive terminal 575 extending from the enclosure 531.

[0066] In operational use, the electrically conductive terminal 575 is electrically connected to a power source, such as source 402. A leakage current (i_leakage) flows through the capacitive network 539 and is stored as a voltage potential in the energy storage network 593. The energy storage network 593 provides a power output 599 to the equipment 598. The power output 599 can be, for example, a 5V DC voltage signal.

[0067] The energy harvesting module 530 can be attached to a structure supporting overhead wires, such as a pole, crossarm, or frame, or the energy harvesting module 530 can be mounted in an electrically insulating recess (such as recess 780 in FIG. 7). Additionally, the energy harvesting module 530 can be mounted in an enclosure or vault that is part of an underground distribution system. In implementations where the energy harvesting module 530 is attached to the structure supporting overhead wires, the enclosure 531 is connected to a mounting device (such as a retaining piece 680 shown in FIG. 6) that attaches to the structure.

[0068] Other implementations of the energy harvesting module 530 are possible. For example, the energy harvesting module 530 may be a stand-alone device configured to control external equipment 598. In these implementations, the energy harvesting module 530 includes the control apparatus 434, the power output 599 powers the control apparatus 434 instead of being supplied to the Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 35 / 61 25 / 30 external equipment 598 and the control device 434 provide a control signal to the external equipment. In this way, the energy harvesting module 530 controls the external equipment. In another example, the energy harvesting module 530 may include a current transformer in addition to the voltage harvesting device 535.

[0069] FIG. 6 is an external perspective view of a system 690 comprising an energy harvesting module 630 and a retention part 680. The energy harvesting module 630 includes an enclosure 631 which includes a voltage harvesting apparatus and a control apparatus. The energy harvesting module 630 may or may not include a current harvesting apparatus. In implementations in which the energy harvesting module 630 includes a current harvesting apparatus, the current harvesting apparatus is placed in the enclosure 631.

[0070] An upper connection mechanism 670 and a lower connection mechanism 651 extend radially outward from the housing 631. The upper connection mechanism 670 and the lower connection mechanism 651 are configured to connect a current interruption module (such as the current interruption module 440) to the energy harvesting module 630. The housing 631 also includes a terminal portion 673, which receives an electrical terminal (such as terminal 475) and a mounting assembly 653, which is configured to electrically connect to a load (such as load 403).

[0071] The retaining part 680 includes a retaining part 682 that surrounds the housing 631 and a mounting arm 681 that extends from the retaining part 682. The Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 36 / 61 The 26 / 30 mounting arm 681 is configured to be mounted on a pole or other structure.

[0072] The energy harvesting module 630 can be mounted on a pole or structure in other ways, and the energy harvesting module 630 can be used without the retaining part 680. For example, FIG. 7 is an external perspective view of a system 790 that includes the energy harvesting module 630 mounted in a recess 780. In the example of FIG. 7, the recess 780 has a substantially U- or C-shape. The recess 780 is made of an electrically insulating material, such as, for example, a ceramic or an insulating polymer. The recess 780 includes an upper part 777 and a lower part 778. A middle portion 783 extends between the upper portion 777 and the lower portion 778. Insulating tanks 784 extend outward from the middle portion 783.The middle section 783, the upper section 777, and the lower section 778 are joined together or made of a single continuous piece of insulating material, so that the cutout 780 is a unitary piece (for example, ceramic with metal inserts or polymer overmolded onto metal or fiberglass). The cutout 780 also includes a mounting mechanism 781 that extends from the middle section 783. The mounting mechanism 781 is configured to attach the cutout 780 to a separate structure, such as a post or crossarm.

[0073] The energy harvesting module 630 includes an electrical terminal 775. The electrical terminal 775 is electrically connected to the voltage harvesting device in the enclosure 631 and extends from the terminal 673 portion of the enclosure 631. The terminal 775 is also connected Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 37 / 61 27 / 30 electrically to a source line 776 on the top 777 of cutout 780. Source line 776 is electrically connected to a source (such as source 402). Cutout 780 also includes a spring 779 that helps maintain the electrical connection between electrical terminal 775 and source line 776. Mounting assembly 653 is electrically connected to a load connection 758 which is configured for electrical connection to a load (such as load 403).

[0074] FIGS. 8A and 8B are cross-sectional perspective views of a system 800. The system 800 includes a power harvesting module 830 mounted in the recess 780 and a current interruption module 840 mounted in a releasable manner on the power harvesting module 830. Under typical operating conditions (FIG. 8A), the current interruption module 840 is connected to the power harvesting module 830. During a fault condition (FIG. 8B), the current interruption module 840 detaches or separates from the power harvesting module 830 to exhibit a visible break.

[0075] The energy harvesting module 830 includes a voltage harvesting device 835, a low-voltage capacitive network 893, a control device 834, and a current harvesting device 836. The voltage harvesting device 835 includes a high- or medium-voltage capacitor, and the current harvesting device 836 is a current transformer (CT). The control device 834 is an electronic control and may be similar to the control device 434. Each of the low-voltage capacitive networks 893 and the current harvesting device 836 are electrically connected to the control device 834 by means of a Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 38 / 61 28 / 30 low energy connection 823 (only connection 823 between the current-gathering device 836 and the control device 834 is labeled in FIGS. 8A and 8B).

[0076] The control apparatus 834, the voltage pickup apparatus 835, the low-voltage capacitive network 893, and the current pickup apparatus 836 are enclosed in an enclosure 831. The voltage pickup apparatus 835 is electrically connected to an electrically conductive terminal 875 that extends through a terminal portion 876 at one end of the enclosure 831. The current pickup apparatus 836 is electrically connected to a connecting part 851 and a mounting assembly 853. The connecting part 851 and the mounting assembly 853 extend through the enclosure 831 in different directions and are electrically conductive.

[0077] The current interruption module 840 includes a vacuum switch 850 and an actuator 852 that controls the state of the vacuum switch 850. The vacuum switch 850 and the actuator 852 are inside an enclosure 841. The vacuum switch 850 includes stationary and moving contacts (not shown) housed in a vacuum bottle 861. The stationary contact of the vacuum switch 850 is electrically connected to a stationary rod (not shown) and to an electrically conductive terminal 864 that is accessible from an exterior of the enclosure 841. The moving contact of the vacuum switch 850 is electrically connected to a moving rod 865b, which is mechanically coupled to an operating rod 867. The actuator 852 is coupled to the operating rod 867. The actuator 852 opens the vacuum switch 850 by moving the operating rod. 867 Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 39 / 61 29 / 30 away from the stationary contact to separate the moving contact from the stationary contact and closes the vacuum switch 850 by moving the operating rod 867 towards the stationary contact to join the moving contact to the stationary contact. The moving rod 865b is electrically connected to a current exchange 866, which includes a terminal 868 that extends through the housing 841.

[0078] Terminal 868 is connected to the connecting part 851 at a pivot point 859. The electrically conductive terminal 864 (which is electrically connected to the stationary contact of the vacuum switch 850) is connected to one end of a separable electrically conductive mounting piece 870. Terminal 875 (which is electrically connected to the voltage pickup device 835) is connected to the other end of the separable electrically conductive mounting piece 870.

[0079] In operational use in the absence of a fault condition, the current interruption module 840 is connected to the energy harvesting module 830, and the energy harvesting module 830 is mounted in the recess 780, as shown in FIG. 8A. The source line 776 is electrically connected to a source (such as source 402). The terminal 875 of the energy harvesting module 830 is electrically connected to the electrically conductive separable mounting piece 870 and to the voltage harvesting device 835. When the vacuum switch 850 is closed, the rated load current flows to the source line 776, terminal 875, the electrically conductive separable mounting piece 870, terminal 864, the vacuum switch 850, the current exchange 866, and to the mounting assembly 853 at the load (such as load 403). The Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 40 / 61 The 30 / 30 current transformer 836 detects the rated load current and supplies power to the control device 834. The impedance of the power pickup module 830 is much higher than the impedance of the closed vacuum switch 850. Although a small amount of current may flow from terminal 875 to the voltage pickup device 835, almost all the current flows to the vacuum switch 850. When the vacuum switch 850 is open, the rated load current does not flow through the vacuum switch 850. Terminal 785 is electrically connected to the source, and the leakage current flows through the voltage pickup device 835 and is stored in the low-voltage capacitive network 893, which supplies power to the control device 834.

[0080] Referring to FIG. 8B, during a fault condition, the electrically conductive separable mounting piece 870 releases terminal 864 and the current interruption module 840 rotates around pivot point 859 to provide a visual indication that the power path has been opened and the rated load current is not flowing to the load. The voltage pickup device 835 remains electrically connected to terminal 875 and source line 776. Leakage current flows through the voltage pickup device 835 and is stored in the low-voltage capacitive network 893, which feeds the control device 834.

[0081] These and other implementations are within the scope of the claims. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 41 / 61

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. System, characterized in that it comprises: a current interruption module comprising: a first enclosure and a switching device in the first enclosure, the switching device configured to control an electrical connection between a first node of an electrical system and a second node of an electrical system in response to a control signal; and a power harvesting module comprising: a control apparatus configured to emit the command signal; a power harvesting apparatus electrically connected to the control apparatus; and a second enclosure that at least partially encloses the power harvesting apparatus and the control apparatus, characterized in that the power harvesting apparatus is electrically connected to the first node, regardless of the state of the switching device.

2. System according to claim 1, characterized in that it further comprises: a connection system configured to releaseably attach the current interruption module to the energy harvesting module.

3. System according to claim 2, characterized in that the current interruption module detaches from the connection system to provide a visible break during a fault condition, and the energy harvesting device is electrically connected to the first node while the visible break is provided.

4. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching device Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, page 42 / 61 2 / 5 comprises an open state and a closed state; and the energy harvesting apparatus is electrically connected to the first node when the switching device is in the open state and when the switching device is in the closed state.

5. System according to claim 4, characterized in that the energy harvesting apparatus comprises one or more voltage harvesting apparatuses and a current harvesting apparatus.

6. System according to claim 5, characterized in that the current-sensing apparatus is configured to detect the nominal load current flowing while the switching device is in the closed state and to supply the control apparatus based on the detected nominal load current.

7. System according to claim 6, characterized in that the voltage pickup apparatus comprises a capacitive network configured to store leakage current while the switching device is in the open state.

8. System according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises an electrically insulating support configured for mounting the energy harvesting apparatus on a utility structure.

9. System according to claim 2, characterized in that it further comprises a mounting strap configured to enclose the second enclosure and mount the energy harvesting apparatus on a utility structure. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p. 43 / 61 3 / 5 10. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the switching device is a vacuum switch.

11. System according to claim 1, characterized in that the energy harvesting apparatus comprises a first capacitive network and a second capacitive network configured to store the leakage current from the first capacitive network and supply power to the control apparatus while the switching device is not conducting current.

12. Energy harvesting module, characterized in that it comprises: an enclosure; a mounting system configured to connect the enclosure to a utility system structure; an electrical input terminal accessible from the exterior of the enclosure, the electrical input terminal configured to connect electrically to a power source; an energy harvesting apparatus comprising: a first capacitive network electrically connected to the electrical input terminal; a second capacitive network configured to receive leakage current from the first capacitive network and store the leakage current as stored energy; and an energy harvesting output configured to provide an electrical signal based on the stored energy; and an electrical output terminal electrically connected to the second capacitive network, characterized in that Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, p.The 44 / 61 4 / 5 electrical output terminal is configured to electrically connect to electrical equipment external to the power harvesting module and provide the electrical signal to the electrical equipment.

13. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that the electrical signal comprises a voltage signal configured to supply power to the electrical equipment.

14. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that it further comprises an electronic control apparatus electrically connected to the second capacitive network, and characterized in that the electronic control apparatus is powered by the stored energy and generates a control signal based on the stored energy, and the control signal is the electrical signal supplied to the electrical equipment.

15. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that the first capacitive network comprises a capacitor with potting material.

16. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that the mounting system comprises a mounting arm configured to connect the enclosure to the utility system structure.

17. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that the mounting system is configured to fix the enclosure to a cutout.

18. Energy harvesting module, according to claim 12, characterized in that the electrical signal comprises one or more of: electrical energy configured to drive a control of the electrical equipment, electrical energy configured to drive a sensor module of the electrical equipment, and electrical energy to drive a communication gateway of the electrical equipment. Petition 870250083298, dated 09 / 16 / 2025, pp. 46 / 61

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