Improved hybrid type switching device

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an improved hybrid type switching device. A switching device for an electrical distribution network, comprising: - a first switching unit having one or more first electrodes, each first electrode being electrically connectable with a corresponding first line conductor of an electrical line and comprising one or more solid state switches adapted to operate in a conducting state or in a blocking state to allow or interrupt the current flow, wherein said first switching unit is adapted to be reversibly switched between a closed condition, in which said solid state switches are in the conducting state, and an open condition, in which said solid state switches are in the blocking state; - a second switching unit having one or more second electrodes, each second electrode being electrically connectable with a corresponding second line conductor of said electrical line and electrically connected in series with a corresponding first electrode of said first switching unit, each second electrode comprising an electrical contact adapted to operate in a coupling state or in a decoupling state to allow or interrupt the current flow along said second electrode, wherein said second switching unit is adapted to be reversibly switched between a closed condition, in which said electrical contact is in the coupling state, and an open condition, in which said electrical contact is in the decoupling state; - a controller implementing a robust control logic of the operation of said first switching unit and of said second switching unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to switching devices for power distribution networks, such as circuit breakers or other devices of the same type. Background Technology

[0002] As is well known, low-voltage switchgear is used in circuits or power grids to allow for the proper operation of specific sections of the circuit or power grid. For example, these devices may be used to ensure the availability of rated current for feeding certain utilities, to enable electrical loads to be properly plugged in and disconnected, and to protect the power grid and installed electrical loads against fault events such as overloads and short circuits (especially circuit breakers).

[0003] Most conventional switching devices include an electromechanical switching unit with one or more electrodes, each electrode including a pair of electrical contacts adapted to couple or decouple to allow or interrupt current flow.

[0004] Although these devices have proven to be very robust and reliable, they exhibit relatively long interruption times in direct current ("DC") applications, primarily at relatively high voltages (between 1-1.5 kV DC). Consequently, the arcing that typically occurs between the electrical contacts when disconnected can persist for a relatively long time. This often leads to severe wear of the electrical contacts and a significant reduction in operational reliability and electrical durability.

[0005] To overcome these technical challenges, they have been designed as switching devices (also known as "SSCBs" – solid-state circuit breakers) that include switching units with one or more solid-state switches for each electrode. Solid-state switches are semiconductor-based switches adapted to operate in either an on or off state to allow or interrupt current flow.

[0006] The main advantage of SSCBs is that they possess potentially unlimited electrical durability because they perform the breaking operation without forming an electric arc. Furthermore, their interruption time is significantly shorter compared to that of electromechanical switching devices.

[0007] A significant drawback of SSCBs is that they typically cannot provide electrical insulation between the conductors to which they are connected. In fact, leakage current often flows when a voltage is applied to the power terminals of a solid-state switch (e.g., the collector and emitter terminals of an IGBT), even when the switch is in the off state.

[0008] Recently, a switching device has been developed that includes SSCB switch units and electromechanical switch units connected in series.

[0009] These switching devices (often referred to as "hybrid switching devices") allow the use of all the advantages offered by SSCBs in terms of reliability and reduced downtime, while also allowing for electrical insulation between the wire conductors to which they are connected.

[0010] However, for proper operation, these switching devices typically require close time synchronization between the switching operations of the SSCB switching unit and the electromechanical switching unit. Therefore, they often require complex and expensive control resources to ensure satisfactory levels of efficiency and reliability. Summary of the Invention

[0011] The main objective of this invention is to provide a hybrid type of switching device, particularly a type of switching device comprising an SSCB switching unit and an electromechanical switching unit connected in series, which makes it possible to overcome or mitigate the aforementioned problems of the prior art.

[0012] Within this objective, the object of the present invention is to provide a hybrid type of switching device that can be easily controlled in operation without arranging complex and expensive control resources.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to provide a hybrid type of switching device that ensures a high level of efficiency and reliability during operation.

[0014] Another object of the present invention is to provide a hybrid type of switching device that is relatively easy and inexpensive to manufacture in an industrial setting.

[0015] According to the invention, this objective and these objectives, as well as other objectives that will become clear from the following description and drawings, are achieved by the switching device described below.

[0016] The switching device according to the invention includes a first switching unit having one or more first electrodes. Each first electrode is electrically connected to a corresponding first conductor of an electric wire, and it includes one or more solid-state switches adapted to operate in an on-state or an off-state to allow or interrupt current flow. The first switching unit is adapted to reversibly switch between a closed condition and an open condition, wherein the solid-state switch is in an on-state under the closed condition and in an off-state under the open condition.

[0017] The switching device according to the invention includes a second switching unit having one or more second electrodes. Each second electrode is electrically connected to a corresponding second conductor of the wire, and it is electrically connected in series with a corresponding first electrode of the first switching unit.

[0018] Each second electrode includes an electrical contact adapted to operate in a coupled or decoupled state to allow or interrupt the flow of current along the second electrode. The second switching unit is adapted to reversibly switch between a closed condition and an open condition, wherein the electrical contact is in a coupled state under the closed condition and in a decoupled state under the open condition.

[0019] The switching device according to the invention includes a controller adapted to control the operation of the device (specifically the first switching unit and the second switching unit).

[0020] According to the present invention, the controller is configured to control the first switching unit and the second switching unit such that the first switching unit and the second switching unit are configured to operate in combination only according to the following operations: - A first operational configuration corresponding to the closed state of the switching device, in which both the first switching unit and the second switching unit are in a closed condition; or - A second operating configuration corresponding to the standby state of the switching device, in which the first switch is in an open condition and the second switch is in a closed condition; or - A third operating configuration corresponding to the off state of the switching device, in which both the first switching unit and the second switching unit are in the off condition.

[0021] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the first operation configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operation configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating the desired operating state of the switching device.

[0022] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the second operating configuration, the controller, in response to receiving an input command indicating the desired operating state of the switching device, commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the first operating configuration or to switch to the third operating configuration.

[0023] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the third operating configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating the desired operating state of the switching device.

[0024] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the first operating configuration, the controller, in response to receiving an input command indicating a desired off state of the switching device, commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration and then to the third operating configuration.

[0025] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the third operating configuration, the controller, in response to receiving an input command indicating the desired closed state of the switching device, commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration and then to the first operating configuration.

[0026] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the first operating configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating a desired standby state of the switching device.

[0027] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the second operating configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the first operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating the desired closed state of the switching device.

[0028] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the third operating configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating a desired standby state of the switching device.

[0029] Preferably, the controller is configured such that when the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the second operating configuration, the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the third operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating a desired off state of the switching device.

[0030] According to an aspect of the invention, the controller includes an interface portion comprising one or more input ports adapted to receive the aforementioned input commands indicating a desired operating state of the switching device.

[0031] Preferably, the switching device includes a human-machine interface that communicates with the interface portion. The human-machine interface is adapted to provide the aforementioned input commands during user interaction.

[0032] Preferably, the interface portion is capable of communicating with a remote computerized device to receive the aforementioned input commands.

[0033] According to an aspect of the invention, the controller is included in the first switching unit. Attached Figure Description

[0034] Other features and advantages of the invention will become more apparent from the description of preferred, but not exclusive, embodiments, which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings purely by way of example and without limitation, wherein: - Figure 1 An embodiment of the switching device according to the present invention is illustrated schematically; - Figure 1A Another embodiment of the switching device according to the invention is illustrated schematically; - Figures 2-8 The operation of a switching device including a controller according to the present invention is illustrated schematically. Detailed Implementation

[0035] Referring to the above figures, the present invention relates to a switching device 100 for a power distribution network, such as a circuit breaker, disconnector, or contactor.

[0036] The switchgear 100 is particularly suitable for installation in low-voltage power grids or systems. However, it can also be successfully used in medium-voltage power grids or systems.

[0037] For the purposes of this invention, the term "low voltage" (LV) refers to operating voltages below 1 kV AC and 1.5 kV DC, while the term "medium voltage" (LV) refers to higher operating voltages, up to tens of kV, such as up to 72 kV AC and 100 kV DC.

[0038] The switching device 100 includes a first switching unit 1 of type SSCB (hereinafter also referred to as "SSCB switching unit") and a second switching unit 2 of type electromechanical (hereinafter also referred to as "electromechanical switching unit") connected in series.

[0039] The first switching unit 1 includes one or more first electrodes 1A.

[0040] The number of electrodes in the first switching unit can be varied as needed. In the embodiment shown in the referenced figures, the first switching unit 1 is three-phase and includes three electrodes. However, according to other embodiments of the invention (not shown), the first switching unit may include a different number of electrodes.

[0041] Each electrode 1A is intended to be electrically connected to a corresponding first conductor 51 of the wire 500. One or more first conductors 51 of the wire 500 may be connected to an equivalent power source, which may be, for example, part of a power transmission or generation system or power grid.

[0042] Preferably, for each electrode 1A, the first switching unit 1 includes a first electrode contact 11 and a second electrode contact 12.

[0043] Each first pole contact 11 can be electrically connected to the corresponding conductor 51 of the wire 500, while each second pole contact 12 is electrically connected in series with the pole contact 23 of the corresponding electrode 2A of the switch unit 2.

[0044] Each electrode 1A includes one or more solid-state switches 10 adapted to operate in an on or off state to allow or interrupt current flow along the electrode.

[0045] The solid-state switch 10 may include, for example, a MOSFET, an insulated gate bipolar transistor (“IGBT”), a gate turn-off thyristor (GTO) or an integrated gate commutated thyristor (“IGCT”).

[0046] A solid-state switch 10 for each electrode 1A is electrically connected to the pole contacts 11, 12 of that electrode 1A, for example, according to a series circuit configuration or other more complex circuit configuration of known types.

[0047] In operation, the first switching unit 1 can reversibly switch between a closed condition ON in which the solid-state switch 10 of electrode 1A is in a conducting state and an open condition OFF in which the solid-state switch 10 of electrode 1A is in a blocking state.

[0048] When the first switching unit is in the ON condition, line current is allowed to flow through electrode 1A. Conversely, when the first switching unit is in the OFF condition, line current cannot flow along electrode 1A. However, the possible leakage current that typically affects the solid-state switch in the blocking state can still circulate along electrode 1A.

[0049] The transition from the closing condition ON to the opening condition OFF constitutes the opening operation of the first switching unit, while the transition from the opening condition OFF to the closing condition ON constitutes the closing operation of the first switching unit.

[0050] The first switching unit 1 can perform a disconnection or closing operation when it receives the first trip signal T1 from the controller 3.

[0051] Preferably, the first switching unit 1 includes one or more first driving circuits (not shown), which are adapted to receive a first trip signal T1 and drive the control terminal (e.g., gate terminal or base terminal) of the solid-state switch 10 according to the first trip signal.

[0052] The second switching unit 2 includes one or more second electrodes 2A.

[0053] Furthermore, the number of electrodes 2A in the second switching unit can be varied as needed. Typically, the number of electrodes 2A corresponds to the number of electrodes 1A in the first switching unit.

[0054] Each electrode 2A is electrically connected in series with the corresponding electrode 1A of the first switching unit 1, and it is intended to be electrically connected to the corresponding second conductor 52 of the wire 500. One or more second conductors 52 of the wire 500 may be connected to an equivalent electrical load, which may be, for example, part of an electrical system or device or a power grid.

[0055] Preferably, for each electrode 2A, the second switching unit includes a third electrode contact 23 and a fourth electrode contact 24.

[0056] Each third pole contact 23 is electrically connected in series with the second pole contact 12 of the corresponding electrode 1A of the first switching unit, while the fourth pole contact 24 can be electrically connected to the corresponding second conductor 52 of the wire 500.

[0057] Each second electrode 2A includes an electrical contact 20 that can operate in a coupled or decoupled state to allow or interrupt current flow along the second electrode. Conveniently, the electrical contact 20 of each electrode 2A includes a fixed electrical contact and a movable electrical contact (not shown). Each movable contact can be actuated to couple or decouple from the fixed contact.

[0058] During operation, the second switching unit 2 can reversibly switch between the closing condition ON and the opening condition OFF. When the closing condition ON is applied, the electrical contact 20 of electrode 2A is in a coupled state, and when the opening condition OFF is applied, the electrical contact 20 of electrode 2A is in a decoupled state.

[0059] When the second switching unit is in the ON position, line current is allowed to flow through electrode 2A. Conversely, when the second switching unit is in the OFF position, line current is not allowed to flow through electrode 2A.

[0060] The transition from the closing condition ON to the opening condition OFF constitutes the opening operation of the second switching unit, while the transition from the opening condition OFF to the closing condition ON constitutes the closing operation of the second switching unit.

[0061] Preferably, the second switching unit 2 includes one or more trip actuators 25 (which may be of a known type) adapted to actuate the movable contacts of the switching unit in order to perform the above-described opening and closing operations.

[0062] As an example, the trip actuator 25 may include a disconnecting coil actuator and a closing coil actuator, the disconnecting coil actuator being adapted to actuate the movable contact of electrode 2A to perform a disconnection operation, and the closing coil actuator being adapted to actuate the movable contact of electrode 2A to perform a closing operation.

[0063] The trip actuator 25 is operably coupled to a suitable actuation mechanism (not shown) adapted to actuate the movable contact of the second switching unit. This actuation mechanism (which may be of a known type) is conveniently designed to move the movable contact of the second switching unit 2 when tripped by the aforementioned trip actuator.

[0064] When the second switching unit 2 receives the trip signal T2 from the controller, it can perform a disconnection operation or a closing operation.

[0065] Preferably, the second switching unit 2 may include one or more second driving circuits (not shown), which are adapted to receive the trip signal T2 and drive the trip actuator 25 according to the second trip signal.

[0066] When driven by the trip signal T2, the trip actuator 25 trips the aforementioned actuation mechanism, which actuates the movable contact of the second switching unit to perform the closing or opening operation of the second switching unit.

[0067] Preferably, the second switching unit 2 includes one or more sensing devices 26 adapted to provide a sensing signal S to the controller indicating the operating conditions of the second switching unit.

[0068] As an example, sensing device 26 may include a closing microswitch (which may be of a known type) adapted to provide a sensing signal indicating the closing condition ON of the second switching unit and an opening microswitch (which may be of a known type) adapted to provide a sensing signal indicating the opening condition OFF of the second switching unit.

[0069] Preferably, the second switching unit 2 includes one or more enabling devices 27 adapted to provide an enabling signal E to the controller to allow or prevent the second switching unit 2 from operating under the closed condition ON. As an example, the one or more enabling devices 27 may include an enabling microswitch (which may be of a known type) adapted to provide an enabling signal E to enable the second switching unit 2 to operate under the closed condition ON.

[0070] According to some embodiments of the invention (not shown), the switching device 100 is of the "withdrawable type".

[0071] In this configuration, switch units 1 and 2 are movable relative to the fixed portion of the switching device. Specifically, each switch unit is reversibly movable between an insertion position and a withdrawal position relative to the fixed portion of the switching device. For this purpose, each switch unit 1 and 2 is preferably mounted on a corresponding bracket that is slidably movable relative to the fixed portion of the switching device.

[0072] Since the switching unit is movable, the first pole contact 11 and the fourth pole contact 24 of the switching device are adapted to be electrically coupled or decoupled from corresponding wire terminals (not shown), which are arranged in the fixed part of the switching device and electrically connected to the corresponding wire conductors 51, 52 of the wire.

[0073] Typically, the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 can be arranged in an industrial setting based on known types of solutions. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, they will not be described in further structural detail below.

[0074] According to the present invention, the switching device 100 includes a controller 3 adapted to control the operation of the switching device (specifically the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2).

[0075] According to some embodiments of the present invention ( Figure 1 ), controller 3 is an independent device that is not surrounded by either of the switching units 1 or 2.

[0076] Other embodiments of the present invention ( Figure 1A The controller 3 is enclosed in one of the switching units 1 and 2, preferably in the first switching unit 1. In this case, the controller 3 may be a controller for the first switching unit, which is suitably configured to also perform the functions described below (in addition to other functions specifically for the first switching unit).

[0077] Preferably, the controller 3 includes a data processing section 31 adapted to process and provide data or control signals to achieve the requested function. Generally, the data processing section 31 may include digital or analog data processing resources, such as one or more microprocessors or DSPs.

[0078] Preferably, the controller 3 includes a tripping section 32 adapted to interact with the data processing section 31 to generate tripping signals T1 and T2 for controlling the operation of the switching units 1 and 2. Typically, the tripping section 32 may include digital or analog data processing resources, such as one or more microprocessors or DSPs.

[0079] Preferably, the controller 3 is adapted to receive and process input commands CM1, CM2, CM3 (e.g., formed by appropriate control signals) that indicate the desired operating state of the switching device 100 in order to control the operation of the switching units 1, 2.

[0080] Preferably, the controller 3 includes an interface portion 33, which includes one or more input ports adapted to receive input commands CM1, CM2, CM3.

[0081] Preferably, the switching device 100 includes a human-machine interface 5 that communicates with the interface portion 33 of the controller 3. The human-machine interface 5 is adapted to provide input commands CM1, CM2, CM3 when interacting with a user.

[0082] As an example, the human-machine interface 5 may include appropriate buttons that a user can press to generate input commands CM1, CM2, CM3.

[0083] As another example, the human-machine interface 5 may include a touchscreen that includes appropriate graphical resources (e.g., numeric buttons) that a user can activate to generate input commands CM1, CM2, CM3.

[0084] As an additional example, the human-machine interface 5 can interact with the user's computer device (e.g., wirelessly) to generate input commands CM1, CM2, CM3.

[0085] Preferably, the human-machine interface 5 is a separate device not enclosed in either of the switching units 1 or 2.

[0086] Other embodiments of the present invention ( Figure 1A The human-machine interface 5 is enclosed within one of the switching units, preferably within the first switching unit 1. In this case, the human-machine interface 5 can be a human-machine interface of the first switching unit that is appropriately configured to perform the functions described above (in addition to other functions specifically for the first switching unit).

[0087] According to some embodiments of the invention, the interface portion 33 of the controller 3 is adapted to communicate with a remote computerized device 9 (which is generally not part of the switching device 100) (e.g., a digital relay). Conveniently, the interface 33 can receive input commands CM1, CM2, CM3 from the computerized device 9.

[0088] Preferably, the switching device 100 includes an auxiliary power supply 4 adapted to provide appropriate feed voltage to the controller 3 and other possible electrical or electronic components of the switching device (e.g., the aforementioned drive circuitry included in the switching unit). Typically, the auxiliary power supply 4 may include any power and control circuitry of digital or analog type, as needed.

[0089] Preferably, the auxiliary power supply 4 is a separate device. However, different types of arrangements are available for technicians.

[0090] Typically, the controller 3, human-machine interface 5, and auxiliary power supply 4 can be arranged in an industrial setting based on known types of hardware solutions. Therefore, for the sake of brevity, they will not be described in further structural or circuit details below.

[0091] An important aspect of the present invention includes that the controller 3 implements special control logic to control the operation of the switching device 100 by controlling the operation of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2.

[0092] According to this control logic, the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 can only be used in combination with specific operating configurations, each configuration corresponding to the switching device 100. Figure 2 The predetermined given operation state.

[0093] More specifically, according to the present invention, the controller 3 controls the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 such that the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 can be configured to operate in combination only according to the following operations: - First operation configuration [I], wherein both the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the closed condition ON; or - Second operation configuration [X], wherein the first switch unit 1 is in the OFF condition and the second switch unit 2 is in the ON condition; or - Third operating configuration, wherein both the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the OFF state.

[0094] When the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 operate in combination according to the first operating configuration [I], line current is allowed to flow through the electrodes 1A and 2A of the switching units 1 and 2. Therefore, electrical continuity between the conductors 51 and 52 of the wire 500 is ensured. The first operating configuration [I] of the first switching unit and the second switching unit corresponds to the closed state of the switching device.

[0095] When the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 operate in combination according to the second operating configuration [X], since the first switching unit 1 is in the OFF condition, line current is not allowed to flow along the electrodes 1A and 2A of the switching unit. Therefore, the conductors 51 and 52 of the wire 500 are disconnected. However, since the second switching unit 2 is in the ON condition and possible leakage current affecting the solid-state switch 10 of the first switching unit 1 can still flow along the electrodes 1A and 2A, there is no electrical insulation between the conductors 51 and 52. The second operating configuration [X] of the first and second switching units corresponds to the standby state of the switching device, which is between the closed and open states.

[0096] When the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 operate in combination according to the third operating configuration [O], line current and possible leakage current are not allowed to flow along the electrodes 1A and 2A of the switching units because the switching units are both in the OFF condition. The conductors 51 and 52 of the wire 500 are disconnected, ensuring electrical insulation between them. The third operating configuration [O] of the first and second switching units corresponds to the OFF state of the switching device 100.

[0097] Preferably, the controller 3 is configured to command the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch from one operating configuration to another in response to receiving the input commands CM1, CM2, CM3 indicating the desired operating state of the switch device 100.

[0098] However, according to the control logic implemented by the controller 3, any transition between the operating configurations of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 must always involve the second operating configuration [X] corresponding to the standby state of the switching device 100. Figure 2 ).

[0099] In other words, the controller 3 is configured to control the switching units 1 and 2 in a manner that prevents any direct transition between the first operating configuration [I] and the third configuration [O] of the switching units 1 and 2.

[0100] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving input commands CM2 and CM3 indicating the desired operation state of the switch device 100, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100).

[0101] In fact, according to the control logic implemented by the controller 3, the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 can switch from the first operation configuration [I] to another operation configuration only through the second operation configuration [X].

[0102] This means that when it is in the closed state (first operation configuration [I] of switch units 1, 2), in response to receiving input commands CM2, CM3 indicating different desired operation states, switch device 100 can switch to another operation state only through the standby state (second operation configuration [X] of switch units 1, 2).

[0103] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving input commands CM1 and CM3 indicating the desired operation state of the switch device 100, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100) or switch to the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the open state of the switch device 100).

[0104] In fact, according to the control logic implemented by the controller 3, the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 can switch from the second operation configuration [X] to the first operation configuration [I] or switch to the third operation configuration [O] according to the received input commands CM1 and CM3.

[0105] This means that when it is in standby mode (second operation configuration [X] of switch units 1 and 2), in response to receiving input commands CM1 and CM3 indicating different desired operation states, switch device 100 can switch to closed mode (first operation configuration [I] of first switch unit 1 and second switch unit 2) or open mode (third operation configuration [O] of first switch unit 1 and second switch unit 2) according to the received input commands CM1 and CM3.

[0106] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the off state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving input commands CM1 and CM2 indicating the desired operation state of the switch device 100, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100).

[0107] In fact, according to the control logic implemented by the controller 3, the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 can switch from the third operation configuration [O] to another operation configuration only through the second operation configuration [X].

[0108] This means that when it is in the off state (third operation configuration O of switch units 1 and 2), in response to receiving input commands CM1 and CM2 indicating different desired operation states, switch device 100 can switch to another operation state (second operation configuration X of switch units 1 and 2) simply by going through the standby state.

[0109] Figure 3 The operation of controller 3 is shown when switch device 100 is required to perform a disconnection operation (i.e., a transition from a closed state to a closed state) in response to receiving an input command CM3 (disconnection input command) indicating the desired disconnection state of switch device 100.

[0110] In this case, controller 3 must manage the transition of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 from the first operating configuration [I] to the third operating configuration [O].

[0111] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the disconnect input command CM3, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100) and then switch to the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the open state of the switch device 100).

[0112] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switch units 1 and 2 such that switch units 1 and 2 must always be in a second operating configuration [X] during the disconnection operation of switch device 100. This means that switch device 100 must always be in a standby state when it performs a disconnection operation in response to receiving disconnection input command CM3.

[0113] Figure 4 The diagram illustrates the operation of the controller 3 when the switching device 100 is required to perform a closing operation (i.e., a transition from an open state to a closed state) in response to receiving an input command CM1 (closing input command) indicating the desired closed state of the switching device 100.

[0114] In this case, controller 3 must manage the transition of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 from the third operating configuration [O] to the first operating configuration [I].

[0115] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the open state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the closing input command CM1, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100) and then switch to the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100).

[0116] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switch units 1 and 2 such that switch units 1 and 2 must always be in a second operating configuration [X] during the closing operation of switch device 100. This means that switch device 100 must always be in a standby state when it performs a closing operation in response to receiving the closing input command CM1.

[0117] Figure 5 This illustrates the operation of the controller 3 when the switching device 100 must perform a transition from a closed state to a standby state in response to receiving an input command CM2 (standby input command) indicating the desired standby state of the switching device 100.

[0118] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the standby input command CM2, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100).

[0119] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switch units 1 and 2, such that switch units 1 and 2 can directly switch from a first operating configuration [I] to a second operating configuration [X]. This means that switch device 100 can always directly transition from a closed state to a standby state in response to receiving standby input command CM2.

[0120] Figure 6 This illustrates the operation of the controller 3 when the switching device 100 must perform a transition from a standby state to a closed state in response to receiving a closed input command CM1.

[0121] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the closing input command CM1, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the first operation configuration [I] (corresponding to the closed state of the switch device 100).

[0122] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switch units 1 and 2, such that switch units 1 and 2 can directly switch from the second operating configuration [X] to the first operating configuration [I]. This means that switch device 100 can always directly transition from standby state to closed state in response to receiving the closed input command CM1.

[0123] Figure 7 This illustrates the operation of the controller 3 when the switching device 100 must perform a transition from the off state to the standby state in response to receiving the standby input command CM2.

[0124] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the off state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the standby input command CM2, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100).

[0125] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switching units 1 and 2, allowing switching units 1 and 2 to switch directly from the third operating configuration [O] to the second operating configuration [X]. This means that switching device 100 can always directly transition from the off state to the standby state in response to receiving the standby input command CM2.

[0126] Figure 8 This illustrates the operation of the controller 3 when the switching device 100 must perform a transition from a standby state to an off state in response to receiving the disconnect input command CM3.

[0127] Preferably, when the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 are in the second operation configuration [X] (corresponding to the standby state of the switch device 100), in response to receiving the disconnect input command CM3, the controller 3 commands the first switch unit 1 and the second switch unit 2 to switch to the third operation configuration [O] (corresponding to the disconnect state of the switch device 100).

[0128] In practice, controller 3 is configured to control switching units 1 and 2, allowing switching units 1 and 2 to switch directly from the second operating configuration [X] to the third operating configuration [O]. This means that switching device 100 can always directly transition from standby state to open state in response to receiving the disconnect input command CM3.

[0129] The switching device 100 of the present invention offers relevant advantages over existing corresponding solutions.

[0130] Unlike known solutions in the prior art, the controller 3 of the switching device 100 is configured to control the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2, so that the switching device 100 can also take a standby state (the second configuration of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2) in addition to the closed state (the first configuration of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 [I]) and the open state (the third configuration of the first switching unit 1 and the second switching unit 2 [O]).

[0131] This solution allows for relaxation of the time synchronization constraints between the switching operations of switching units 1 and 2 when the switching device 100 must perform an open operation (i.e., a transition from a closed state to an open state) or a close operation (i.e., a transition from an open state to a closed state).

[0132] Therefore, the switching device 100 can be operated according to robust control logic that does not require complex and expensive control resources to implement.

[0133] Therefore, the switching device 100 ensures a high level of efficiency and reliability during operation.

[0134] At the same time, the switch device 100 can be manufactured in an industrial-grade manner at a competitive cost compared to similar devices in the prior art.

Claims

1. A switching device (100) for a power distribution network, comprising: - A first switching unit (1) having one or more first electrodes (1A), each first electrode being electrically connected to a corresponding first conductor (51) of a wire (500) and including one or more solid-state switches (10) adapted to operate in an ON state or a OFF state to allow or interrupt current flow, wherein the first switching unit is adapted to reversibly switch between a ON condition and an OFF condition, wherein the solid-state switch (10) is in an ON state in the ON condition and in an OFF condition; - A second switching unit (2) having one or more second electrodes (2A), each second electrode being electrically connected to a corresponding second conductor (52) of the wire (500) and electrically connected in series with a corresponding first electrode (1A) of the first switching unit, each second electrode including an electrical contact (20) adapted to operate in a coupled or decoupled state to allow or interrupt the flow of current along the second electrode, wherein the second switching unit is adapted to reversibly switch between a closed condition (ON) and an open condition (OFF), wherein the electrical contact (20) is in a coupled state in the closed condition (ON) and in a decoupled state in the open condition (OFF); - Controller (3), The controller (3) is configured to control the first switching unit (1) and the second switching unit (2) such that the first switching unit and the second switching unit are configured to operate in combination according to the following operation configuration: - A first operating configuration ([I]) corresponding to the closed state of the switching device, in which both the first switching unit (1) and the second switching unit (2) are in the closed condition (ON); or - A second operating configuration ([X]) corresponding to the standby state of the switching device, in which the first switching unit (1) is in an open condition (OFF) and the second switching unit (2) is in a closed condition (ON); or - A third operation configuration ([O]) corresponding to the off state of the switching device, in which both the first switching unit (1) and the second switching unit (2) are in the off condition (OFF). - wherein the first switching unit and the second switching unit operate in combination according to the first operating configuration or the third operating configuration, and wherein the controller commands the first switching unit and the second switching unit to switch to the second operating configuration in response to receiving an input command indicating a desired standby state of the switching device.

2. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the first operation configuration ([I]), the controller (3) commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the second operation configuration ([X]) in response to receiving an input command (CM2, CM3) indicating the desired operating state of the switch device.

3. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the second operation configuration ([X]), the controller (3) commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the first operation configuration ([I]) or switch to the third operation configuration ([O]) in response to receiving an input command (CM1, CM3) indicating the desired operation state of the switch device.

4. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the third operation configuration ([O]), the controller (3) commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the second operation configuration ([X]) in response to receiving an input command (CM1, CM2) indicating the desired operating state of the switch device.

5. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the first operation configuration ([I]), the controller, in response to receiving an input command (CM3) indicating the desired off state ([O]) of the switch device, commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the second operation configuration ([X]) and then to the third operation configuration ([O]).

6. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the third operation configuration ([O]), the controller, in response to receiving an input command (CM1) indicating the desired closed state ([I]) of the switch device, commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the second operation configuration ([X]) and then switch to the first operation configuration ([I]).

7. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the second operation configuration ([X]), the controller commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the first operation configuration ([I]) in response to receiving an input command (CM1) indicating the desired closed state of the switch device.

8. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) operate in combination according to the second operation configuration ([X]), the controller, in response to receiving an input command (CM3) indicating the desired off state ([O]) of the switch device, commands the first switch unit (1) and the second switch unit (2) to switch to the third operation configuration ([O]).

9. The switching device according to claim 1, characterized in that, The controller (3) includes an interface portion (33) which includes one or more input ports adapted to receive input commands (CM1, CM2, CM3) indicating the desired operating state of the switching device.

10. The switching device according to claim 9, characterized in that, The switching device includes a human-machine interface (5) that communicates with the interface portion (33), the human-machine interface being adapted to provide the input commands (CM1, CM2, CM3) when interacting with a user.

11. The switching device according to claim 9 or 10, characterized in that, The interface portion (33) is capable of communicating with a remote computerized device (9) to receive the input commands (CM1, CM2, CM3).

12. The switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The controller (3) is included in the first switching unit (1).

13. The switching device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that, The switching device is of the withdrawable type.

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