Auxiliary module for an electrical switching device and related switching device and monitoring system

Abstract

The present invention relates to an auxiliary module (57) for an electrical switching device comprising an input, an output, a first housing and a switching module configured to switch between a first configuration in which the switching module allows current to flow between the input and the output and a second configuration in which the switching module blocks current, the first housing defining a chamber that houses the switching module and defining a space for receiving the auxiliary module (57), the space containing a signaling member configured to transmit information related to the state of the electrical switching device to the auxiliary module (57) when the auxiliary module (57) is in the space. The auxiliary module (57) comprises a controller (80) configured to generate a message and a radio frequency communication module (85) configured to transmit the message to a remote device via a radio frequency data link.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an auxiliary module for an electrical switching device. The invention also relates to an electrical switching device including such an auxiliary module. Background Technology

[0002] Electrical switching devices are used in a wide variety of equipment to control current, particularly to automatically interrupt current based on operator commands or in the event of an electrical fault, such as overvoltage, overcurrent, arcing, or even a short circuit.

[0003] Therefore, these devices play a vital role in the safety of the electrical equipment containing them, and it is important to be able to determine the state of each of these switching devices in order to ensure the proper operation of these devices. For example, after a fault is detected, determining that a switching device has disconnected the current usually involves correcting the fault before putting the equipment back into operation, whereas if the switching device is in its closed state, which allows current to flow, no intervention is required.

[0004] Therefore, it is known to use an auxiliary module, which can be added to some electrical switching devices to detect the state of the switching devices and transmit this information to a device for monitoring. For this purpose, the auxiliary module includes a mechanical element that is actuated by a corresponding component of the switching device according to the state of the switching device. The position of this mechanical element changes the characteristics of the auxiliary module's circuitry, which is connected to the monitoring device via one or more conductors. Thus, the modification of the current or voltage properties of one or more conductors informs the monitoring device about the state of the switching device.

[0005] However, the presence of electrical conductors connecting the auxiliary module to the monitoring device makes integration difficult, as the device integrating the auxiliary module must allow these conductors to pass through. Furthermore, if some conductors are damaged, the auxiliary module becomes inoperable because the signal it generates cannot be transmitted to the monitoring device.

[0006] Therefore, there is a need for an auxiliary module for electrical switching devices that can indicate the status of the switching device to a device located remotely from the switching device, and is easier to integrate and safer than existing auxiliary modules. Summary of the Invention

[0007] To this end, an auxiliary module for an electrical switching device is proposed, the electrical switching device including at least an input terminal, an output terminal, a first housing, and a switching module configured to switch between the first configuration and the second configuration. In the first configuration, the switching module allows current to flow between the input terminal and the output terminal, and in the second configuration, the switching module prevents current from flowing between the input terminal and the output terminal. The first housing defines a chamber for accommodating the switching module and also defines a space for receiving the auxiliary module. The space accommodates at least one signaling member configured to transmit first information related to the state of the electrical switching device to the auxiliary module when the auxiliary module is accommodated in the space. The auxiliary module includes a controller and a radio frequency communication module. The controller is configured to generate a message containing second information representing the transmitted first information, and the radio frequency communication module is configured to transmit the message to a device remote from the electrical switching device via a radio frequency data link.

[0008] Because of the use of an RF data link, there is no longer a need for a dedicated channel for the electrical conductors connecting the auxiliary module to the monitoring device, and the risk of communication loss between the auxiliary module and the monitoring device is reduced because it is no longer sensitive to damage to the electrical conductors. Therefore, the auxiliary module is easier to integrate and safer.

[0009] According to some advantageous but non-mandatory embodiments, the auxiliary module has one or more of the following features, which appear independently or in any technically possible combination:

[0010] The auxiliary module includes a second housing, a first printed circuit board, a second printed circuit board, and a movable element. The second housing defines a chamber for accommodating the first and second printed circuit boards. The first printed circuit board carries a controller and extends in a first plane. The second printed circuit board is connected to the first printed circuit board and extends from the first printed circuit board in a direction perpendicular to the first plane. The second printed circuit board carries circuitry connected to the controller. The movable element is configured to translate between a first position and a second position in a translational direction via a signaling member. In the first position, the circuit is open, while in the second position, the movable element closes the circuit. The state of the switching device is indicated by the open or closed state of the circuit.

[0011] - The translation direction is perpendicular to the second extended plane of the second printed circuit board, and the translation direction is particularly the direction in which the auxiliary module can be inserted into or extracted from the space.

[0012] - The second printed circuit board includes at least one protrusion inserted into a hole passing through the first printed circuit board to prevent relative translational movement of the two printed circuit boards relative to each other in a first plane.

[0013] - A first printed circuit board carries at least two first connection pads, a second printed circuit board carries at least two second connection pads, each first or second pad is carried by a face of a corresponding printed circuit board, each second pad is connected to one of the first connection pads to allow current to flow between the first and second connection pads, two or two of the second pads are connected to the circuit, and each first pad is soldered to a corresponding second pad via a conductive metal block.

[0014] - The second printed circuit board has two sides that define the second printed circuit board in a direction perpendicular to the second plane, and each of the two sides of the second printed circuit board carries at least one second connection pad.

[0015] - For at least one of the first or second pads of the printed circuit board under consideration, each printed circuit board includes a set of through holes through the printed circuit board in a direction perpendicular to the first or second extending plane of the printed circuit board under consideration, each through hole opening through the first or second pad and containing a metal element through the printed circuit board under consideration.

[0016] - The auxiliary module includes an energy storage component for providing power to the controller and communication module. The storage component extends in a third plane parallel to the first plane and has at least one side defining the storage component in the third plane. The storage component includes a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact and is configured to apply a voltage between the first and second contacts. The side carries the first electrical contact, which is connected to a third electrical contact carried by a second printed circuit board. The third electrical contact is connected to the controller and communication module via one of three or more second connection pads.

[0017] - The first printed circuit board includes a fourth electrical contact connected to the controller and the communication module, and a second electrical contact abutting against the fourth electrical contact.

[0018] The communication module includes an antenna comprising an area of ​​a first printed circuit board without any metal coating and an exciter configured to generate at least one electromagnetic wave in the area.

[0019] - An auxiliary module is used for a switching device, the first housing of which has a front side that is accessible to the operator when the switching device is in operation, wherein the actuator is located between the area and the front side when the auxiliary module is housed in the space.

[0020] - An auxiliary module is used for a switching device, the first housing of which has a front side that is accessible to the operator when the switching device is operated, wherein a first printed circuit board has a first end and a second end that together define a first plate in a first direction perpendicular to the front side, the first end being the end of the first end and the second end that is closer to the front side, wherein an antenna is carried by the first end.

[0021] An electrical switching device is also proposed, comprising at least an input terminal, an output terminal, a first housing, an auxiliary module as described above, and a switching module configured to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration. In the first configuration, the switching module allows current to flow between the input terminal and the output terminal, and in the second configuration, the switching module prevents current from flowing between the input terminal and the output terminal. The first housing defines a chamber for accommodating the switching module and also defines a space for receiving the auxiliary module. The space contains at least one signaling member configured to transmit first information related to the state of the electrical switching device to the auxiliary module when the auxiliary module is accommodated in the space.

[0022] According to one embodiment, a first housing defines a plurality of receiving spaces, each receiving space being configured to accommodate an auxiliary module as described above, each receiving space being associated with a corresponding state of an electrical switching device, the corresponding state being different from the state associated with each of the other receiving spaces, each receiving space accommodating a corresponding signaling component, the signaling component being configured to transmit first information related to the associated state to the auxiliary module when the auxiliary module is accommodated in the receiving space.

[0023] A system for monitoring electrical equipment is also proposed, comprising at least the switching device described above and a monitoring device configured to receive each message transmitted by one or more auxiliary modules. Attached Figure Description

[0024] The features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, which is given by way of non-limiting example only and with reference to the accompanying drawings, wherein:

[0025] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an example of a monitoring system including an auxiliary module according to the present invention.

[0026] Figure 2 This is a cross-sectional view of a first example of an auxiliary module according to the invention, which in particular includes two printed circuit boards.

[0027] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 Another cross-sectional view of the first example of the auxiliary module.

[0028] Figure 4 This is a perspective view of two boards in the first example of the auxiliary module.

[0029] Figure 5 This is another perspective view of the two boards in the first example of the auxiliary module.

[0030] Figure 6 This is a perspective view of two boards in the second example of the auxiliary module.

[0031] Figure 7 This is another perspective view of the two boards in the second example of the auxiliary module. Detailed Implementation

[0032] Figure 1 An example of a system 10 for monitoring electrical equipment is shown.

[0033] System 10 includes an electrical switch device 15 and a monitoring device 20.

[0034] The switching device 15 includes a first housing 25, an input terminal 30, an output terminal 35, a switching mechanism 40, a control module 45, at least one signal transmitting component 50, and at least one auxiliary module 57.

[0035] It should be noted that the number of input terminal 30, output terminal 35, switching mechanism 40, control module 45 and signal transmitting component 50 can easily vary.

[0036] For example, some embodiments of the switching device 15 readily include n input terminals 30, n output terminals 35, n switching mechanisms 40, and n control modules 45, where n is an integer strictly greater than 1, for example, between 2 and 4. As a variation, a single control module 45 readily exists and interacts with the n switching mechanisms 40 associated with the n input terminals 30 and the n output terminals 35.

[0037] The first housing 25 defines a first chamber 55 that accommodates at least the switching mechanism 40 and the control module 45. The first housing 25 is specifically configured to electrically insulate the switching mechanism 40 and the control module 45 from the outside of the first housing 25.

[0038] For example, the first housing 25 is made of an electrically insulating material such as polycarbonate.

[0039] The first housing 25 is, for example, a basic parallelepiped. However, other shapes of the first housing 25 are also conceivable.

[0040] The first housing 25 is intended, for example, to be secured in the space of the electrical equipment, such as to the wall or panel of the electrical enclosure.

[0041] The first housing 25 has a front 60.

[0042] In addition, the first housing 25 defines at least one space 65 for receiving the auxiliary module 57.

[0043] When the switch 15 is in operation, particularly when the switch 15 is integrated into an electrical device, the front face 60 is intended to be accessible to the operator. For example, the front face 60 includes one or more accessible components 70 for interacting with the switch 15.

[0044] Figure 1 Three directions, X, Y, and Z, are defined. These three directions, X, Y, and Z, are perpendicular to each other. When the switch device 15 is installed in the equipment, direction Z is, for example, the vertical direction. The front 60 is perpendicular to... Figure 1 The direction X in the middle.

[0045] Each space 65 is formed, for example, on the front 60.

[0046] Each space 65 is formed, for example, by a recess formed in the face of the first housing 25, particularly in the front face 60.

[0047] For example, each space 65 is defined by a corresponding wall of the first housing 25 and extends from the front 60 toward the interior of the first housing 25 in the direction X.

[0048] It will be apparent to those skilled in the art that directions other than X are also conceivable, and that each space 65 is readily openable on any face of the first housing 25.

[0049] Each space 65 specifically includes a corresponding signaling component 50.

[0050] Each space 65 is complementary to a corresponding auxiliary module 57, for example, so as to prevent any relative movement between the first housing 25 and the auxiliary module 57 when the auxiliary module is housed in the space 65, except for the movement of the auxiliary module 57 being withdrawn from the space 65.

[0051] Each space 65 is specifically designed to allow the insertion or removal of the auxiliary module 57 by translational movement of the auxiliary module 57 relative to the first housing 25 in the direction of extension of the space 65, which in the illustrated example is direction X.

[0052] One or more components 70 include, for example, components that can be actuated by an operator to control the switching mechanism 40 and / or the control module 45, particularly a rotating rod, or a set of elements that can indicate the state of the switching device 15 to the operator, such as one or more indicator lights.

[0053] Each input terminal 30 is configured to be connected to an electrical conductor in a manner known per se, particularly to an electrical conductor of a device containing a switching device 15. The input terminal 30 is formed, for example, by a connection terminal for securing the electrical conductor, enabling an electrical connection between the conductive portion of the input terminal 30 and the conductor.

[0054] Each input terminal 30 is specifically configured to receive current from the corresponding conductor and transmit the received current to the switching mechanism 40.

[0055] Each output terminal 35 is configured to be connected to an electrical conductor in a manner known per se, particularly to an electrical conductor of a facility containing the switching device 15. The output terminal 35 is formed, for example, by a connection terminal for securing the electrical conductor, thereby enabling an electrical connection between the conductive portion of the output terminal 35 and the conductor.

[0056] Each output terminal 35 is specifically configured to receive current from the switching mechanism 40 and transmit the received current to the corresponding conductor.

[0057] Each switching mechanism 40 is connected to the input terminal 30 and the corresponding output terminal 35.

[0058] Specifically, each switching mechanism 40 is connected to an input terminal 30 and an output terminal 35, which are arranged on opposite surfaces of a first housing 25, defining the housing 25 in the Z direction. In this configuration, each mechanism 40 extends substantially in the Z direction.

[0059] Each switching mechanism 40 is configured in a manner known per se to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0060] In the first configuration, the switching mechanism 40 allows current to flow between the corresponding input terminal 30 and the corresponding output terminal 35.

[0061] In the second configuration, the switching mechanism 40 electrically isolates the input terminal 30 from the output terminal 35.

[0062] The control module 45 is configured to control at least one switching mechanism 40 to switch between a first configuration and a second configuration.

[0063] For example, the control module 45 is configured in a manner known per se to detect electrical faults in the current flowing between the input terminal 30 and the corresponding output terminal 35, and to control the switching mechanism 40 connecting the input terminal 30 and the output terminal 35 from its first configuration to its second configuration. Faults may include, for example, arcing, overvoltage, undervoltage, overcurrent, or even a short circuit.

[0064] In this case, the switching device 15 is, for example, a circuit breaker.

[0065] As a variation or supplement, the control module 45 is configured to switch the switching mechanism 40 from its first configuration to its second configuration and vice versa upon receiving a command transmitted from a device remote from the switching device 15 (e.g., by the monitoring device 20). This command is, for example, an electrical signal transmitted by a conductor connecting the switching mechanism 40 to the remote device.

[0066] The control module 45 is controlled by a remote device and the switching device 15, which is not configured to detect faults, is sometimes referred to as a "relay" or "switch". However, it is also conceivable that a circuit breaker can be remotely controlled by another device.

[0067] As a variation or supplement, the control module 45 is configured to switch the switching mechanism 40 from its first configuration to its second configuration and vice versa after the operator actuates the special component 70 (in particular the lever).

[0068] It should be noted that, according to another variation, the switching mechanism 40 switches directly from the first configuration to the second configuration via component 70, and vice versa, without involving the control module 45.

[0069] Each signaling component 50 is associated with a space 65. For example, a signaling component 50 is at least partially housed within a space 65.

[0070] Each signaling component 50 is configured to transmit first information related to the state of the switching device 15 to the auxiliary module 57 housed in the relevant space 65.

[0071] Each signaling component 50 is configured, for example, to move at least a portion of the signaling component 50 between two positions according to the state of the switching device 15. Thus, the position of said portion indicates the state of the switching device 15.

[0072] The difference between the two positions is that at least a portion of the signaling component 50 moves in the direction X along the insertion space 65 of the auxiliary module 57 between the two positions.

[0073] Specifically, in one of the two positions, at least a portion of the signaling component 50 is accommodated in the space 65.

[0074] As a variation, the signaling member 50 includes an opening formed in one of the walls of the defining space 65, and a movable portion of the signaling member 50 is arranged in the chamber 55 facing the corresponding opening.

[0075] Each signaling element 50 is specifically configured to indicate a state or a different state of each other signaling element 50 (that is, a signaling element 50 associated with any other space 65).

[0076] For example, the signaling component 50 is configured to indicate whether the switching mechanism 40 is in its first configuration or its second configuration.

[0077] A signaling component 50 is configured, for example, to indicate, upon detecting a fault, whether the switching mechanism 40 has switched to its second configuration based on a command from the control module 45.

[0078] Another signaling component 50 is configured to, upon receiving a switching command from a remote device, indicate whether the switching mechanism 40 has switched to its second configuration according to a command from the control module 45.

[0079] Another signaling component 50 is specifically configured to indicate whether the switching mechanism 40 has switched to its second configuration after the operator actuates the component 70.

[0080] Each auxiliary module 57 is configured to be housed in a corresponding space 65. For example, when multiple spaces 65 exist, each auxiliary module 57 can be housed in any space 65 without distinction.

[0081] "Auxiliary module" is specifically understood to mean that auxiliary module 57 can be removed from switching device 15, and in particular, auxiliary module 57 can be extracted from the space 65 that houses it.

[0082] Furthermore, the switching device 15 can operate without any auxiliary module 57. In this case, the switching of the switching component 40 still occurs, but no information about the status of the switching device 15 is sent to the monitoring device 20.

[0083] The first example of auxiliary module 57 is in Figure 2 It is shown in the cross-section. Figure 2 The cross section is the cross section in the plane formed by directions X and Z when the auxiliary module 57 is accommodated in the corresponding space 65. Figure 3 A cross-section in plane BB, which is parallel to the plane formed by directions X and Y, is shown.

[0084] Each auxiliary module 57 is configured to receive first information related to the state of the switching device 15 from the signaling member 50 in the space into which the auxiliary module 57 is inserted.

[0085] Each auxiliary module 57 includes a second housing 75, a controller 80, a communication module 85, a device 90 for receiving first information, and an energy storage component 95.

[0086] In the embodiment shown in the accompanying drawings, the auxiliary module 57 further includes a first printed circuit board 100 and a second printed circuit board 105.

[0087] The second housing 75 defines a second chamber that houses the controller 80, the communication module 85, at least a portion of the device 90 for receiving first information, the energy storage component 95, the first printed circuit board 100, and the second printed circuit board 105.

[0088] The second housing 75 is made of an electrically insulating material to electrically insulate the controller 80, communication module 85, at least a portion of the device 90 for receiving the first information, energy storage component 95, first printed circuit board 100, and second printed circuit board 105 from the outside of the second housing 75.

[0089] The second housing 75 is made of, for example, polycarbonate.

[0090] The controller 80 is configured to receive first information transmitted by the signal transmitting member 50 from the receiving device 90. The controller 80 is also configured to generate a message containing second information to the monitoring device 20.

[0091] The second information is information that represents the first information received.

[0092] For example, controller 80 receives a first information in the form of a dual-level electrical signal on one of its ports, specifically an electrical signal having a non-zero voltage or current when switch 15 is in a first state and equal to zero when switch 15 is in a second state.

[0093] The second information includes, for example, a first numerical value (e.g., “0” or “1”) or a text value (e.g., “on” or “off”) that depends on the first information received, and optionally includes an identifier of the auxiliary module 57, such as a serial number.

[0094] The controller 80 is configured, for example, to generate a message when the state of the switching device 15 changes and is signaled by the signaling member 50, particularly when the controller 80 detects a change in the parameter value (especially voltage) of the received electrical signal.

[0095] As a variant, the controller 80 is configured to periodically generate messages, which then contain second information indicating the state of the switching device 15 when the message is generated.

[0096] The controller 80 is also configured to send messages to the communication module 85, for example, in the form of electrical signals, and to command the communication module 85 to transmit messages to the monitoring device 20.

[0097] The controller 80 is formed, for example, by a processor and a memory containing software instructions, which, when executed by the processor, cause the generation of messages and command their transmission.

[0098] As a variation, the controller 80 is formed by a set of dedicated electronic components (e.g., in the form of an application-specific integrated circuit or ASIC) or by a set of programmable logic components.

[0099] The communication module 85 is configured to transmit messages to the monitoring device 20 via a radio frequency data link.

[0100] This means that the communication module 85 is configured to convert the messages generated by the controller 80 into a set of radio frequency electromagnetic waves and transmit these electromagnetic waves to the monitoring device 20.

[0101] Radio frequency waves are electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 3 kHz and 6 GHz.

[0102] Specifically, the communication module 85 is configured to convert messages into a set of radio frequency electromagnetic waves with frequencies between 2.4 GHz and 2.4835 GHz.

[0103] According to one embodiment, the communication module 85 is configured to use the ZigBee communication protocol. The ZigBee protocol is defined by the ZigBee Alliance and is based on the IEEE 802.15.4 protocol defined by the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE).

[0104] The communication module 85 includes an antenna 110.

[0105] Antenna 110 includes exciter 115 and region 120 of first printed circuit board 100.

[0106] Exciter 115 is configured to generate a set of electromagnetic waves in region 120 intended for transmitting messages.

[0107] When the auxiliary module 57 is accommodated in the space 65, the exciter 115 is inserted specifically in the direction X of the space 65 between the auxiliary module 57 and the front 60.

[0108] The receiving device 90 is configured to receive first information from the signaling component 50 in the space 65 that houses the auxiliary module 57, and transmit the first information to the controller 80.

[0109] The receiving device 90 includes, for example, circuitry and a movable element 125.

[0110] The circuit is carried by one of two printed circuit boards 100 and 105, particularly by the second printed circuit board 105.

[0111] This circuit is electrically connected to controller 80.

[0112] The circuit is configured, for example, to be closed by a movable element 125. In particular, the circuit comprises two parts, each connected to the controller 80, and the movable element 125 is intended to contact the two parts of the circuit in order to close the circuit.

[0113] The circuit is connected, for example, to two ports of a controller 80 at its two ends. The controller 80 is configured to apply a potential difference between the two ports and to detect the closure or opening of the circuit, for example, based on a change in the potential difference or based on the presence or absence of current between the two ports.

[0114] The movable element 125 extends in one direction, such as the insertion direction X of the auxiliary module 57.

[0115] The movable element 125 is capable of translation in its extending direction, which is direction X.

[0116] The movable element 125 is specifically configured to move between a first position and a second position via a signaling member 50. In the first position, at least a portion of the movable element 125 is away from the circuit, and in the second position, the movable element 125 is in contact with the circuit and closes the circuit.

[0117] Movable element 125 Figure 2 It is shown in the first position.

[0118] The movable element 125 includes, in particular, a movable finger 130, a first spring 135, and a second spring 140.

[0119] The movable finger 130 extends, for example, in the direction of extension of the movable element 125, that is, in this case, in the direction X.

[0120] The movable finger 130 is particularly intended to pass through the surface defining the second housing 75 in the direction X, especially the surface facing the bottom of the space 65, i.e. the surface of the second housing 75 furthest from the front 60.

[0121] The movable finger 130 is made of, for example, an electrically insulating material.

[0122] The movable finger 130 has a first end 145 and a second end 150.

[0123] The first end 145 is housed inside the second housing 75.

[0124] The first end 145 is fastened to the first spring 135 and the second spring 140.

[0125] The first end 145 includes at least one conductive element that electrically connects the first spring 135 to the second spring 140. This conductive element is formed, for example, by a finger connecting the springs 135 and 140 to each other. For example, the finger is integrally formed with one of the two springs 135 and 140.

[0126] In a manner known per se, the first end 145 may optionally include one or more elements that help hold the first spring 135 and the second spring 140 in place relative to the first end 145.

[0127] The second end 150 is located inside the second housing 75.

[0128] The second end 150 is configured to abut against the signal transmitting member 50, such that the movement of the signal transmitting member 50 in the direction X applies a force to the second end 150, which tends to move the movable element 125 from the first position to the second position.

[0129] A first spring 135 abuts against a first end 145 and a second printed circuit board 105. Specifically, the first spring 135 is in contact with a portion of the circuitry carried by the second printed circuit board 105.

[0130] The first spring 135 applies a force to the first end 145, which tends to move the first end 145 away from the second printed circuit board 105.

[0131] The first spring 135 extends in the direction in which the movable element 125 wants to move, which is direction X.

[0132] One end of the second spring 140 is fastened to the first end 145.

[0133] The second spring 140 extends in the direction in which the movable element 125 wants to move, which is direction X.

[0134] The second spring 140 is configured such that when the movable element 125 is in the first position, the end of the second spring 140 that is not fastened to the first end 145 does not contact the second printed circuit board 105, and in particular, does not make electrical contact with the circuitry carried by the board 105. Therefore, when the movable element 125 is in the first position, the circuit is broken, and no current flows between the two corresponding ports of the controller 80.

[0135] When the movable element 125 is in the second position, the end of the second spring 140 that is not fastened to the first end 145 contacts the second printed circuit board 105, and in particular, makes electrical contact with the circuit it carries, so as to close the circuit.

[0136] Therefore, when the movable element 125 is in the second position, current can flow between the two corresponding terminals of the controller by continuously flowing through a part of the circuit, the first spring 135, the conductive element carried by the first end 145, the second spring 140 and another part of the circuit.

[0137] The storage component 95 is configured to store electrical energy and use the power supply current generated from the stored electrical energy to provide power to the controller 80 and the communication module 85.

[0138] The storage member 95 extends in an extending plane, which is specifically parallel to the plane formed by directions X and Z. In particular, the thickness of the storage member 95 in the Y direction is, for example, at least twice as small as the maximum extension of the storage member in the direction of its extending plane.

[0139] The storage component 95 has a side 155 and two end faces 160.

[0140] Side 155 defines storage member 95 in its extending plane. Side 155 is, for example, cylindrical and has a central axis perpendicular to the extending plane, and thus parallel to the direction Y.

[0141] Each end face 160 extends parallel to the extension plane of the storage member 95 and together defines the storage member 95 in the Y direction.

[0142] The storage component 95 includes a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, and is configured to apply a voltage between the first contact and the second contact to generate a supply current.

[0143] The first contact is carried by side 155. For example, the first contact is formed by part or all of side 155, in which case side 155 is made of conductive material.

[0144] The second contact is carried by one of the end faces 160, for example, formed by one of the end faces 160, in which case it is made of a conductive material.

[0145] The first example of auxiliary module 57, with its first and second printed circuit boards 100, 105, is shown in perspective view, and the components carried by these two boards 100, 105 are... Figure 4 and 5 It is presented from two different perspectives.

[0146] "Printed circuit board" 100, 105 is specifically understood to mean a substantially flat board comprising at least one electrically insulating material board carrying at least one layer of conductive material, each layer partially covering the surface of the board for electrically connecting a set of components, particularly electronic components and electrical contacts.

[0147] Each board is made of, for example, a composite material, particularly comprising a set of glass fibers held in an epoxy resin matrix or a plastic matrix, or made of a composite material such as FR4 or polyimide.

[0148] Each printed circuit board 100, 105 specifically includes a set of boards stacked along a direction perpendicular to a plane extending from the board 100, 105, with conductive layers inserted between each board and adjacent boards, and each face of the board 100, 105 also including a corresponding layer along the aforementioned direction, with each layer connected to each other through through-holes passing through one or more boards.

[0149] Each printed circuit board 100, 105 has a thickness, for example, between 0.5 mm and 5 mm, particularly equal to 0.8 mm (measured in a direction perpendicular to the extending plane of the board 100, 105 under consideration).

[0150] The thickness of each conductive layer is, for example, between 10 micrometers (μm) and 50 μm, and in particular equal to 35 μm.

[0151] The first printed circuit board 100 extends in a plane parallel to the direction in which the auxiliary module 57 is configured to be inserted into or extracted from the space 65, particularly in a plane parallel to the directions X and Z.

[0152] Specifically, the extension plane of the first printed circuit board 100 is parallel to the extension plane of the storage member 95.

[0153] The first printed circuit board 100 carries the controller 80 and the communication module 85, particularly the exciter 115 of the antenna 110.

[0154] The first printed circuit board 100 also carries at least two first connection pads 165, such as three first connection pads 165, and a third electrical contact 170, as well as a set of electrical or electronic components, which are not described because they are easily varied from one embodiment to another.

[0155] The first printed circuit board 100 has a first side 175 (on) Figure 4 (visible in the middle) and the second side 180 (in the middle) Figure 5 (See in the middle), as well as the third end 185 and the fourth end 190.

[0156] Faces 175 and 180 define the first printed circuit board 100 in the Y direction, and ends 185 and 190 define the first printed circuit board 100 in the X direction, that is, the auxiliary module 57 is intended to be withdrawn from or inserted into the space 65.

[0157] The first side 175 carries the controller 80, the actuator 115 and the third electrical contact 170.

[0158] Region 120 is the region of the first plate 100 without metal. In particular, each surface of the first plate 100 is without metal in region 120, especially the aforementioned layer. Therefore, surfaces 175 and 180 are without metal in region 120.

[0159] Region 120 has, for example, a rectangular or square shape in the extended plane of plate 100.

[0160] Region 120 has, for example, an edge with a length between 4 mm and 4.5 mm in the extended plane of plate 100.

[0161] Region 120 is specifically surrounded in the extended plane of plate 100 by a set of conductive elements that pass through the first plate 100 in a direction perpendicular to the extended plane of the first plate 100, here in the direction Y, and each conductive element is connected to the ground of auxiliary module 57.

[0162] Conductive elements passing through the first plate 100 are arranged, for example, along the outline of region 120 in an extended plane that at least partially defines the plate 100, and the distance between two consecutive conductive elements is, for example, between 1 and 3 millimeters.

[0163] Antenna 110 is arranged at the third end 185 of the first printed circuit board 100.

[0164] When the auxiliary module 57 is housed in the space 65, the third end 185 of ends 185 and 190 is closer to the front 60 of the switching device 15.

[0165] Specifically, in the insertion direction X of the auxiliary module 57, the distance between the exciter 115 and the front face 60 is between 5 mm and 10 mm.

[0166] The length of the first printed circuit board 100, measured along direction X between ends 185 and 190, is, for example, between 20 mm and 30 mm, and particularly between 26 mm and 27 mm.

[0167] Each first connection pad 165 is carried, for example, by a first surface 175.

[0168] Each first connection pad 165 is electrically connected to the controller 80.

[0169] Specifically, two circuits in the first connection pad 165 are intended to be electrically connected to the receiving device 90, and to two ports of the controller 80, so as to connect these ports to the circuits.

[0170] Another first connection pad 165 is also connected to the controller 80 and is designed to receive the power supply current generated by the storage component 95 from the second board 105 and to transmit the current directly or indirectly to the controller 80 and / or the communication module 85.

[0171] Each first connection pad 165 is formed of a conductive material layer carried by a first side 175 or a second side 180, as appropriate. This layer is particularly a portion of the aforementioned layer deposited on each side of the board or inserted between two adjacent boards.

[0172] Conductive materials, especially copper.

[0173] Each first connection pad 165 has, for example, a thickness of 1 mm. 2 and 10mm 2 The surface area between them, especially equal to 4mm 2 .

[0174] Each first connection pad 165 is rectangular, for example, in the extended plane of the first board 100.

[0175] Each first connection pad 165 is, for example, traversed by at least one reinforcing element 195.

[0176] Each reinforcing element 195 extends in a direction perpendicular to the extension plane of the first printed circuit board 100, here in the direction Y.

[0177] Each reinforcing element 195 passes through the first printed circuit board 100 and is open on its two sides 175, 180. In addition, each reinforcing element 195 has two ends, each end forming a protrusion from the sides 175, 180.

[0178] Each reinforcing element 195 is housed in a through-hole, that is, it passes at least partially, and in the present case completely, through a hole in the first printed circuit board 100 in the Y direction.

[0179] Each reinforcing element 195 is, for example, a tube extending in the direction Y, and has a collar at each end, the diameter of which is larger than the portion of the reinforcing element 195 inserted in the direction Y between the two collars.

[0180] Each reinforcing element 195 has, for example, an outer diameter between 0.3 mm and 0.4 mm in its central portion, which is fully accommodated within the corresponding through-hole, and is specifically equal to the diameter of the through-hole, which is, for example, equal to 0.35 mm. The inner diameter of the central portion is, for example, between 0.2 mm and 0.3 mm.

[0181] The outer diameter of each collar is strictly larger than the diameter of the through hole, and is, for example, between 0.4 mm and 0.6 mm, and in particular equal to 0.50 mm within 0.05 mm.

[0182] The collar protruding from the first face 175 also forms a protrusion from the first connecting pad 165, through which the reinforcing element 195 passes.

[0183] Each reinforcing element 195 is obtained, for example, by depositing a metallic material, particularly copper, in the corresponding through-hole. This deposition is known in itself for electrically connecting conductive layers carried by different boards of a printed circuit board or different sides of the same board.

[0184] The third electrical contact 170 is designed such that the second electrical contact of the storage component 95 abuts against the third electrical contact 170, and the second electrical contact is at least electrically connected to the controller 80.

[0185] The third electrical contact 170 is, for example, a metal component formed of a folded plate, so that it can be deformed by abutting against the storage member 95. Thus, the third electrical contact 170 ensures a good electrical connection between the third contact 170 and the second contact, while still allowing a small clearance between the storage member 95 and the first printed circuit board 100.

[0186] The end face 160 forming the second electrical contact abuts against the third contact 170 in order to apply a force oriented in the direction X thereon.

[0187] The second printed circuit board 105 extends from the first printed circuit board 100 in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extension plane (X,Z) of the first board 100.

[0188] For example, the second plate 105 extends in a plane perpendicular to the direction X.

[0189] Specifically, the second printed circuit board 105 extends in the Y direction between the fifth end 200 and the sixth end 205.

[0190] "Extending in a direction substantially perpendicular to the extending plane (X,Z) of the first plate 100" is understood to specifically mean that the end 200 is offset from the first plate 100 in the direction Y, and the second plate 105 contacts the first plate 100 at least at one point, and the second plate 105 does not necessarily have to be perpendicular to the direction X.

[0191] The second printed circuit board 105 is fastened to the first board 100.

[0192] At least a portion of the second plate 105, located between ends 200 and 205, is accommodated, for example, in a hole passing through the first plate 100 in the direction Y.

[0193] As a variant, such as Figure 5 As shown, the sixth end 205 includes one or more protrusions 210, each protrusion being received in a corresponding hole.

[0194] Therefore, a "mortise and tenon" fastening is achieved between the first printed circuit board 100 and the second printed circuit board 105.

[0195] One or more portions of the second plate 105, which are inserted into one or more corresponding holes of the first plate 100, are specifically configured to prevent translational movement in the extended plane of the first plate 100 between the plates 100 and 105 when it or they are inserted into one or more corresponding holes.

[0196] Each hole that accommodates a portion of the second plate 105 defines, for example, one or more first connection pads 165 in an extended plane of the first plate 100.

[0197] The distance between the first printed circuit board 100 and the fifth terminal 200 in the Y direction is, for example, less than or equal to 20 mm, particularly less than or equal to 15 mm, particularly equal to 8.5 mm.

[0198] The second printed circuit board 105 has a third side 215 and a fourth side 220, which together define the second board 105 in the direction X.

[0199] Of surfaces 215 and 220, the third surface 215 is closer to the front surface 60 when the auxiliary module 57 is housed in space 65. The fourth surface 220 faces the movable element 125, which is configured to abut against the fourth surface 220 when in the second position. In particular, the second spring 140 abuts against the fourth surface 220. The circuitry is carried, in particular, by the fourth surface 220.

[0200] The second printed circuit board 105 carries the aforementioned circuitry (which interacts with the movable element 125), at least two second connection pads 225, particularly three second connection pads 225, and a fourth electrical contact 230.

[0201] Each second connection pad 225 is formed by a layer of conductive material supported by a third side 215 or a fourth side 220, as appropriate. This layer is particularly a portion of the aforementioned layer deposited on each side of the board or between two adjacent boards.

[0202] Conductive materials, especially copper.

[0203] Specifically, each of surfaces 215 and 220 carries at least one second connection pad 225. For example, as Figure 4 As shown, surface 215 has two second connection pads 225, and surface 220 has at least one second connection pad 225.

[0204] Each second connection pad 225 has, for example, a thickness of 3mm. 2 and 10mm 2 The surface area between them, especially equal to 6mm 2 .

[0205] Each second connection pad 225 is rectangular, for example, in the extended plane of the second board 105.

[0206] Each second connection pad 225 is, for example, traversed by one or more reinforcing elements 195, which pass through the second plate 105 in the X direction, and these reinforcing elements are particularly the same as those of the first pad 165.

[0207] Each second connection pad 225 is configured to be electrically connected to the corresponding first connection pad 165.

[0208] When the second board 105 is inserted into one or more holes in the first board 100, each second connection pad 225 is specifically defined in the extended plane of the second board 105 by a corresponding first connection pad 165. Thus, the second connection pads 225 and the corresponding first connection pads 165 together form a square.

[0209] According to one embodiment, each second connection pad 225 is soldered to the corresponding first connection pad 165 via a metal block.

[0210] The metal is, for example, a tin-based alloy.

[0211] Specifically, each metal block is directly fastened to the second connection pad 225 and the first connection pad 165 to connect the second connection pad 225 and the first connection pad 165.

[0212] In addition, each metal block is connected to a reinforcing element 195 to which the block is fastened, specifically a collar of each reinforcing element 195 extending beyond each pad 165, 225.

[0213] Two second connection pads 225 are each connected, for example, to one end of the circuit that the movable element 125 is intended to close. Each of these two second connection pads 225 is connected to a port of the controller 80 via a corresponding first connection pad 165.

[0214] The third second pad 225 is electrically connected to the fourth electrical contact 230 via one or more conductive layers of the second plate 105, so that the fourth electrical contact 230 is connected to the controller 80 and / or the communication module 85 via a corresponding pad 165. Therefore, the storage component 95 provides power to various components of the auxiliary module 57, particularly the controller 80 and the communication module 85, via the contact 230 and the corresponding second pad 225.

[0215] The fourth contact 230 is electrically connected (particularly by abutting) the first electrical contact of the storage component 95.

[0216] The fourth contact 230 is carried, for example, by surface 215.

[0217] The fourth contact 230 is formed, for example, by one or more flexible metal elements designed to deform when the storage member 95 abuts against the fourth contact 230.

[0218] The fourth contact 230 is specifically configured to apply a force to the storage member 95, which tends to move the storage member 95, for example, in the direction X, within a plane formed by directions X and Z.

[0219] The monitoring device 20 is located away from the switching device 15. In particular, the monitoring device 20 does not come into contact with the switching device 15. Furthermore, the monitoring device 20 includes a separate housing, for example, located away from the first housing 60.

[0220] The distance between devices 15 and 20 is, for example, less than or equal to 100 meters.

[0221] The monitoring device 20 is configured to receive messages transmitted by each auxiliary module 57 and indicate to the operator each state of one or more switching devices 15.

[0222] The monitoring device 20 includes, for example, a radio frequency receiver 235, a human-machine interface 240, and a display screen 245.

[0223] Receiver 235 is configured to receive each message generated by one or more communication modules 85 of one or more auxiliary modules 57.

[0224] The human-machine interface 240 allows the operator to exchange information with the monitoring device 20, for example, to command the screen 245 to display the status of a specific switch 15 among all the switch devices 15.

[0225] Because of the use of an RF data link, there is no longer a need for a dedicated channel for the electrical conductors connecting the auxiliary module to the monitoring device, and the risk of communication loss between the auxiliary module and the monitoring device is reduced because it is no longer sensitive to damage to the electrical conductors. Therefore, the auxiliary module is easier to integrate and more secure.

[0226] The use of two printed circuit boards 100 and 105 (one extending in a direction perpendicular to the other) allows board 105 to easily interact with the movable member 125 to indicate the state of the switching device 15, while still allowing the other board 100 to be more easily positioned within the auxiliary module 57. Therefore, the various components carried by boards 100 and 105 (controller 80, communication module 85, any contacts 170 and 230) can be distributed across these two boards 100 and 105 to allow for selection or adaptation of their respective dimensions, facilitating integration into the second housing 75.

[0227] Specifically, when the second plate 105 is perpendicular to the direction X in which the auxiliary module 57 is to be inserted into or withdrawn from the space 65, the movable member 125 can extend in the same direction X, thereby being easily actuated by the actuating device, without either the movable member 125 or the actuating device obstructing the insertion of the auxiliary module 57 into the space 65. Furthermore, the movable member 125 then reliably disconnects or closes the circuitry carried by the plate 105.

[0228] One or more protrusions of the second plate 105 inserted into the first plate 100 are used to prevent translational movement of the second plate 105 relative to the first plate 100, so that they can be easily and effectively joined together, especially to withstand the force applied to the plate 105 in the X direction by the movable member 125.

[0229] Welding the corresponding pads 165 and 225 to each other also makes it possible to hold the two plates 100 and 105 in the proper position relative to each other, and in particular to prevent the two plates from pivoting relative to each other under the force applied by the member 125.

[0230] When each of the two sides of the second plate 105 is soldered to at least one second pad 225 of the corresponding pad 165, the mechanical strength of the two plates 100, 105 relative to each other is particularly improved.

[0231] Because the metal blocks used for soldering are connected not only to the pads 165 and 225, which are composed of relatively thin metal layers, but also to the reinforcing element 195, which passes through the entire board 100, 105, the presence of the reinforcing element 195 in the through-holes leading to the pads 165, 225 enhances mechanical strength. Therefore, the force is distributed across the entire thickness of the board 100, 105, and not just on the pads 165, 225, thus greatly reducing the risk of tearing of the pads 165, 225.

[0232] The presence of two plates 100 and 105 extending in opposite directions also facilitates the easy connection of the two contacts of the storage member 95, especially in configurations of multiple storage members 95, particularly if they are supported by mutually perpendicular surfaces 155 and 160 of the storage member 95. In particular, for relatively flat members 95, this makes it easier for them to be oriented parallel to the plane (X,Z), thereby contributing to a reduction in the thickness of the auxiliary module 57 in the Y direction. Therefore, since the switching devices 15 are generally designed such that their included conductors and mechanisms 40 extend in the Z direction, the auxiliary module 57 can be easily inserted between these different elements. Of course, the advantage of a thin module 57 remains regardless of the orientation of the mechanism 40.

[0233] The antenna 110, including the exciter 115 and the metal-free region 120, allows for relatively isotropic electromagnetic radiation, and thus avoids the reliability of communication with the device 20 from depending undue on its positioning relative to the switching device 15. This is especially true when the exciter 115 is located between region 120 and front 60.

[0234] When antenna 110 is carried by end 185, communication is more reliable despite the presence of metal conductors and switching elements 40.

[0235] Now refer to Figure 6 and 7 A second example of the auxiliary module 57 according to the present invention is described. Figure 6 and 7 The plates 100 and 105 are shown, along with the components they carry, particularly the controller 80 and the antenna 110.

[0236] Components identical to those in the first example will not be described again; only the differences will be highlighted.

[0237] A portion 250 of the second plate 105 extends from one side of the first plate 100, and another portion 255 extends from the other side of the plate 100.

[0238] For example, portion 250 extends along direction Y from face 175 of the carrier controller 80 and communication module 85. Portion 250 carries, for example, pad 225.

[0239] Part 255 extends from face 180 along direction Y. Part 255 carries, for example, a fourth electrical contact 230.

[0240] Therefore, it can be seen that multiple configurations of boards 100 and 105 are possible.

[0241] Generally, the distribution of various components carried by plates 100 and 105 can be easily varied as needed.

[0242] Furthermore, although embodiments comprising two boards 100 and 105 have been described in detail herein, other embodiments without printed circuit boards or having a single board are also conceivable.

Claims

1. An auxiliary module (57) for an electrical switching device (15), the electrical switching device (15) including at least an input terminal (30), an output terminal (35), a first housing (25), and a switching module (40) configured to switch between the first configuration and the second configuration, wherein in the first configuration, the switching module (40) allows current to flow between the input terminal (30) and the output terminal (35), and in the second configuration, the switching module (40) prevents current from flowing between the input terminal (30) and the output terminal (35), the first housing (25) defining a chamber (55) for accommodating the switching module (40), the first housing (25) further defining a space (65) for receiving the auxiliary module (57), the space (65) including at least one signaling member (50) configured to transmit first information related to the state of the electrical switching device (15) to the auxiliary module (57) when the auxiliary module (57) is accommodated in the space (65). The auxiliary module (57) is characterized in that it includes a controller (80) and a radio frequency communication module (85), the controller being configured to generate a message containing second information representing the first information transmitted, and the radio frequency communication module being configured to transmit the message to a device (20) remote from the electrical switching device (15) via a radio frequency data link. The auxiliary module also includes a second housing (75), a first printed circuit board (100), a second printed circuit board (105), and a movable element (125). The second housing (75) defines a chamber for accommodating the first printed circuit board (100) and the second printed circuit board (105). The first printed circuit board (100) carries the controller (80) and extends in a first plane. The second printed circuit board (105) is connected to the first printed circuit board (100) and extends from the first printed circuit board (100) in a direction perpendicular to the first plane. The second printed circuit board (105) carries circuitry connected to the controller (80). The movable element (125) is configured to translate between a first position and a second position in a translational direction (X) via the signaling member (50). In the first position, the circuit is open, while in the second position, the movable element (125) closes the circuit. The state of the switching device (15) is indicated by the open or closed state of the circuit.

2. The auxiliary module according to claim 1, wherein, The translation direction (X) is perpendicular to the second extended plane of the second printed circuit board (105), and the auxiliary module (57) is capable of being inserted into or extracted from the space (65) along the translation direction (X).

3. The auxiliary module according to claim 2, wherein, The second printed circuit board (105) includes at least one protrusion (210) inserted through a hole in the first printed circuit board (100) to prevent relative translational movement of the two printed circuit boards (100, 105) relative to each other in the first plane.

4. The auxiliary module according to claim 2, wherein, The first printed circuit board (100) carries at least two first connection pads (165), and the second printed circuit board (105) carries at least two second connection pads (225). Each first or second pad (165, 225) is carried by a face (175, 180, 215, 220) of the corresponding printed circuit board (100, 105). Each second pad (225) is connected to one of the first connection pads (165) to allow current to flow between the first connection pad (165) and the second connection pad (225). Two or two of the two second pads (225) are connected to the circuit. Each first pad (165) is soldered to the corresponding second pad (225) by a conductive metal block.

5. The auxiliary module according to claim 4, wherein, The second printed circuit board (105) has two sides (215, 220) defining the second printed circuit board (105) in a direction (X) perpendicular to the second extending plane, each of the two sides (215, 220) of the second printed circuit board (105) carrying at least one of the second connection pads (225).

6. The auxiliary module according to claim 5, wherein, For at least one of the first or second pads (165, 225) of the considered printed circuit boards (100, 105), each printed circuit board (100, 105) includes a set of through holes passing through the printed circuit board (100, 105) in a direction perpendicular to the first or second extending plane of the considered printed circuit board (100, 105), each through hole opening through the first or second pad (165, 225) and containing a metal element (195) passing through the considered printed circuit board (100, 105).

7. The auxiliary module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, comprising an energy storage member (95) for supplying power to the controller (80) and the communication module (85), the storage member (95) extending in a third plane parallel to the first plane and having at least one side (155) defining the storage member (95) in the third plane, the storage member (95) including a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact and configured to apply a voltage between the first contact and the second contact, the side (155) carrying the first electrical contact, the first electrical contact being connected to a third electrical contact (230) carried by the second printed circuit board (105), the third electrical contact (230) being connected to the controller (80) and the communication module (85) via one of the second connection pads (225), three or more of the second connection pads (225) being present.

8. The auxiliary module according to claim 7, wherein, The first printed circuit board (100) includes a fourth electrical contact (170) connected to the controller (80) and the communication module (85), and the second electrical contact abuts against the fourth electrical contact (170).

9. The auxiliary module according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The communication module (85) includes an antenna (110) comprising a region (120) of the first printed circuit board (100) without any metal coating and an exciter (115) configured to generate at least one electromagnetic wave in the region (120).

10. The auxiliary module according to claim 9, for a switching device (15), the first housing (25) of the switching device (15) having a front side (60) for access by an operator when the switching device (15) is operated, wherein, When the auxiliary module (57) is housed in the space (65), the actuator (115) is located between the region (120) and the front (60).

11. The auxiliary module according to claim 10, for a switching device (15), the first housing (25) of the switching device (15) having a front face (60) for access by an operator when the switching device (15) is operated, wherein, The first printed circuit board (100) has a first end (185) and a second end (190), the first end (185) and the second end (190) together define the first printed circuit board (100) in a first direction (X) perpendicular to the front side (60), the first end (185) is the end (185, 190) of the first end (185) and the second end (190) that is closer to the front side (60), wherein the antenna (110) is carried by the first end (185).

12. An electrical switching device comprising at least an input terminal (30), an output terminal (35), a first housing (25), an auxiliary module (57) according to any one of the preceding claims, and a switching module (40) configured to switch between the first configuration and the second configuration, wherein in the first configuration, the switching module (40) allows current to flow between the input terminal (30) and the output terminal (35), and in the second configuration, the switching module (40) prevents current from flowing between the input terminal (30) and the output terminal (35), the first housing (25) defining a chamber (55) for accommodating the switching module (40), and the first housing (25) further defining a space (65) for receiving the auxiliary module (57), the space (65) including at least one signaling member (50) configured to transmit first information relating to the state of the electrical switching device (15) to the auxiliary module (57) when the auxiliary module (57) is accommodated in the space (65).

13. The electrical switching device according to claim 12, wherein, The first housing (25) defines a plurality of receiving spaces (65), each receiving space being configured to accommodate an auxiliary module (57) according to any one of claims 1 to 11, each receiving space (65) being associated with a corresponding state of the electrical switching device (15), the corresponding state being different from the state associated with each other receiving space (65), each receiving space (65) containing a corresponding signaling member (50) configured to transmit first information related to the associated state to the auxiliary module (57) when the auxiliary module (57) is accommodated in the receiving space (65).

14. A system for monitoring electrical equipment, comprising at least a switching device (15) according to claim 12 or 13 and a monitoring device (20), the monitoring device (20) being configured to receive each message transmitted by one or more auxiliary modules (57).

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