Electrical protection device

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical protection device comprising a main electrical contact, a switching mechanism, a solid-state power switch connected in series with the main electrical contact, a safety device connected in parallel with the main electrical contact, the safety device comprising an auxiliary electrical contact, a control unit adapted to control the power switch and the switching mechanism, the safety device being adapted to control the power switch and the switching mechanism, when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, the switching mechanism is activated to switch the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact to an open state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to the technical field of electrical protection devices and systems, such as circuit breakers. More specifically, the present invention relates to the technical field of circuit breakers known as "solid-state circuit breakers". Background Art

[0002] Many electromechanical electrical switching devices, such as air circuit breakers, and in particular miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), typically include an arc extinguishing chamber that is configured to extinguish an arc generated in the air between electrical contacts of the device when the electrical contacts separate after the device is tripped.

[0003] In addition to at least one movable part for opening the circuit, the arc extinguishing chamber usually includes a stack of metal plates stacked one on top of another to expand and extinguish the arc that may occur when the circuit is opened.

[0004] However, in order to improve the performance of these electrical protection devices (hereinafter referred to as "protection devices"), it has been proposed to replace the arc extinguishing chambers with electronic circuit breaker devices containing power switches based on semiconductor components. Such circuit breakers are called "solid-state" circuit breakers.

[0005] French patent application FR3123141 published on November 25, 2022 discloses such an electrical protection device.

[0006] For example, the improved performance of these electrical protection devices is beneficial to direct current (DC) electrical systems including electrochemical batteries, whose electrical protection devices must be able to interrupt high currents with very fast reaction times when an electrical fault occurs.

[0007] These solid-state electrical protection devices must be able to interrupt electrical current with at least the same reliability and safety as electromechanical protection devices. These reliability and safety requirements are defined in standards, such as the "UL 489i" standard, which is managed by the Underwriters Laboratories (UL) certification agency in the United States.

[0008] This standard covers the requirements that solid-state molded case circuit breakers (SSCB) or solid-state hybrid molded case circuit breakers (SSHCB) must meet.

[0009] These requirements cover circuit breakers through 2023 with nominal values ​​ranging, for example, up to 1000V for AC current and up to 1500V for DC current, using semiconductors for switching. For example, these protective devices are intended to protect service entrances, power lines, and branch circuits. These devices may require auxiliary control power.

[0010] The standard states that the circuit breaker must be able to interrupt a current equal to six times the nominal current when closed and when open in the event of a fault in the disconnecting electronics.

[0011] The object of the present invention is to propose an electrical protection device comprising a switching mechanism for disconnecting an electronic device in the event of a fault. Summary of the invention

[0012] The above objectives are at least partially achieved by an electrical protection device, which includes two connection terminals, a main electrical contact that is detachable and connected between the two connection terminals, and the main electrical contact can be switched between an open state in which the electrical contacts are separated and a closed state in which the electrical contacts are in contact; a switching mechanism, which is suitable for switching the main electrical contact to an open state; a solid-state power switch connected in series with the main electrical contact, the power switch is suitable for switching between an open state in which current is blocked and a closed state in which current is allowed to pass, and a safety device connected in parallel with the main electrical contact. The safety device includes an auxiliary electrical contact, which is detachable and can move between an open state and a closed state. The switching mechanism is suitable for switching the auxiliary electrical contact to an open state. The electrical protection device includes a control unit, which is suitable for switching the electrical protection device between an open state and a closed state, in which the power switch, the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact are in an open state, and in which the power switch, the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact are in a closed state. The control unit is adapted to control the power switch and the switching mechanism, and when the electrical protection device is closed, the auxiliary electrical contacts of the safety device are closed before the main electrical contacts and the power switch are closed, and when the electrical protection device is opened, the main electrical contacts and the power switch are opened before the auxiliary electrical contacts of the safety device are opened. When a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, the safety device is adapted to activate the switching mechanism to switch the main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts to an open state.

[0013] Advantageously, the electrical protection device is protected from a possible failure of the power switch which would allow current to flow even though the current switch would otherwise be in the open state.

[0014] Specifically, when the electrical protection device is closing, that is, when the electrical protection device changes from an open state to a closed state, the auxiliary electrical contacts of the safety device are closed first. Assuming that the power switch is in an open state but allows current to flow anyway, the safety device activates the switching mechanism to immediately disconnect the main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts, possibly during the closing process, thereby interrupting the current in the electrical protection device.

[0015] Similarly, when the electrical protection device is opening, that is, when the electrical protection device changes from the closed state to the open state, the auxiliary electrical contact of the safety device is opened last. Assuming that the power switch is switched to the open state but still allows current to pass, the safety device activates the switching mechanism to immediately open the main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts, thereby interrupting the current in the electrical protection device.

[0016] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device comprises a first striker, and when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, the first striker activates the switching mechanism to switch the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact to an open state.

[0017] Advantageously, a possible current through the striker can trip the striker and activate the switching mechanism.

[0018] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the switching mechanism is suitable for switching the separable main electrical contacts and the separable auxiliary electrical contacts to an open state and a closed state, and the safety device is also suitable for, when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, and after the switching mechanism is activated to switch the separable main electrical contacts and the separable auxiliary electrical contacts to the open state, blocking the switching mechanism to prevent the main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts from switching to the closed state.

[0019] Advantageously, in the event that the power switch may trip after a fault, the safety device will prevent any possibility of the separable main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts closing, making the electrical protection device safe.

[0020] According to one embodiment of the invention, the first striker comprises a blocking element adapted to keep the switching mechanism blocked when the striker is struck.

[0021] Advantageously, once tripped, the striker will be blocked in its tripped position, thereby keeping the switching mechanism blocked, thereby preventing the possibility of closing of the separable main and auxiliary electrical contacts.

[0022] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device further comprises a current limiting element connected in series with the auxiliary electrical contact.

[0023] Advantageously, if an arc is formed when the auxiliary electrical contacts are opened, the current limiting element can reduce the current intensity through the safety device, thereby extinguishing the arc between the auxiliary electrical contacts in the open position. This is particularly advantageous for direct current and / or high voltage (e.g., voltage greater than 750Vdc).

[0024] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the current limiting element connected in series with the auxiliary electrical contact is a fuse.

[0025] Advantageously, the fuse can permanently cut off the current in the safety device, depending on the size of the fuse.

[0026] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device further comprises a movable screen, the movable screen being made of an electrically insulating material and being adapted to move between a first position and a second position, wherein by default, the movable screen is located in the first position and between the main electrical contacts to prevent the main electrical contacts from contacting in the second position. The safety device comprises a second striker, and when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, the second striker is adapted to move the movable screen to the second position.

[0027] Advantageously, in the event of a possible failure of the power switch, an insulating screen is placed to physically prevent the closing of the main electrical contacts. Thus, in combination with the presence of a fuse (effectively disconnecting the safety device), this feature prevents any closing of the main electrical contacts and makes the current disconnection of the protection device independent of any possible action of the switching mechanism.

[0028] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first impactor and the second impactor are the same impactor.

[0029] Advantageously, by using the same striker to activate the switching mechanism and to place the insulating screen between the main contacts, the construction of the protection device is simplified and made more compact. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Other features and advantages of an embodiment of an electrical protection device according to the invention will become apparent from the following description, given by way of non-limiting example and with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0031] Figure 1 A protection device according to the prior art is shown, for example the protection device disclosed in French patent application FR3123141 published on November 25, 2022.

[0032] Figure 2 A protection device according to the prior art is schematically shown.

[0033] Figure 3 The invention according to a first embodiment is schematically shown.

[0034] Figure 4 The invention according to a second embodiment is schematically shown.

[0035] Figure 5 A method for making a protective device safe according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown, the method being implemented when the protective device is tripped.

[0036] Figure 6 A method for securing a protective device according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown, the method being carried out when the protective device is closed.

[0037] FIG. 7 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a first embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0038] FIG. 8 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a second embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0039] FIG. 9 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a third embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0040] FIG. 10 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a fourth embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0041] FIG. 11 schematically shows the structure of an actuator according to a first embodiment including a blocking element in its activated position.

[0042] Fig.12 The structure of an actuator according to a second embodiment is schematically shown, the actuator comprising a blocking element in its activated position.

[0043] Fig.13 The structure of an actuator according to a third embodiment is schematically shown, the actuator comprising a blocking element in its activated position.

[0044] FIG. 14 schematically shows the structure of an actuator according to a fourth embodiment including a blocking element in its activated position.

[0045] FIG. 15 schematically shows the structure of an actuator according to a fifth embodiment, the actuator comprising a blocking element in its activated position. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] Figure 1 A protection device 20 according to the prior art is shown, for example the protection device disclosed in French patent application FR3123141 published on November 25, 2022. Figure 1 Corresponding to patent application FR3123141 Figure 2 , after modification, unnecessary reference numerals are deleted. A detailed description of the protection device 20 is given in document FR3123141, in particular from paragraph

[0032] to paragraph

[0097] of document FR3123141. Paragraph

[0098] of document FR3123141 describes in detail the mode of operation of the protection device 20. Figure 1 The reference numerals used in the description correspond to those used in document FR3123141.

[0047] Figure 1The protection device 20 shown includes two pairs of connection terminals 6 and 8: the first input terminal 6 is connected to the first output terminal 8 via a first connection line (in Figure 1 The second input terminal 6 is connected to the second output terminal 8 (at the top of Figure 1 at the bottom of the ).

[0048] Figure 1 The protection device 20 shown comprises a separable electrical contact 10 connected between the connection terminals 6 and 8, and a switching mechanism 12 comprising a control member 14 (hereinafter also referred to as a control lever or operating lever). The operating lever 14 is, for example, a pivoting lever that is accessible from the outside of the housing 4 and is intended to be manipulated by a user.

[0049] The separable electrical contacts 10 can be moved between an open state in which the separable electrical contacts 10 are separated and a closed state in which the separable electrical contacts 10 are in contact. In the open state, the separable electrical contacts 10 are separated from each other, for example by a large amount of ambient air acting as an electrical insulator, which prevents the flow of current. The switching mechanism 12 enables the separable electrical contacts 10 to be switched between the open state and the closed state. The switching mechanism 12 is arranged to move the electrical contacts 10 to the open state in response to a switching command. The switching command can be sent by tripping ("automatic tripping") or generated by a user's action on the operating lever 14 ("manual tripping").

[0050] The protection device 20 also includes an electronic disconnection module, which is arranged to interrupt the current between the connection terminals 6 and 8. The electronic disconnection module is also called a solid-state disconnection module and includes electronic components, in particular semiconductor components, such as power transistors. The protection device 20 is different from an electromechanical air protection device including an extinguishing chamber (arc extinguishing chamber).

[0051] The protection device 20 thus comprises at least one power switch 22 connected in series with the separable electrical contacts 10. Each power switch 22 can be switched between an electrically disconnected state and an electrically connected state. Figure 1 In the example shown, the protection device 20 comprises four power switches 22, identified by reference numerals T1, T2, T3 and T4. According to alternative embodiments of the invention, the protection device 20 may comprise a different number of power switches 22. Thus, the number of power switches 22 may vary depending on the topology of the device, in particular the number of poles (single-phase, multi-phase, with or without a neutral line), but also on the rated current of the device. Each power switch 22 may actually be implemented by several components (e.g. transistors) connected in parallel, depending on the rating of the circuit breaker that it is desired to produce.

[0052] The protection device 20 also includes an electronic control circuit 24 connected to the at least one power switch 22 (i.e., each power switch 22). In other words, the electronic control circuit 24 makes it possible to control each power switch 22 so as to switch them between an electrically disconnected state and an electrically connected state. In many embodiments, the electronic control circuit 24 includes a processor, such as a programmable microcontroller or a microprocessor. The processor is advantageously connected to a computer memory or any computer-readable data storage medium, which includes executable instructions and / or software codes, which, when these instructions are executed by the processor, are intended to implement a method for detecting electrical faults. It is worth noting that the method can detect electrical faults, such as overload current, short circuit, differential current, or the presence of a series (or differential) arc in the protected line, and can also detect overvoltage or undervoltage.

[0053] The electronic control circuit 24 is arranged to switch the power switch 22 to the open state when an electrical fault is detected, for example by a measuring circuit such as the measuring circuit 30 .

[0054] The protection device 20 comprises a synchronization system intended to synchronize the switching of the power switch 22 with the disconnection of the contacts 10, with the aim of avoiding the occurrence of electric arcs when the electrical contacts 10 are disconnected and providing electrical insulation when the protection device 20 is disconnected. Thus, during the disconnection phase of the protection device 20, the electronic control circuit 24 controls the power switch 22 to switch to its disconnected state before the electrical contacts 10 are separated, which prevents the occurrence of electric arcs, thereby allowing the current to be safely interrupted. On the contrary, once the electrical contacts 10 are in the disconnected position, the electrical contacts 10 allow an air gap to be created. This prevents currents (such as leakage currents from the power switches 22 or currents caused by failures of these power switches 22) from being able to flow again between the terminals after the protection device 20 is tripped.

[0055] Figure 2 A protection device 200 known to a person skilled in the art is schematically shown and is similar to the protection device 20 described above.

[0056] The protection device 200 includes two connection terminals 201 and 202. The two connection terminals 201 and 202 are similar to the above Figure 1 Connection terminals 6 and 8.

[0057] The protection device 200 includes a main electrical contact 230, which can be separated and connected between the two connection terminals 201 and 202. The main electrical contact 230 can be switched between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the electrical contacts are separated to prevent current from passing through, and in the closed state, the electrical contacts are in contact to allow current to pass through. The main electrical contact 230 is similar to the above Figure 1 A separable electrical contact 10 is provided.

[0058] The protection device 200 includes a switching mechanism 240, which is suitable for switching the main electrical contact 230 between an open state and a closed state. The switching mechanism 240 is suitable for switching the main contact 230 to the open state. The switching mechanism 240 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 1 The switching mechanism 12.

[0059] The protection device 200 includes a solid-state power switch 210 connected in series with the main electrical contacts 201 and 202, and the power switch is adapted to switch between an open state that blocks current flow and a closed state that allows current flow. The power switch 210 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 1 The power switch 22.

[0060] The protection device 200 comprises a control unit 220, which is adapted to switch the electrical protection device 200 between an open state and a closed state, in which the power switch 210 and the main electrical contact 230 are in an open state, and in which the power switch 210 and the main electrical contact 230 are in a closed state. The control unit 220 is adapted to control the power switch 210 and the switching mechanism 240, and is adapted to:

[0061] When the protection device 200 is closing, the main electrical contact 230 is closed before the power switch 210.

[0062] When the protection device 200 is opening, the power switch 210 is opened before the main power contacts 230 are opened.

[0063] The control unit 220 is similar to the above Figure 1 The electronic control circuit 24.

[0064] Therefore, when the protection device 200 is closing, the main electrical contact 230 is closed before the power switch 210. That is, in the case where the power switch 210 is not faulty, the main electrical contact 230 is closed while no current passes through the protection device 200.

[0065] Similarly, when the protection device 200 is opening, the power switch 210 is opened before opening the main electrical contact 230. That is, in the case where the power switch 210 is not faulty, the main electrical contact 230 is opened while no current passes through the protection device 200.

[0066] In the aforementioned two cases of closing or opening the protection device 200 , and in the case where the power switch 210 has no fault, the main electrical contacts 230 are opened or closed without any risk of an arc occurring between the main contacts 230 .

[0067] Conversely, in the event of a fault in the power switch 210, the fault current may flow through the main contacts 230. This may be problematic when the protection device 200 is opening because the main contacts 230 are generally not designed to extinguish an arc.

[0068] This is the problem that the present invention described below intends to solve.

[0069] Figure 3 The invention according to a first embodiment is schematically shown.

[0070] The protection device 300 according to the first embodiment of the present invention is different from the protection device 200 in that it includes a safety device 350 .

[0071] The principle of the present invention is to ensure that the safety device 350 of the protection device 300 is opened last when the protection device 300 is opening, and the safety device 350 is closed first when the protection device 300 is closing. In both cases, and in the case that the power switch 310 is not faulty, no current passes through the safety device 350. On the contrary, in the case of a fault in the power switch 310, the fault current passes through the safety device 350, which makes it possible to trip and re-open and / or possibly block in the open position of the protection device 300.

[0072] The protection device 300 includes two connection terminals 301 and 302. The connection terminals 301 and 302 are similar to the above Figure 1 and 2 The connecting terminals 6 and 8 as well as 201 and 202 in.

[0073] The protection device 300 includes a main electrical contact 330 that is detachable and connected between the two connection terminals 301 and 302. The main electrical contact can be switched between an open state in which the electrical contact is separated and a closed state in which the electrical contact is in contact. Figure 1 and 2 The main electrical contacts 10 and 230.

[0074] The protection device 300 includes a switching mechanism 340. The switching mechanism is adapted to switch the main electrical contact 330 from an open state to a closed state and from a closed state to an open state. The switching mechanism 340 is similar to the above Figure 1 and 2 The switching mechanism 12 and 240. The switching mechanism 340 is adapted to switch the main electrical contact 330 from a closed state to an open state after being activated by a striker (eg, a striker 354 described below).

[0075] According to one embodiment of the invention, the switching mechanism 340 comprises an operating lever (not shown) similar to the operating lever 14 of the protection device 20 described in document FR3123141. The operating lever can be linked to a mechanical position sensor of the operating lever. The mechanical position sensor is suitable for detecting the start of the disconnection operation of the switching mechanism 340 and then sending an electrical command to the control unit 320 indicating that the mechanical disconnection command is occurring. The entire protection device 300 is arranged so that the solid-state disconnection (i.e., by the power switch 310 described below) occurs before the main electrical contacts 330 and the auxiliary electrical contacts 352 are actually disconnected.

[0076] The protection device 300 includes a solid-state power switch 310 connected in series with a main electrical contact 330, and the power switch 310 is adapted to switch between an open state that blocks current flow and a closed state that allows current flow. The power switch 310 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 1 and Figure 2 Power switches 22 and 210.

[0077] Different from the above protection device 200, the protection device 300 includes a safety device 350 connected in parallel with the main electrical contact 330, such as Figure 3 The main electrical contacts 330 and the safety device 350 are both placed in series with the power switch 310 .

[0078] The relationship between the impedance of the main electrical contact 330 and the impedance of the safety device 350 is established so that when the protection device 300 is closed, the rated current through the protection device 300 mainly passes through the main electrical contact 330 (or "main circuit"), and the residual current through the safety device 350 is negligible relative to the rated current. Therefore, for this purpose, the impedance of the safety device 350 is significantly greater than the impedance of the main circuit, which is the circuit formed by the main electrical contact 330 in the closed position.

[0079] According to one embodiment of the invention, the impedance of the safety device 350 is one hundred times greater than the impedance of the main circuit, preferably one thousand times greater, and even more preferably more than one thousand times greater. For example, a ratio between the two impedances of the order of one thousand makes it possible to obtain the correct operation of the protection device 300.

[0080] The safety device 350 includes an auxiliary electrical contact 352 that can be separated and moved between an open state that prevents current from passing and a closed state that allows current to pass. The switching mechanism 340 is adapted to switch the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the open state. According to one embodiment, the switching mechanism 340 is adapted to switch the auxiliary electrical contact 352 from the open state to the closed state and from the closed state to the open state.

[0081] The safety device 350 includes a control unit 320, which is suitable for converting the electrical protection device 300 between an open state and a closed state. In the open state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are in an open state, preventing current from passing through the electrical protection device 300. In the closed state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are in a closed state, allowing current to pass through the electrical protection device 300.

[0082] The control unit 320 is adapted to control the power switch 310 and the switching mechanism 340, and is adapted to:

[0083] When the electrical protection device 300 is closing, the auxiliary electrical contact 352 of the safety device 350 is closed before the main electrical contact 330 is closed, and then the power switch 310 is closed, and,

[0084] When the electrical protection device 300 is opening, the power switch 310 is opened and then the main electrical contact 330 is opened before the auxiliary electrical contact 352 of the safety device 350 is opened.

[0085] When current flows through the safety device 350 , the safety device 350 is adapted to activate the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to an open state.

[0086] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device 350 includes a striker 354, which is suitable for activating the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the disconnected state when current flows through the safety device 350. Here, the striker is a mechanism that is suitable for moving a movable element when current passes through the mechanism so as to strike the tripping element of the switching mechanism 340. The striker is, for example, an electromagnetic tripper, which generally includes an excitation coil coaxially surrounding an insulating tubular sheath, and a movable ferromagnetic core is installed in the sheath so that it can slide. When current flows through the excitation coil and thus strikes the tripping element of the switching mechanism 340, the ferromagnetic core can move. According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the striker 354 is a blade actuator. More generally, the striker 354 can be another type of electromagnetic actuator.

[0087] In the case of the protection device 300, when the protection device 300 is opening, the main electrical contacts 330 and the power switch 310 are opened before opening the auxiliary electrical contacts 352 of the safety device 350. Thus, in the event of a failure of the power switch 310, the existing fault current passes through the single safety device 350. The safety device 350 is then adapted to cut off the fault current.

[0088] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the auxiliary electrical contact 352 is adapted to cut off a possible fault current.

[0089] According to one embodiment of the invention, the impedance of the safety device 350 is adapted to reduce the intensity of a possible fault current passing through the safety device 350 .

[0090] Similarly, when the protection device 300 is closed, the auxiliary electrical contact 352 of the safety device 350 is closed before the main electrical contact 330 and the power switch 310. Therefore, in the event of a failure of the power switch 310, the fault current passes through the safety device 350, which is then adapted to activate the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to an open state. Any attempt to close the protection device 300 including a defective power switch 310 is thus prevented.

[0091] Figure 4 The invention according to a second embodiment is schematically shown.

[0092] Figure 4 Protection device 400 with Figure 3 The difference of the protection device 300 shown is that the protection device 400 further includes a current limiting element 355 and a movable screen 331 connected in series with the auxiliary electrical contact 352 .

[0093] The movable screen 331 is made of an electrically insulating material and is adapted to move between a first position and a second position. The movable screen 331 is located at the first position by default and is located between the main electrical contacts to prevent the main electrical contacts 330 from contacting each other at the second position.

[0094] According to an alternative embodiment of the present invention, the protection device 400 further comprises a second striker in addition to the first striker 354. When current flows through the safety device 350, the second striker is adapted to move the moving screen 331 to the second position.

[0095] According to one embodiment, the mobile screen 331 may be moved from the first position to the second position, and from the second position to the first position, depending on the position of the second impactor.

[0096] According to another embodiment, once the mobile screen 331 is in the second position, it remains in place, permanently blocking the main electrical contacts.

[0097] according to Figure 4 In the illustrated embodiment, the first striker 354 and the second striker are the same striker 354 , and when a fault current flows through the second striker 354 , the second striker 354 is adapted to activate the switching mechanism 340 and place the screen 331 in the second position.

[0098] Advantageously, in the event of a malfunction of the power switch 310 , the insulating screen 331 is placed in the second position, physically preventing the main electrical contacts 330 from closing.

[0099] Advantageously, the current-limiting element 355 makes it possible to increase the arc voltage (in addition to the arc voltage of the auxiliary contact 352 ).

[0100] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the current limiting element 355 is a polymer positive temperature coefficient device (PPTC).

[0101] Advantageously, when the current limiting element 355 is a fuse, the striker 354 includes a blocking element to possibly allow replacement of a damaged component, such as a damaged power switch and / or fuse.

[0102] According to another embodiment of the invention, the current limiting element 355 is a fuse. In this other embodiment, placing the screen 331 between the main electrical contacts 330 and melting the fuse 355 makes it possible to ensure that the protection device 400 is permanently disconnected in the event of a failure of the power switch 310 .

[0103] Figure 5 A method for making the protection device 300 or 400 (hereinafter referred to as the protection device) as described above safe according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown, which is implemented when the protection device is disconnected.

[0104] Step 500 corresponds to the closed state of the protection device. In this closed state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are closed; the nominal current can flow through the protection device.

[0105] In step 505, an instruction to disconnect the protection device is received, for example, by a user's action on an operating lever of the switching mechanism 340. The disconnection instruction may correspond to a manual instruction executed by the user through a control member of the protection device (e.g., an operating lever linked to the switching mechanism 340), or to an automatic tripping instructed by the control unit 320 after an electrical fault is detected.

[0106] According to one embodiment of the invention, during this step 505, the switching mechanism 340 is activated to start switching the main electrical contacts 330 and the auxiliary electrical contacts 352 to the disconnected state, the switching mechanism 340 being adapted to make the main electrical contacts 330 disconnect only in step 515 and the auxiliary electrical contacts 352 disconnect only in step 530. In other words, the switching mechanism 340 is adapted to make the auxiliary contacts 352 (step 530) disconnect only when the main contacts 330 are effectively disconnected (step 515). In other words, the main contacts 330 must be sufficiently disconnected so that no arc occurs between the main contacts 330 when an arc voltage appears on the auxiliary contacts 352 during their disconnection. Therefore, there is a predetermined time offset between steps 515 and 530, which depends, for example, on the disconnection speed of the main contacts 330. Figures 7 to 10 show examples of switching mechanisms that make it possible to obtain a time offset between the switching of the main electrical contacts 330 and the switching of the auxiliary electrical contacts 352. In the next step 510 , the control unit 320 switches the power switch 310 to an off state.

[0107] In step 515, after or at the same time as step 510, the control unit 320 may switch the main electrical contact 330 to the open state via the switching mechanism 340. The faster switching time of the power switch 310 makes it possible to ensure that step 510 is completed before step 515. In other words, in the case where the power switch 310 is not faulty, the main electrical contact 330 is opened without voltage, and the power switch 310 has cut off the current in advance.

[0108] After steps 510 and 515 , in step 520 , in the event of a power switch 310 failure, a fault current may still exist.

[0109] In the absence of a fault current, that is, the power switch 310 is not faulty, in step 530 , the control unit 320 may switch the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to an open state via the switching mechanism 340 .

[0110] In the following step 540, the protection device is then in the open state. In this open state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are open; no current can flow through the protection device.

[0111] In the case of a fault current, that is, the power switch 310 has a fault, in step 550, the safety device 350 through which the fault current flows activates the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the disconnected state. To this end, the safety device 350 may include a striker 354, which is adapted to activate the switching mechanism 340 when the fault current flows through the safety device 350 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the disconnected state.

[0112] According to one embodiment of the invention, the striker 354 comprises a blocking element adapted to keep the switching mechanism 340 blocked once the striker 354 is struck. Thus, advantageously, during step 550, the switching mechanism 340 is blocked, preventing any subsequent closing of the protection device 300.

[0113] In one embodiment of the invention, the striker 354 does not include a blocking element. Activating the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the open state is redundant with the step 505 of initiating the switching of the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the open state. However, this is still advantageous because it makes it possible to have a simple technical architecture, making it possible to protect the protection device 300 and operate equally well during the opening and closing of the protection device 300.

[0114] In the following step 570, the auxiliary electrical contact 352 is opened. According to one embodiment of the present invention, the impedance of the safety device 350 reduces the power of the arc that may occur when the auxiliary electrical contact 352 is opened, thereby allowing the fault current to be effectively cut off. Due to the presence of the current limiting element 355, the impedance can be adjusted.

[0115] In optional step 560 , if the protection device includes a current limiting element 355 of the fuse type, the fuse melts, cutting off the current in the safety device 350 .

[0116] Furthermore, in an optional step not shown, if the safety device includes a second striker (possibly identical to striker 354 ) and a moving screen 331 as described above, the second striker moves the moving screen 331 to the second position, thereby preventing future closing of the main electrical contacts 330 .

[0117] In the following step 580 , the protection device is then in the disconnected state. In this disconnected state, the power switch 310 , the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are disconnected; no current can flow through the protection device 300 .

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present invention, if the safety device 350 includes a current limiting element 355, a second striker which may be identical to the striker 354, and a movable screen 331 as described above, the protection device 300 may not return to its closed state, the safety device 350 is cut off by melting of the fuse 355, and the main electrical contact 330 is blocked by the screen 331 appropriately placed in the second position.

[0119] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device 350 is also adapted to block the switching mechanism 340 to prevent the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 from being switched to the closed state when current flows through the safety device 350 and after the switching mechanism 340 has been activated to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the open state. According to this embodiment, the switching mechanism 340 is blocked by the striker 354 and no longer switches the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to the closed state.

[0120] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the striker 354 includes a blocking element adapted to keep the switching mechanism 340 blocked when the striker is struck.

[0121] Figure 6 A method for securing the protection device 300 or 400 (hereinafter referred to as protection device) as described above according to one embodiment of the present invention is shown, the method being implemented when the protection device is closed.

[0122] Step 600 corresponds to the disconnected state of the protection device. In this disconnected state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are disconnected; no current can flow through the protection device.

[0123] In step 605 , an instruction to close the protection device is received. The closing instruction may correspond to a manual instruction executed by a user through a control member of the protection device (eg, an operating lever linked to the switching mechanism 340 ), or to an automatic closing instructed by the control unit 320 .

[0124] In a subsequent step 610 , the control unit 320 switches the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to a closed state, possibly via the switching mechanism 340 .

[0125] In step 615 , in the event of a power switch 310 failure, a fault current may appear in the protection device.

[0126] In the absence of a fault current, in steps 620 and 630 , the control unit 320 may simultaneously switch the main power contact 330 and the power switch 310 to a closed state.

[0127] In the following step 640 , the protection device is then in the closed state. In this closed state, the power switch 310 , the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are closed; the nominal current can flow through the protection device.

[0128] In the case where a fault current exists, in step 650 , the safety device 350 through which the fault current flows activates the switching mechanism 340 to switch the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 to an open state.

[0129] In optional step 670 , if the safety device includes a second striker (possibly the same as striker 354 ) and a moving screen 331 as described above, the second striker moves the moving screen 331 to the second position, thereby physically preventing the main electrical contacts 330 from closing.

[0130] In step 680 , the second electrical contact 352 is in the open state.

[0131] In optional step 660 , if the protection device includes a current limiting element 355 of the fuse type, the fuse melts, cutting off the current in the safety device 350 .

[0132] According to one embodiment of the invention, if the safety device comprises a current limiting element 355, a second striker which may be identical to the striker 354, and a movable screen 331 as described above, the protection device cannot return to its closed state, the safety device is cut off by the fuse, and the main electrical contact 330 is blocked by the screen 331.

[0133] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the safety device 350 is also adapted to block the switching mechanism 340 to prevent the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 from being switched to the closed state. According to this embodiment, the switching mechanism 340 is blocked by the striker 354 and the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are no longer switched to the closed state.

[0134] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the striker 354 includes a blocking element adapted to keep the switching mechanism 340 blocked when the striker 354 is struck.

[0135] In the following step 690, the protection device is then in the open state. In this open state, the power switch 310, the main electrical contact 330 and the auxiliary electrical contact 352 are open; no current can flow through the protection device.

[0136] Figures 7, 8, 9 and 10 schematically illustrate structures for implementing the present invention according to various embodiments. In these various embodiments, the switching mechanism 340 makes it possible to mechanically manage the time-shifted kinematics between the switching of the main electrical contacts 330 and the auxiliary electrical contacts 352. These time-shifted kinematics are applicable to:

[0137] When the switching mechanism 340 is activated to open the protection device 300, the main electrical contact 330 is allowed to open before the auxiliary electrical contact 352, and,

[0138] When the switching mechanism 340 is activated to close the protection device 300 , the auxiliary electrical contacts are allowed to close before the main electrical contacts 330 .

[0139] FIG. 7 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the present invention according to a first embodiment.

[0140] Figure 7 includes three Fig. 7A , 7B 7C, show the same architecture for implementing the present invention in a protection device 700 according to the first embodiment. Fig. 7A , 7B 7C illustrate a protection device 700 and correspond to different positions of a contact element 740A (hereinafter element 740A) included in a switching mechanism 740 similar to the switching mechanism 340 described above.

[0141] The protection device 700 includes two connection terminals 701 and 702. The connection terminals 701 and 702 are similar to the above Figure 3 The connecting terminals 301 and 302 are provided.

[0142] The protection device 700 includes a power switch 710 similar to the power switch 310 of the protection device 300 described above.

[0143] The protection device 700 includes a main electrical contact 730. The main electrical contact 730 can be switched between an open state in which the electrical contacts are separated and a closed state in which the electrical contacts are in contact. The main electrical contact 730 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 3 The main electrical contacts 330 are provided.

[0144] The protection device 700 includes an auxiliary electrical contact 752. The auxiliary electrical contact 752 can be switched between an open state in which the electrical contacts are separated and a closed state in which the electrical contacts are in contact. The auxiliary electrical contact 752 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 3 The main electrical contacts 352 are provided.

[0145] The protection device 700 includes a switching mechanism 740 (referred to as "COMMUT" in FIG. 7 ). The switching mechanism 740 is adapted to switch the main electrical contact 730 and the auxiliary electrical contact 752 from an open state to a closed state, and from a closed state to an open state. The switching mechanism 740 is similar to the above-mentioned Figure 3 The switching mechanism 340 is provided.

[0146] In the first embodiment of the present invention, the switching mechanism 740 includes a contact element 740A including an upper portion of the main contact 730 and an upper portion of the auxiliary contact 752. The element 740A is made of a conductive material and allows electrical continuity between the connection terminals 701 and 702 when the upper portion of the main contact 730 or the upper portion of the auxiliary contact 752 contacts the lower portion of the corresponding contact.

[0147] The element 740A is rotatably mounted on the pin 740B, and the switching mechanism 740 is adapted to allow the element 740A to rotate about the pin 740B. Fig. 7A The high position shown and Figure 7C The protective device 700 pivots between the lower position shown. The upper position corresponds to the open position of the protective device 700. The lower position corresponds to the closed position of the protective device 700.

[0148] The protection device 700 is adapted so that when the element 740A moves from its high position to its low position, or vice versa, the element 740A passes through Figure 7B The intermediate position shown. In this intermediate position, the auxiliary contact 752 is closed and the main contact 730 is open. To this end, as shown in FIG. 7 , the lower portion of the auxiliary contact 752 can be raised relative to the lower portion of the main contact 730, and the lower portion of the auxiliary contact 752 can be mounted on, for example, a spring. Therefore, when the element 740A moves from the high position to the low position, the element 740A first contacts the lower portion of the auxiliary contact 752, and then, for example, due to the elasticity of the spring on which the lower portion of the auxiliary contact 752 is mounted, the element 740A can continue to descend to reach Figure 7C The lower position shown in FIG. 1 shows the main contact 730 and the auxiliary contact 752 are both closed. This offset arrangement of the contacts allows for contact (closing) during and according to the above-described closing and opening methods and during Figure 5 and 6 A time offset is introduced between the main contacts and the auxiliary contacts during the opening of the protection device 700 shown in FIG.

[0149] The protection device 700 includes a striker 754 similar to the striker 354 of the protection device 300 described above. When a fault current passes through the striker, the striker can activate the tripping (referred to as “TRIP”) of the switching mechanism 740, thereby causing the element 740A to pivot upward and trip by rotating about the pin 740B, first interrupting the main contact 730 ( Figure 7B middle position shown), and then disconnect the auxiliary contact 752 ( Fig. 7A disconnected position shown).

[0150] In other words, the protection device 700 includes a safety device similar to the safety device 350 of the above-mentioned protection device 300. The safety device of the protection device 700 includes an auxiliary contact 752, a striker 754 and a current limiting element 755, the striker 754 is adapted to trip the switching mechanism 740 and put the screen 721 in place.

[0151] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 , the striker 754 is adapted to trip the switchgear 740 and place the screen 721 in place when a fault current greater than a predetermined value flows through the protection device.

[0152] The protection device 700 may include a screen 721 similar to the screen 321 of the protection device 300 described above. In the embodiment shown in FIG7 , the screen 721 is adapted to be pushed to the left of the figure by the striker 752, thereby ultimately being inserted between the lower and upper parts (on the element 740A) of the main contact 730, effectively preventing possible closing of the main contact 730.

[0153] Protection device 700 may include a current limiting element 755 similar to element 355 of protection device 300 described above.

[0154] The protection device 700 is suitable for implementing the above and Figure 5 Safety method implemented during opening of protective device shown.

[0155] The protection device 700 is suitable for implementing during the closing of the above protection device and Figure 6 The safety method shown in .

[0156] FIG. 8 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a second embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0157] Figure 8 includes three Fig. 8A , 8B 8C, show the same architecture for implementing the present invention in a protection device 800 according to a second embodiment. Fig. 8A , 8B 8C illustrate a protection device 800 and correspond to different positions of a contact element 840A (hereinafter referred to as element 840A) included in a switching mechanism 840 similar to the switching mechanism 340 described above.

[0158] The protection device 800 corresponds to an alternative embodiment of the protection device 700 described above and differs from the latter in that it does not include a spring supporting the lower part of the auxiliary contact 752 and making it possible to produce a temporary offset between the opening and closing of the main contacts and the auxiliary contacts during the lowering or rising movement of the element 740A.

[0159] The protection device 800 includes an element 840A, which is substantially similar to the element 740A, and includes two sub-elements 840Ap and 840As. The sub-element 840Ap includes the upper part of the main contact 830. The sub-element 840As includes the upper part of the auxiliary contact 852 and is flexible. The sub-element 840As is, for example, a spring leaf. The two sub-elements 840Ap and 840As are in the disconnected position ( Fig. 8A The mechanical offset between the positions of the auxiliary contacts 852 and the main contacts 830, the sub-element 840As being below the sub-element 840Ap, and the elasticity of the element 840As enable the auxiliary contacts 852 and the main contacts 830 to be closed during the closing period. Figure 5 and 6 The above-mentioned time offset is produced in the method shown in FIG.

[0160] The protection device 800 is suitable for implementing the above and Figure 5 Safety method implemented during opening of protective device shown.

[0161] The protection device 800 is suitable for implementing during the closing of the above protection device and Figure 6 The safety method shown in .

[0162] FIG. 9 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a third embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0163] Figure 9 includes three Fig. 9A , 9B 9C show the same architecture for implementing the present invention in a protection device 900 according to the third embodiment. Fig. 9A , 9B 9C illustrate protection device 900 and correspond to different positions of a contact element 940A (hereinafter element 940A) included in a switching mechanism 940 similar to switching mechanism 340 described above.

[0164] In this alternative embodiment, during the descending or ascending movement of element 940A, the time offset between the opening and closing of the main contact 930 and the auxiliary contact 952 is obtained by a cantilever between point 940B and a resilient pivot device (e.g., spring 925), point 940B being used to guide element 940A through the switching mechanism 940.

[0165] Protection device 900 includes a striker 954 similar to striker 354. When a fault current greater than a predetermined value flows through protection device 900, striker 954 is adapted to trip switchgear 940 and possibly place screen 921 in place.

[0166] For other embodiments, protection device 900 may include current limiting element 955 , which may be a fuse, and / or shield 921 , similar to current limiting element 355 and shield 321 , respectively.

[0167] The protection device 900 is suitable for implementing the above and Figure 5 Safety method implemented during opening of protective device shown.

[0168] The protection device 900 is suitable for implementing during the closing of the above protection device and Figure 6 The safety method shown in .

[0169] FIG. 10 schematically shows an architecture for implementing the invention according to a fourth embodiment, making it possible to manage the excursion kinematics between the main contacts and the arcing contacts.

[0170] Figure 10 includes Fig. 10A and 10B , showing three different positions (positions 1, 2 and 3, three reference marks corresponding to the three positions) of a contact element 1040A (hereinafter referred to as element 1040A) included in the switching mechanism 1040 Fig. 10A and 10B The same structure of the protection device 1000 in FIG. 1 (marked with a box in FIG. 1 ) (the disconnection position 1 is between two Fig. 10A and 10B ). The switching mechanism 1040 includes a contact element 1040A. Fig. 10A and 10B , are shown separately to explain their operation.

[0171] Fig. 10A and 10B Connection terminals 1001 and 1002 similar to connection terminals 301 and 302 are shown, as well as a power switch 1010 similar to power switch 310 (referenced to "SS CB" for "solid state circuit breaker"). A striker 1052 is shown, and the dashed line shows that the activation of the striker 1052 is suitable for tripping the switching mechanism 1040 (at Fig. 10A and 10B ), and a mobile screen 1021 similar to mobile screen 321 may be placed in place (for simplicity, Fig. 10B The movable screen 1021 is not shown in the figure. A current limiting element 1055 is also shown, which may be a fuse. The current limiting element 1055 is similar to the current limiting element 355.

[0172] A primary electrical contact 1030 and an auxiliary electrical contact 1052 are shown. The primary electrical contact 1030 is similar to the primary electrical contact 330. The auxiliary electrical contact 1052 is similar to the auxiliary electrical contact 352. As shown, a portion of each of the primary and auxiliary electrical contacts are included on the same element 1040A.

[0173] Element 1040A is an electrical conductor. Element 1040A comprises two hinged rods, spring-type elements maintaining the bent shape of element 1040A so that when element 1040A is lowered, as shown in position 2, the end of element 1040A, including a part of auxiliary electrical contact 1052, first contacts the fixed part of auxiliary electrical contact 1052.

[0174] The fixed stop 1025 is adapted so that the lowering of the element 1040A produces a tilting effect on the end of the element 1040A, the contact between the auxiliary electrical contacts 1052 is broken, and the main electrical contacts 1030 are closed, as shown in FIG. Fig. 10B The position is shown in 3.

[0175] Advantageously, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 , the main electrical contacts 1030 and the auxiliary electrical contacts 1052 are not in the closed position at the same time.

[0176] When the protection device 1000 is closed, Figure 6 In the manner of the method shown, the auxiliary electrical contact 1052 is therefore properly closed (step 610) before the main electrical contact 1030 is closed (step 620). If there is a fault current, this will activate the striker 1054 and cause the switching mechanism 1040 to trip, and the element 1040A to rise, which will disconnect the protection device. In this case, the element 1040A may be lifted even before it can contact the main electrical contact 1030.

[0177] When the protection device 1000 is disconnected, and with Figure 5 In a similar manner to the method shown, after the main contacts are opened (step 515, corresponding to the beginning of the movement of the element 1040A from position 3 to position 2), the auxiliary electrical contact 1052 is therefore appropriately opened (step 530; corresponding to the movement of the element 1040A from position 2 to position 1). The particular feature of the embodiment shown in FIG. 10 is that the intermediate step of closing the auxiliary electrical contact 1052 is performed immediately after the opening of the main electrical contact 1030 by tilting the end of the element 1040A around the stop 1025 when the element 1040A rises (the end of the travel of the element 1040A from position 3 to position 2).

[0178] FIG. 11 schematically shows the structure of a striker according to a first embodiment including a blocking element in its activated position.

[0179] The striker shown corresponds to the striker 354 described above. Fig.11A The striker 354 is shown in an inactive position, referred to as the rest position. Fig. 11B The striker 354 is shown in an activated position. Here, the striker 354 includes a blocking element 354A that is formed after the striker 354 has entered its Fig. 11B After the activation position shown, the blocking element 354 prevents the striker from returning to the Fig.11A The striker 354 is thus held in its striking position ( Fig. 11B ), and is adapted to thereby keep a switching mechanism, such as the switching mechanism 340 described above, tripped (or activated). Thus, once the striker 354 is activated, the switching mechanism 340 remains blocked, preventing the protection device 300 from being switched to the closed state. In other words, once the striker 354 is activated, the striker 354 maintains the action on the tripping mechanism (referred to as "TRIP" in the previous figures) of the switching mechanism, keeping the switching mechanism in its open position. The blocking element 354A causes the striker 354 to be moved from its rest position ( Fig.11A ) to its active position ( Fig. 11B )'s movement is irreversible.

[0180] Fig.12 The structure of a striker according to a second embodiment is schematically shown, including a blocking element in its activated position.

[0181] Fig.12 An alternative embodiment of a blocking element 354A is shown. In this embodiment of the invention, the blocking element 354A is conical in shape, allowing the striker to pass in one direction but preventing it from returning to a rest position.

[0182] Fig.13 The structure of a striker including a blocking element in its activated position according to a third embodiment is schematically shown.

[0183] Fig.13 An alternative embodiment of a blocking element 354A is shown. In this embodiment of the invention, the blocking element 354A takes the shape of a flexible tab so that the striker can be held in its activated position, preventing it from returning to its rest position.

[0184] FIG. 14 schematically shows the structure of a striker including a blocking element in its activated position according to a fourth embodiment.

[0185] FIG. 14 shows an alternative embodiment of a blocking element 354A. In this embodiment of the invention, the blocking element 354A takes the form of a flexible rod having a thickness at its ends so that the striker can be held in its activated position ( Fig. 14C position shown), preventing it from returning to its rest position ( Fig.14A The flexibility of the blocking element 354A allows the striker to be activated ( Fig. 14B The flexibility of the rod of the blocking element 354A corresponds to the passage from the rest position to the activated position), but the end of the flexible rod prevents the return to the rest position. The flexibility of the spring leaf advantageously makes it possible for the striker to remain in the rest and retracted positions.

[0186] FIG. 15 schematically shows the structure of an actuator according to a fifth embodiment including a blocking element in its activated position.

[0187] FIG. 15 shows a striker similar to striker 354 and including a blocking element 354A. The striker shown corresponds to an alternative embodiment of the striker shown in FIG. 11 . The conical shape of the striker end makes it possible to keep the striker in a stationary retracted position, since the spring force of the blocking element 354A is converted into a force to keep the striker in a retracted position by the contact of the end of the blocking element 354A on the cone. This principle advantageously replaces the spring that is usually present in the striker to keep the stationary position of the striker.

Claims

1. An electrical protection device (300), comprising: Two connecting terminals (301, 302), A main electrical contact (330) is separable and connected between the two connection terminals, and the main electrical contact can be switched between an open state in which the electrical contact is separated and a closed state in which the electrical contact is in contact. a switching mechanism (340) adapted to switch the main electrical contacts to an open state, a solid-state power switch (310) connected in series with the main electrical contact, the power switch being adapted to switch between an open state blocking the passage of current and a closed state allowing the passage of current, A safety device (350) connected in parallel with the main electrical contact, the safety device comprising: an auxiliary electrical contact (352) capable of being separated and moved between an open state and a closed state, the switching mechanism being adapted to switch the auxiliary electrical contact to the open state, a control unit (320) being adapted to switch the electrical protection device between the open state and the closed state, in the open state, the power switch, the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact being in the open state, and in the closed state, the power switch, the main electrical contact and the auxiliary electrical contact being in the closed state, the control unit being adapted to control the power switch and the switching mechanism, and: When the electrical protection device is closing, the auxiliary electrical contacts of the safety device (610) are closed before the main electrical contacts (620) and the power switch (630) are closed, When the electrical protection device is disconnecting, the main electrical contact (515) and the power switch (510) are disconnected before disconnecting the auxiliary electrical contacts (530, 570) of the safety device, The safety device is adapted, when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device: The switching mechanism (650) is activated to switch the main electrical contacts (330) and the auxiliary electrical contacts (352) to an open state (680).

2. The electrical protection device (300) according to the preceding claim, wherein: The safety device includes a first striker (354) adapted to activate the switching mechanism (340) to switch the main electrical contact (330) and the auxiliary electrical contact (352) to an open state when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device (350).

3. The electrical protection device (300) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The switching mechanism is suitable for switching the separable main electrical contacts and the separable auxiliary electrical contacts to an open state and a closed state, and the safety device is also suitable for: when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device, and after the switching mechanism has been activated to switch the separable main electrical contacts and the separable auxiliary electrical contacts to the open state, blocking the switching mechanism (340) to prevent the main electrical contacts and the auxiliary electrical contacts from switching to the closed state.

4. The electrical protection device according to claim 2 and 3, wherein: The first striker (354) includes a blocking element (354A) adapted to keep the switching mechanism (340) blocked when the striker is struck.

5. An electrical protection device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The safety device further comprises a current limiting element (355) connected in series with the auxiliary electrical contact (352).

6. An electrical protection device according to the preceding claim, wherein: The current limiting element (355) connected in series with the auxiliary electrical contact is a fuse.

7. An electrical protection device according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The safety device also includes a movable screen (321), which is made of an electrically insulating material and is suitable for moving between a first position and a second position. The movable screen is located in the first position by default and is located between the main electrical contacts to prevent contact between the main electrical contacts in the second position. The safety device includes a second striker, which is suitable for: - moving the movable screen to the second position when a current greater than a predetermined value flows through the safety device.

8. The electrical protection device according to claims 4 and 7, wherein: The first impactor (354) and the second impactor are the same impactor (354).

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