Circuit breaker

Abstract

The circuit breaking device includes a conductive path, a pyrotechnic circuit breaker, a plurality of drive circuits connected in parallel to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker for actuating the pyrotechnic circuit breaker, and a control circuit, and in addition, the control circuit individually sets an output current value and an output period for the drive circuits at the time when actuation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, and supplies power for actuation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker from the drive circuits.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to circuit breaking devices used in various vehicle electrical equipment. Background Technology

[0002] The following describes conventional circuit breaking devices. Conventional circuit breaking devices include a pyro-fuse and a pyro-fuse drive circuit. In particular, multiple current detection units are provided in the pyro-fuse drive circuit. By comparing the current values ​​detected by each current detection unit, fault determination of the current detection unit is made, and measures are taken to suppress malfunctions of the pyro-fuse drive circuit.

[0003] In addition, prior art literature information associated with the disclosure of this application, such as known patent document 1, is also available.

[0004] Existing technical documents

[0005] Patent documents

[0006] Patent Document 1: International Publication No. 2019 / 084304 Summary of the Invention

[0007] However, conventional circuit breakers can determine or diagnose faults in the various current detection units in the fuse drive circuit, allowing the fuse drive circuit to continue operating without using information from faulty current detection units. But on the other hand, if the fuse drive circuit itself cannot drive properly, there is a problem that the reliability of the circuit breaker's operation may decrease.

[0008] The present disclosure is characterized by including: a conductive circuit; a pyrotechnic circuit breaker capable of irreversibly breaking the conductive circuit; a plurality of drive circuits capable of supplying power to operate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker, connected in parallel with the pyrotechnic circuit breaker; and a control circuit capable of controlling the operation of the plurality of drive circuits, wherein when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, the control circuit individually sets the output current value and output time period (output period) for the plurality of drive circuits, thereby supplying the plurality of drive circuits with power for the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker.

[0009] According to this disclosure, multiple drive circuits are provided for operating the pyrotechnic circuit breaker. Furthermore, these drive circuits are connected in parallel with respect to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker, ensuring redundancy even if some drive circuits fail. Therefore, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker can operate with high reliability. Moreover, the multiple drive circuits can individually set different values ​​for their output current or the output time period, allowing them to supply power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker according to the specific situation. As a result, the operational reliability of the circuit breaker is improved. Attached Figure Description

[0010] Figure 1 This is a first circuit block diagram illustrating the structure of a circuit breaker device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0011] Figure 2 This is a second circuit block diagram illustrating the structure of a circuit breaker device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 3 This is an operation curve diagram of the circuit breaker device according to an embodiment of this disclosure. Detailed Implementation

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described using the accompanying drawings.

[0014] (Implementation Method)

[0015] Figure 1 This is a first circuit block diagram illustrating the structure of a circuit breaker device according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. The circuit breaker device 1 includes: a conductive path 2; a pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3; a first drive circuit 4, a second drive circuit 5, a third drive circuit 6, and a fourth drive circuit 7, which are multiple drive circuits; and a control circuit 8. The pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 can irreversibly break the conductive path 2. The first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, which are connected in parallel with the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3, can supply power to operate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, the control circuit 8 can control the operation of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7.

[0016] When the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be operated, the control circuit 8 supplies power from the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to operate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. The control circuit 8 individually controls the output current value and output time period for the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7.

[0017] As described above, to enable the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 to operate, a first drive circuit 4, a second drive circuit 5, a third drive circuit 6, and a fourth drive circuit 7 are provided as multiple drive circuits. Furthermore, since the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 are connected in parallel with respect to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker, even if one of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 fails, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 are redundantly configured. Therefore, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 can operate with high reliability. Furthermore, the output current value and output time period of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can be individually controlled, and the output current value and output time period of each of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can be set to different values. In other words, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can supply power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 according to the situation. As a result, the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1 can be improved.

[0018] The following details the circuit breaker 1. Figure 1 , Figure 2 The second circuit block diagram showing the structure of the circuit breaker device according to the embodiments of the present disclosure and Figure 3 The operation curves of the circuit breaker device according to the embodiments of this disclosure will be used for explanation.

[0019] The circuit breaker 1 includes: a conductive circuit 2; a pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3; a first drive circuit 4, a second drive circuit 5, a third drive circuit 6, and a fourth drive circuit 7 as multiple drive circuits; and a control circuit 8. The circuit breaker 1 is mounted on the body 10 of the vehicle 9, and the power for the operation of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, the fourth drive circuit 7, and the control circuit 8 is supplied by a power source 11.

[0020] exist Figure 1 and Figure 2 In this embodiment, the power supply 11 is shown as being mounted on the vehicle body 10, but the power supply 11 may also be included in the circuit breaker 1. Furthermore, the power supply 11 is a capacitor or battery that stores power supplied from a vehicle battery (not shown) in a boosted state. Alternatively, the power supply 11 is a power supply device that includes a capacitor or battery. Moreover, in the circuit breaker 1, since responsiveness is important, it is preferable to have a capacitor in the power supply 11 capable of supplying power at a high current density.

[0021] Furthermore, the conductive circuit 2 is configured to supply power from the vehicle propulsion drive power supply (not shown) to the vehicle propulsion drive load (not shown). Also, for example, a current detector 12 capable of detecting the current flowing through the conductive circuit 2 is provided in the vehicle body 10 or the circuit breaker 1. When the current detector 12 detects an overcurrent, the control circuit 8 uses a portion of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, or a portion of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, to activate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. By activating the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3, the conductive circuit 2 is physically destroyed, becoming an irreversible open circuit.

[0022] The first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 are configured to be connected in parallel with respect to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, each of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can provide power to operate a single pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0023] The control circuit 8 can control the operation of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7. As mentioned above, in cases where the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to operate, such as when an overcurrent is detected, the control circuit 8 supplies power to the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to operate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. The control circuit 8 can individually control the output current value and output time period for the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7.

[0024] The pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is installed to maintain the safety of vehicle 9. Therefore, even if a portion of the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 fails, the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 are redundantly configured. Thus, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 can operate with high reliability. The first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 have substantially the same characteristics. In other words, the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 are drive devices for the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 that can output the same voltage, the same current, and have the same power capacity. Furthermore, with all circuit breaker 1 in good working order and with power supply 11 in good working order, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 perform essentially the same operation, and as a sum of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, a first current I1 can be supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0025] For example, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can operate with substantially consistent periods of power output. Furthermore, even if the periods of power output differ for the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, it is sufficient that they repeatedly output power for the same period. Therefore, it is sufficient that the sum of power from the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can supply the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0026] The output current value and output time period of each of the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 can be individually controlled, and each can be set to different values. In other words, even when the conditions of all components of the circuit breaker 1 being in good working order and the power supply 11 being in good working order are not met, the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 can supply power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 according to the situation. As a result, the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1 can be improved.

[0027] like Figure 2 As shown, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first power supply circuit 4A, a second power supply circuit 5A, a third power supply circuit 6A, and a fourth power supply circuit 7A capable of setting the output current and output voltage, respectively. Furthermore, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first switch 4B, a second switch 5B, a third switch 6B, and a fourth switch 7B capable of switching between open and closed states, respectively. Moreover, the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B may be connected in series. Similarly, the second power supply circuit 5A and the second switch 5B, the third power supply circuit 6A and the third switch 6B, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A and the fourth switch 7B may be connected in series.

[0028] exist Figure 1 The diagram below is a simplified version of the original diagram, but strictly speaking, it is as follows: Figure 2As shown, an ignition resistor 3C is provided in the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, the power supply from the first drive circuit 4 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is performed by supplying a constant current from the first power supply circuit 4A of the constant current power supply to the ignition resistor 3C connected to the first node 3A and the second node 3B via the first switch 4B. This results in a connection where the first node 3A is the high-potential side and the second node 3B is the low-potential side. More precisely, the first switch 4B is equipped with a high-potential switch 4H connected to the first node 3A and a low-potential switch 4L connected to the second node 3B. The high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are controlled by the control circuit 8 to perform the same operation simultaneously. Alternatively, the high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are controlled by the control circuit 8 to be in a connected or open state at different timings (points of time). Figure 2 The example shown illustrates a configuration where the high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are respectively located on the high-potential side and the low-potential side. However, it is also possible to configure only one of the high-potential switch 4H or the low-potential switch 4L.

[0029] Similarly, the constant current supplied from the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A of the constant current power supply is supplied to the ignition resistor 3C connected to the first node 3A and the second node 3B via the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. Furthermore, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are equipped with a high-potential switch (not shown) connected to the first node 3A and a low-potential switch (not shown) connected to the second node 3B. The high-potential switch (not shown) and the low-potential switch (not shown) are controlled by the control circuit 8 to perform the same operation simultaneously. Alternatively, it is also possible to not have the high-potential switch (not shown) and the low-potential switch (not shown) separately located on the high-potential side and the low-potential side, but rather to have only one of the two switches (not shown).

[0030] When the operation of the fire circuit breaker 3 is not required, specifically, this can be in the following situations: immediately after vehicle 9 starts without propulsion, during a stop where vehicle 9 has started but propulsion has stopped, or during propulsion (movement) of vehicle 9. Alternatively, it can be just before vehicle 9 starts or stops. Furthermore, fault diagnosis and voltage detection can be performed once or periodically at specified intervals.

[0031] Furthermore, the fault diagnosis of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 performed by the control circuit 8 can be performed as follows.

[0032] For example, the determination can be performed based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when a weak current is supplied from the first drive circuit 4 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, the fault determination can be performed similarly for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0033] For example, the control circuit 8 can perform fault determination for the first drive circuit 4, including the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B, based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit 3 when the first switch 4B is opened and closed, caused by activating the first power supply circuit 4A and enabling it to output a weak current at a level that prevents the pyrotechnic circuit 3 from operating. Furthermore, fault determination can be performed similarly for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0034] Furthermore, for example, control circuit 8 can also perform fault determination for the first drive circuit 4, including the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B, based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit 3 when the first switch 4B is opened and closed, by activating a test power supply (not shown) connected in parallel with the first power supply circuit 4A in the first drive circuit 4 and setting it to a state where it can output a weak current at a level that prevents the pyrotechnic circuit 3 from operating. Moreover, fault determination can be performed similarly for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0035] After performing fault diagnosis on the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 by the control circuit 8, when the control circuit 8 determines that there is no abnormality or fault in the voltage of all drive circuits of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 and the power supply 11, the control circuit 8 executes or prepares to execute the following control or operation.

[0036] Control circuit 8 controls the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to supply the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Specifically, control circuit 8 can control the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to output one-quarter of the first current I1. More specifically, control circuit 8 can control the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to output one-quarter of the first current I1, while simultaneously controlling the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B to be connected.

[0037] Furthermore, when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be operated, it is supplied with power at a first current value I1 during the first period T1. Then, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is driven by the ignition resistor 3C along with a localized explosion action, and the conductive circuit 2 becomes irreversibly broken due to physical damage.

[0038] In other words, when in Figure 3 When the timing of 0 is detected by the current detector 12 as an overcurrent condition exceeding the specified current or when an accident information of vehicle 9 is detected, the control circuit 8 connects the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. The control circuit 8 also causes the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to each output one-quarter of the first current I1, continuously supplying the first current value I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for the first period T1. The first period T1 can be set to the period during which the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are connected, or it can be set to the period during which the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A perform actions capable of supplying the first current I1.

[0039] In the circuit breaker 1, when the controlled circuit 8 determines that there are no abnormalities or faults in all the drive circuits, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 bear an equal share of the output current when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to operate, and continuously supply the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 during the first period T1. In other words, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can achieve stable and redundant execution when current output is required, which can improve the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1.

[0040] Switches 4B (first), 5B (second), 6B (third), and 7B (fourth) can be mechanical switches such as relays or semiconductor switches such as field-effect transistors (FETs). Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, constant current power supplies can be primarily used in power supply circuits 4A (first), 5A (second), 6A (third), and 7A (fourth).

[0041] The first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first power supply circuit 4A, a second power supply circuit 5A, a third power supply circuit 6A, and a fourth power supply circuit 7A capable of setting the output current and output voltage, respectively. Furthermore, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first switch 4B, a second switch 5B, a third switch 6B, and a fourth switch 7B capable of switching between open and closed states. Moreover, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first supply path 4D, a second supply path 5D, a third supply path 6D, and a fourth supply path 7D serving as paths for supplying power from the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Additionally, the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B may be connected in series. Similarly, the second power supply circuit 5A and the second switch 5B, the third power supply circuit 6A and the third switch 6B, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A and the fourth switch 7B can be connected in series.

[0042] exist Figure 1 The diagram is simplified, but strictly speaking, such as... Figure 2 As shown, an ignition resistor 3C is provided in the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, the power supply from the first drive circuit 4 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is achieved by supplying a constant current from the first power supply circuit 4A of the constant current power supply to the ignition resistor 3C connected to the first node 3A and the second node 3B via the first switch 4B. This results in a connection where the first node 3A is the high-potential side and the second node 3B is the low-potential side. More precisely, the first switch 4B is equipped with a high-potential switch 4H connected to the first node 3A and a low-potential switch 4L connected to the second node 3B. The high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are controlled by the control circuit 8 to simultaneously perform the same operation. Alternatively, the high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are controlled by the control circuit 8 to be in a connected or open state at different timings. Figure 2 The example shown illustrates a configuration where the high-potential switch 4H and the low-potential switch 4L are respectively located on the high-potential side and the low-potential side. However, it is also possible to configure only one of the high-potential switch 4H or the low-potential switch 4L.

[0043] Similarly, the constant current supplied from the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A of the constant current power supply is supplied to the ignition resistor 3C connected to the first node 3A and the second node 3B via the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. Furthermore, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are equipped with a high-potential switch (not shown) connected to the first node 3A and a low-potential switch (not shown) connected to the second node 3B. The high-potential switch (not shown) and the low-potential switch (not shown) are controlled by the control circuit 8 to perform the same operation simultaneously. Alternatively, the high-potential switch (not shown) and the low-potential switch (not shown) may not be respectively located on the high-potential side and the low-potential side, but only one of the high-potential switch (not shown) and the low-potential switch (not shown) may be provided.

[0044] Furthermore, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 may each have a first power supply terminal 4C, a second power supply terminal 5C, a third power supply terminal 6C, and a fourth power supply terminal 7C, respectively, for receiving power from the power supply 11 for the operation of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7.

[0045] When the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is not required, the control circuit 8 can perform normal or fault diagnosis of the first power supply circuit 4A, second power supply circuit 5A, third power supply circuit 6A, fourth power supply circuit 7A and first switch 4B, second switch 5B, third switch 6B and fourth switch 7B of the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6 and fourth drive circuit 7, as well as detect the voltage supplied to the first power supply terminal 4C, second power supply terminal 5C, third power supply terminal 6C and fourth power supply terminal 7C.

[0046] When the operation of the fire circuit breaker 3 is not required, specifically, this can be in the following situations: immediately after vehicle 9 starts (when it is not in a propulsion drive state), during a stop (when vehicle 9 has started but propulsion drive has stopped), or during vehicle 9 propulsion drive (moving). Alternatively, it can be just before vehicle 9 starts or stops. Furthermore, fault diagnosis and voltage detection can be performed once or periodically at specified intervals.

[0047] The fault diagnosis of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 by the control circuit 8 can be performed as follows.

[0048] For example, the determination is performed based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when a weak current is supplied from the first drive circuit 4 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, the fault determination can be performed similarly for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0049] For example, the control circuit 8 performs fault determination for the first power supply circuit 4A, or for the first switch 4B, or for the first drive circuit 4, based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit 3 when the first switch 4B is opened and closed, based on the state where the first power supply circuit 4A is activated and can output a weak current at a level that prevents the pyrotechnic circuit 3 from operating. Furthermore, it performs fault determination for the first drive circuit 4, including both the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B, and also for the first drive circuit 4, including the first power supply circuit 4A, the first switch 4B, and the first supply path 4D. Similarly, fault determination can be performed for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0050] Furthermore, for example, control circuit 8 can also perform fault determination for the first drive circuit 4, including the first power supply circuit 4A and the first switch 4B, based on the potential difference generated in the pyrotechnic circuit 3 when the first switch 4B is opened and closed, by activating a test power supply (not shown) connected in parallel with the first power supply circuit 4A in the first drive circuit 4 and setting it to a state where it can output a weak current at a level that prevents the pyrotechnic circuit 3 from operating. Moreover, fault determination can be performed similarly for the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 in sequence.

[0051] Furthermore, the control circuit 8 detects the voltage supplied to the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C, and determines whether the detected voltage is a normal value. In other words, the control circuit 8 determines whether the power supply 11 is outputting a normal voltage. For example, the control circuit 8 stores the first voltage V1 as a preset value, and determines that the power supply 11 is in a normal state if the voltage at the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C is higher than the first voltage V1. The detection of the voltage supplied to the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C can be performed at each of these terminals. Alternatively, the detection of the voltage supplied to the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C can also be performed at the power terminal 11A of the power supply 11.

[0052] The determination of the first driving circuit 4, the second driving circuit 5, the third driving circuit 6, and the fourth driving circuit 7, as well as the determination of the voltage of the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C, can be performed either one first or simultaneously.

[0053] After the control circuit 8 performs fault diagnosis for the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, and performs voltage determination for the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C, when the control circuit 8 determines that there is no abnormality or fault in the voltage of all drive circuits of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 and the power supply 11, the control circuit 8 performs or prepares to perform the following control or operation.

[0054] Control circuit 8 controls the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to supply the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. The first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can each be controlled by control circuit 8 to output one-quarter of the first current I1. More specifically, control circuit 8 can control the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to output one-quarter of the first current I1, while simultaneously controlling the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B to be connectable.

[0055] Furthermore, when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be operated, it is supplied with power at a first current value I1 during the first period T1. Also, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is driven by the ignition resistor 3C during a localized explosion, etc., and the conductive circuit 2 becomes irreversibly open due to physical damage.

[0056] In other words, when in Figure 3 When the timing current detector 12 detects an overcurrent exceeding the specified current or detects an accident information of vehicle 9, the control circuit 8 connects the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. The control circuit 8 also causes the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to each output one-quarter of the first current I1, continuously supplying the first current value I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for a first period T1. The first period T1 can be set to the period during which the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are connected, or it can be set to the period during which the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A perform actions capable of supplying the first current I1.

[0057] In the circuit breaker 1, when the controlled circuit 8 determines that there are no abnormalities or faults in all the drive circuits, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 bear an equal output current and supply a first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for a continuous first period T1. In other words, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can achieve stable and redundant execution when current output is required, thereby improving the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1.

[0058] Switches 4B (first), 5B (second), 6B (third), and 7B (fourth) can be mechanical switches such as relays or semiconductor switches such as field-effect transistors (FETs). Furthermore, as mentioned earlier, constant current power supplies can be primarily used in power supply circuits 4A (first), 5A (second), 6A (third), and 7A (fourth).

[0059] Alternatively, the second drive circuit group 15Y and the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 can be connected in parallel with respect to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Furthermore, fault diagnosis is not performed in the second drive circuit group 15Y. The second drive circuit group 15Y includes a drive circuit (not shown) or multiple drive circuits (not shown) connected in parallel.

[0060] In other words, the structure can be designed so that fault diagnosis is not necessarily performed on all of the multiple drive circuits connected in parallel with the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. By performing fault diagnosis only on the drive circuits that need to operate within the overall drive circuit, the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1 can also be improved.

[0061] Alternatively, any number of drive circuits can be assigned to the first drive circuit group 15X and the second drive circuit group 15Y described above. Figure 1 The diagram illustrates an embodiment where the first drive circuit group 15X is configured with a first drive circuit 4, a second drive circuit 5, a third drive circuit 6, and a fourth drive circuit 7. However, the configuration is not limited to the four drive circuits assigned to the first drive circuit group 15X. For example, multiple drive circuits determined to be normal after fault diagnosis, or a portion of multiple drive circuits determined to be normal after fault diagnosis, may also be assigned to the first drive circuit group 15X.

[0062] If, during fault diagnosis of the first drive circuit 4, second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7, the control circuit 8 detects a faulty drive circuit, it performs the following actions: For example, if the control circuit 8 diagnoses and determines that the first drive circuit 4 is faulty, it sets the first drive circuit 4 as a faulty drive circuit, controlling the first switch 4B to an open circuit state or preventing the first power supply circuit 4A from operating and thus not outputting current. Furthermore, the control circuit 8 can set the normal second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, and fourth drive circuit 7 as normal drive circuits, controlling them to operate to enable the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. Alternatively, it can control the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 to operate by enabling one of the normal second drive circuit 5, third drive circuit 6, or fourth drive circuit 7 to operate.

[0063] For example, control circuit 8 controls the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to supply the second current I2 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. The second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can each be controlled by control circuit 8 to output one-third of the second current I2. More specifically, control circuit 8 can control the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to output one-third of the second current I2, while simultaneously controlling the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B to be connectable.

[0064] When the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to operate, it supplies power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 with a second current value I2 during the second period T2. In other words, when... Figure 3 When the timing current detector 12 detects an overcurrent exceeding the specified current or detects an accident information of vehicle 9, the control circuit 8 connects the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. The control circuit 8 then causes the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to each output one-third of the second current I2, continuously supplying the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 during the second period T2. The second period T2 can be set to either the period during which the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are connected, or the period during which the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A perform actions capable of supplying the second current I2.

[0065] like Figure 3As shown, preferably, the second current I2 is a smaller current value than the first current I1, and the second period T2 is a longer period than the first period T1. When the first current I1 as described above is supplied, the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A each output one-quarter of the first current I1. Preferably, this one-quarter value of the first current I1 is approximately the upper limit of the current that each of the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A can output, or a value close to the upper limit. Furthermore, the one-third value of the second current I2 output by the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 is also approximately close to the current that each of the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A can output. Furthermore, in order to compensate for the fact that the second current I2 is approximately three-quarters of the first current I1, which is smaller than the first current I1, power is supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for a second period T2 that is longer than the first period T1. As a result, the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is reliably executed.

[0066] In the circuit breaker 1, when the control circuit 8 determines that the first drive circuit 4 is abnormal or faulty, and the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be operated, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, which are capable of normal operation, equally bear the output current, and supply a second current I2 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for a continuous second period T2. In other words, when current output is required, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 enable stable redundant execution by activating the drive circuits that are capable of operation, thereby improving the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1.

[0067] In addition, after the control circuit 8 performs the voltage determination for the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C, if an abnormal voltage is detected in the power supply 11, the control circuit 8 performs the following actions. For example, the control circuit 8 stores the first voltage V1 as a preset value, and if the voltage supplied to the first power terminal 4C, the second power terminal 5C, the third power terminal 6C, and the fourth power terminal 7C is lower than the first voltage V1, it determines that the power supply 11 is in an abnormal state. The control circuit 8 then activates all the functions of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, performing the following control.

[0068] Control circuit 8 controls the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to supply the third current I3 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. The first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can each be controlled by control circuit 8 to output one-quarter of the third current I3. More specifically, control circuit 8 can control the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to output one-quarter of the third current I3, while simultaneously controlling the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B to be connectable.

[0069] Furthermore, when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to operate, it is supplied with power at a third current value I3 during the third continuous period T3. In other words, during... Figure 3 When the timing current detector 12 detects an overcurrent exceeding the specified current or detects an accident information of vehicle 9, the control circuit 8 connects the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B. The control circuit 8 also causes the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A to each output one-quarter of the third current I3, continuously supplying the third current I3 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 during the third period T3. The third period T3 can be set to the period during which the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B are connected, or it can be set to the period during which the second power supply circuit 5A, the first power supply circuit 4A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A perform actions capable of supplying the third current I3.

[0070] like Figure 3 As shown, preferably, the third current I3 is a smaller current value than the first current I1, and the third period T3 is a longer period than the first period T1. Since the voltage of power supply 11 may be abnormal, resulting in insufficient power to supply the first current I1, the third current I3 is suppressed to a value smaller than the first current I1 to suppress the output power. When supplying the first current I1 as described above, the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A each output one-quarter of the first current I1. At this time, the value of one-quarter of the first current I1 is approximately the upper limit or close to the upper limit of the output current of each of the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A.

[0071] In contrast, to supply the third current I3, the value of one-quarter of the third current I3 output by the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 is lower than the value of one-quarter of the first current I1. Furthermore, the value of one-quarter of the third current I3 is approximately lower than or close to the upper limit of the output current of each of the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A. For example, the value of one-quarter of the third current I3 is a lower value set by multiplying the upper limit of the output current of each of the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A by a predetermined coefficient of 1.0 or less. As described above, when the first current I1 is supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 and when the third current I3 is supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3, the output currents of the first power supply circuit 4A, the second power supply circuit 5A, the third power supply circuit 6A, and the fourth power supply circuit 7A are controlled by the control circuit 8 to different values.

[0072] Furthermore, in order to compensate for the fact that the third current I3 is smaller than the first current I1, a third period T3, which is longer than the first period T1, is supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. As a result, the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is reliably executed.

[0073] In the circuit breaker 1, when the control circuit 8 determines that the voltage of the power supply 11 is abnormal and the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be activated, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 equally bear the output current, and supply a third current I3 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 for a continuous third period T3. In other words, when current output is required, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can perform stable redundant execution by activating all drive circuits with less power than usual when the voltage of the power supply 11 is low, thereby improving the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1.

[0074] Regarding the relationship between the second current value I2, the second period T2, the third current value I3, and the third period T3 described above, the third current value I3 can be a current value that is larger than the second current value I2, or it can be a current value that is smaller than the second current value I2. Therefore, the third period T3 can be set to be shorter than the second period T2, or it can be set to be longer than the second period T2.

[0075] As mentioned earlier, the second current I2 supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when a part of the drive circuit fails, and the third current I3 supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when the power supply 11 has insufficient voltage, are both smaller than the first current I1. However, the value of the second current I2 varies depending on the number of faults in the drive circuit, and the value of the third current I3 varies depending on the degree of voltage drop in the power supply 11. Therefore, the values ​​of the second current I2 and the third current I3 do not maintain a constant magnitude relationship. Furthermore, as the value of the second current I2 or the third current I3 decreases, the value of the second period T2 or the third period T3 increases. In other words, the control circuit 8 controls the operation of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 to maintain the cumulative value of the current supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3, for example, maintaining it as the energy value obtained by multiplying the square of the current by the period.

[0076] Furthermore, the control circuit 8 determines whether the power supply 11 is in an abnormal state based on the voltage supplied to the first power supply terminal 4C, the second power supply terminal 5C, the third power supply terminal 6C, and the fourth power supply terminal 7C. The first voltage V1, which serves as the reference for this determination, only needs to be set to a value higher than or equal to the voltage at which the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, the fourth switch 7B, the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can operate. Moreover, the voltage at which the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can operate is higher than the voltage at which the first switch 4B, the second switch 5B, the third switch 6B, and the fourth switch 7B can operate, especially when power conversion operations are involved. Therefore, the first voltage V1, which serves as the reference for this determination, only needs to be set to a value higher than or equal to the voltage at which the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 can operate.

[0077] Alternatively, a current detector 12 capable of detecting the load current flowing into the conductive circuit 2 can be provided, so that it can be used to issue a trigger signal to activate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0078] As mentioned above, in response to abnormal conditions such as overcurrent detection and collision detection in vehicle 9, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 performs a circuit breaking action according to the power supplied from each drive circuit, based on the instruction from the control circuit 8. For example, if the control circuit 8 determines that the load current flowing to the conductive circuit 2 exceeds the overcurrent threshold, the control circuit 8 determines that the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be activated, and the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 performs a circuit breaking action.

[0079] This improves the operational reliability of the circuit breaker 1. When an overcurrent is detected, the control circuit 8 instructs the relevant circuit breaker action to be performed.

[0080] Furthermore, if the control circuit 8 detects a faulty drive circuit during fault diagnosis of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, the control circuit 8 may also perform the following actions: If the control circuit 8 diagnoses and determines that the first drive circuit 4 is faulty, the control circuit 8 will either control the first switch 4B to an open circuit state or prevent the first power supply circuit 4A from operating and thus not outputting current. Moreover, for the control circuit 8, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7 are controlled by the control circuit 8 to output one-quarter of the first current I1 to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0081] As described above, the first current I1 is the current supplied to activate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when all drive circuits are functioning normally. At this time, the drive circuits, as described in the example, consist of the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7. Therefore, each drive circuit is controlled by the control circuit 8 to output one-quarter of the first current I1.

[0082] Alternatively, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, which are the actuating drive circuits, will supply a current of one-quarter of the first current I1, which is the same value supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be operated, for a fourth period T4 that is longer than the first period. By activating the actuating drive circuits, the circuit breaker 1 can ensure stable and reliable operation.

[0083] Alternatively, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, which are capable of operation, may supply a fourth current I4, which is greater than one-quarter of the first current I1 supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 when the first current value is required to operate. This fourth current I4 is supplied continuously during the first period. By activating the capable drive circuits, the circuit breaker 1 can ensure stable and reliable operation.

[0084] Furthermore, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, which are all operable drive circuits, may supply a fourth current I4, which is greater than one-quarter of the first current I1 when the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 is supplied with the first current value, for a fifth period T5 that is longer than the aforementioned first period. By activating the operable drive circuits, the circuit breaker 1 can ensure stable and reliable operation.

[0085] Alternatively, a current detector 12 capable of detecting the load current flowing to the conductive circuit 2 and a temperature detector 14 capable of detecting the temperature of the conductive circuit 2 or the relay 13 connected to the conductive circuit 2 can be provided, so that they can be used as trigger signals to activate the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3.

[0086] As described above, in response to abnormal conditions such as overcurrent detection or collision detection of vehicle 9, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 performs a circuit breaking action according to the power supplied from each drive circuit, based on the instruction from the control circuit 8. For example, temperature information of the conductive circuit 2 or the relay 13 connected to the conductive circuit 2 is sent from the temperature detector 14 to the control circuit 8. Furthermore, if the control circuit 8 determines that the load current flowing to the conductive circuit 2 exceeds the overcurrent threshold, or if the temperature in the relay 13 exceeds the threshold and reaches the above temperature value accompanied by the load current flowing to the conductive circuit 2 or the overcurrent energizing the relay 13, or a malfunctioning relay 13, the control circuit 8 determines that the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to be activated, and the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 performs a circuit breaking action.

[0087] Alternatively, if the control circuit 8 determines that the load current flowing into the conductive circuit 2 exceeds the overcurrent threshold, and this is accompanied by an overcurrent in the load current flowing into the conductive circuit 2, an overcurrent energizing the relay 13, or a temperature rise in the malfunctioning relay 13 exceeding the threshold and reaching the above temperature value, the control circuit 8 determines that the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 needs to operate, and the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3 performs a circuit breaking operation. This improves the operational reliability of the circuit breaking device 1.

[0088] Regarding the determination of overcurrent and temperature rise mentioned above, when one is determined, the control circuit 8 instructs the execution of a circuit-breaking operation. Alternatively, regarding the determination of overcurrent and temperature rise mentioned above, when both are determined, the control circuit 8 instructs the execution of a circuit-breaking operation.

[0089] As a condition for not performing the circuit breaker action, it can be set such that the control circuit 8 determines an overcurrent due to noise occurring when the vehicle 9 starts.

[0090] In the embodiments described above, an example is shown where the four drive circuits—the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7—are connected in parallel as multiple drive circuits, enabling power to be supplied to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker 3. However, multiple drive circuits can be configured as long as two or more drive circuits are connected in parallel, and this disclosure is not limited to the state of connecting four drive circuits in parallel.

[0091] In the above description, the control circuit 8 was described as the element that performs all calculations related to determination, commands related to control, and execution. Strictly speaking, the control circuit 8 may have an ignition signal output unit 8A for activating the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, or a fault diagnosis unit 8B for performing fault diagnosis on the first drive circuit 4, the second drive circuit 5, the third drive circuit 6, and the fourth drive circuit 7, etc. In addition, the control circuit 8 may also have a storage device (not shown), and the control circuit 8 is not limited to a single element, but may be configured in a distributed manner according to each function.

[0092] Industrial applicability

[0093] The circuit breaker disclosed herein has the effect of improving operational reliability and is used in various vehicle electrical equipment.

[0094] Label Explanation

[0095] 1. Circuit breaker; 2. Conductive circuit; 3. Fire circuit breaker; 3A. Node 1; 3B. Node 2; 3C. Ignition resistor; 4. First drive circuit; 4A. First power supply circuit; 4B. First switch; 4C. First power terminal; 4D. First supply circuit; 4H. High-potential switch; 4L. Low-potential switch; 5. Second drive circuit; 5A. Second power supply circuit; 5B. Second switch; 5C. Second power terminal; 5D. Second supply circuit; 6. Third drive circuit; 6A. Third power supply circuit; 6B. Third switch; 6C. Third power terminal; 6D. Third supply circuit; 7. Fourth drive circuit; 7A. Fourth power supply circuit; 7B. Fourth switch; 7C. Fourth power terminal; 7D. Fourth supply circuit; 8. Control circuit; 8A. Ignition signal output unit; 8B. Fault diagnosis unit; 9. Vehicle; 10. Vehicle body; 11 Power supply; 12 Current detector; 13 Relay; 14 Temperature detector; 15X First drive circuit group; 15Y Second drive circuit group.

Claims

1. A circuit breaker device, have: Electrical circuit; Firework circuit breakers can irreversibly break the aforementioned electrical circuit. The first drive circuit group is capable of supplying power to operate the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker, and has multiple drive circuits connected in parallel to the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker; and The control circuit can control the operation of the above-mentioned multiple drive circuits. When the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker needs to operate, the aforementioned control circuit individually controls the output current value and output time period for each of the aforementioned multiple drive circuits. The aforementioned control circuit supplies the first drive circuit group with power for the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker.

2. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, When the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is not required, the aforementioned control circuit can perform diagnoses regarding the normal or fault status of the aforementioned multiple drive circuits. If all of the aforementioned drive circuits in the first drive circuit group are diagnosed as being normal, then when the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, power is supplied to the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker at the first current value for a continuous first period.

3. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, Each of the aforementioned driving circuits has a power supply terminal, which can receive the power required by the driving circuits during operation. Each of the aforementioned drive circuits is capable of switching between supplying power to or de-supplying the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker. When the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is not required, the aforementioned control circuit can perform diagnoses of the normal or fault status of the aforementioned plurality of drive circuits, as well as detection of the voltage supplied to the aforementioned power supply terminals. If it is diagnosed that all of the aforementioned multiple drive circuits in the first drive circuit group are normal and the voltage supplied to the power supply terminal is detected to be above the first voltage value, then when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is supplied with power at the first current value for the first period.

4. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, Each of the aforementioned driving circuits includes: a power supply circuit having a power supply terminal capable of receiving power required by the aforementioned driving circuits during operation; a supply path; and a switch capable of switching between supplying power to or de-supplying the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker. When the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is not required, the aforementioned control circuit can perform diagnoses of the normality or fault status of the power supply circuit, the supply line, and the switch in the aforementioned plurality of drive circuits, as well as detection of the voltage supplied to the power supply terminals. If the power supply circuit, the supply path and the switch in the plurality of drive circuits of the first drive circuit group are all normal and the voltage supplied to the power terminal is detected to be above the first voltage value, then when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is supplied with power at the first current value for the first period.

5. The circuit breaker as described in claim 3, It also includes a second drive circuit group, which is connected in parallel with the aforementioned plurality of drive circuits to the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker. The diagnosis of the fault is not performed for the second drive circuit group mentioned above.

6. The circuit breaker as described in claim 3, In the case where a faulty drive circuit is diagnosed as faulty in the first drive circuit group mentioned above, the faulty drive circuit does not output power when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, and the normal drive circuit diagnosed as normal in the plurality of drive circuits supplies power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required.

7. The circuit breaker as described in claim 3, In the event that a faulty drive circuit is diagnosed as faulty in the first drive circuit group, the control circuit shall prevent the faulty drive circuit from outputting power when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required. The normal driving circuit, which is diagnosed as normal from the above-mentioned multiple driving circuits, supplies power to the fire circuit breaker for a second period that is longer than the first period and has a second current value that is smaller than the first current value when the operation of the fire circuit breaker is required.

8. The circuit breaker as described in claim 3, When the control circuit detects that the voltage supplied to the power terminal is less than the first voltage value, it supplies power to the pyrotechnic circuit breaker for a third period longer than the first period with a third current value less than the first current value when the operation of the pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required.

9. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, It also includes a current detector capable of detecting the load current flowing in the aforementioned conductive circuit. The aforementioned current detector is connected to the aforementioned control circuit. When the load current rises above the threshold, the control circuit determines that the operation of the fire circuit breaker is required.

10. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, It also has: A current detector is capable of detecting the load current flowing in the aforementioned conductive circuit; and A temperature detector capable of detecting the temperature of the aforementioned conductive circuit or the temperature of a switch connected to the aforementioned conductive circuit. Both the aforementioned current detector and the aforementioned temperature detector are connected to the aforementioned control circuit. When either the load current or the temperature rises above a threshold, the control circuit determines that the operation of the fire circuit breaker is required.

11. The circuit breaker as described in claim 1, It also has: A current detector is capable of detecting the load current flowing in the aforementioned conductive circuit; and A temperature detector capable of detecting the temperature of the aforementioned conductive circuit or the temperature of a switch connected to the aforementioned conductive circuit. Both the aforementioned current detector and the aforementioned temperature detector are connected to the aforementioned control circuit. When both the load current and the temperature rise above the threshold, the control circuit determines that the operation of the fire circuit breaker is required.

12. The circuit breaker as described in claim 3, When the operation of the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is not required, the aforementioned control circuit can perform diagnoses of the normal or fault status of the aforementioned plurality of drive circuits and detect the voltage supplied to the aforementioned power supply terminals. If the diagnosis shows that all of the above-mentioned drive circuits are normal and the power supply terminal is detected to be above the first voltage value, then when the operation of the above-mentioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker is required, the above-mentioned drive circuits will perform the operation, thereby continuously supplying power to the above-mentioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker at the first current value for the first period.

13. The circuit breaker as described in claim 12, It also includes a second drive circuit group, which is connected in parallel with the first drive circuit group to the aforementioned pyrotechnic circuit breaker. The diagnosis of the fault is not performed for the second drive circuit group mentioned above.

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