Adjustable bus support

Abstract

A bus bar support element of an adjustable bus bar support (90) is provided, the adjustable bus bar support (90) configured to provide support to a bus bar (100). The first engagement structure (21) of the busbar support element (11) is configured to engage the second busbar support element (12) in a first direction. The first engagement structure (21) is configured to, when engaged, allow a change in spacing between the busbar support element (11) and the second busbar support element (12) in the first direction. The second engagement structure (22) is configured to engage the third busbar support element (13) in a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the second engagement structure (22) is configured to allow a change in spacing between the busbar support element (11) and the third busbar support element (13) in the second direction when engaged. The bus bar (100) is housed in an adjustable spacing between the bus bar support element (11) and the second and third bus bar support elements (12, 13).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The invention relates to a busbar support element of an adjustable busbar support, a corresponding adjustable busbar support and a method of assembling a busbar support for supporting a busbar. Background Art

[0002] Busbars are conventionally employed to conduct high currents, and they are usually composed of metal strips or ribbons such as copper. Busbars are employed to transmit and / or distribute large amounts of electrical power. An exemplary application is a wind turbine generator, where the busbars can be connected to the stator of the electrical generator to transmit the generated electrical power. An example of a corresponding configuration is described, for example, in document EP 3800349 A1.

[0003] To support these busbars, existing solutions employ blocks of fixed dimensions that are assembled to carry and support the busbars. Figure 1 An example is illustrated in Figure 1, where a busbar support 200 comprises blocks 201 and 202 stacked alternately so as to support three busbars 100. The blocks 201, 202 provide electrical insulation and mechanical stability. The blocks are generally adapted to the dimensions of the busbar, in particular to its width 101 (designating the larger dimension of the elongation perpendicular to the busbar) and thickness 102 (designating the shorter dimension). The busbar support 200 can be fixed to the generator structure with two metal bolts 230, one on each side of the busbar. The bolts are pulled through holes in the support blocks and tightened to the generator structure. The blocks 201, 202 can be machined from larger plates, for example using specialized machining tools. The cost for manufacturing the blocks is relatively high because the blocks are generally made of glass fibers in epoxy resin, which leads to rapid degradation of standard machining tools, and also due to the glass powder generated during the machining process, which requires special health and safety measures. Alternatively, the blocks 201, 202 may be molded, which requires a mold (also called a "template") for each block, which is generally expensive to manufacture.

[0004] Both the busbar 100 and the support 200 are subject to tolerances so that gaps 210, 220 in the width direction or thickness direction may be created, or if the busbar is too wide, it will be impossible to assemble the support. In the event of a busbar insulation failure, the phase current carried by the busbar can slowly travel over the surface of the support towards the grounded generator structure, causing a phase-to-ground short circuit fault. This can lead to a generator failure that may require the generator to be removed from the wind turbine, resulting in considerable repair costs and efforts. For example, when the busbar thickness is too large compared to the spacing provided by the blocks 201, 202, a vertical gap may appear between the blocks 201, 202, where the bolts 230 are exposed. This may result in a shortened creepage and clearance distance between the busbar and the grounding bolts, and due to the shorter path to ground, it may be much easier for fault currents to occur.

[0005] In order to solve such a problem, it is possible to adapt the size of the blocks 201, 202. However, this may lead to expensive production delays. In addition, additional processing may be required, or new molds may need to be made, resulting in further delays and costs. In addition, the generator may include a variety of busbars of different sizes, and therefore may require a corresponding number of supports 200 of different sizes. In addition, a new type of generator will usually have a busbar size that is unique to that generator, which busbar size may, for example, depend on the current value assumed to be carried by the busbar. Therefore, the busbar support is usually newly designed for each new generator type. Therefore, the manufacturer needs to keep several busbar supports 200 of different sizes in stock, and may need to adapt the size of the support for each new generator type. This usually leads to additional design and manufacturing costs, because, for example, new molds must be made. Therefore, the traditional way of supporting busbars in wind turbine generators, for example, is plagued by several disadvantages. Summary of the invention

[0006] Therefore, there exists a need to alleviate at least some of the above mentioned disadvantages and to provide an improved busbar support.

[0007] This need is met by the features of the independent claim.The dependent claims describe embodiments of the invention.

[0008] According to one embodiment of the present invention, a busbar support element of an adjustable busbar support is provided. The busbar support element is configured to provide support for a busbar. The busbar support element includes a first engagement structure, which is configured to engage a second busbar support element along a first direction. The first engagement structure is configured to allow a change in the spacing between the busbar support element and the second busbar support element along the first direction when engaged. Optionally, the busbar support element may further include a second engagement structure, which is configured to engage a third busbar support element along a second direction different from the first direction. The second engagement structure may be configured to allow a change in the spacing between the busbar support element and the third busbar support element along the second direction when engaged. The busbar support element is configured to accommodate the busbar in the spacing between the busbar support element and the second busbar support element along the width direction of the busbar, and optionally accommodate the busbar in the spacing between the busbar support element and the third busbar support element along the thickness direction of the busbar.

[0009] By means of such a busbar support element (abbreviated herein as 'support element' or 'block'), the busbar support may be adjustable in a first direction and a second direction, respectively. Thus, tolerances in both busbar thickness and busbar width may be accommodated by the busbar support without the need to machine or mold new blocks. Furthermore, the busbar support element may allow support of busbars of different sizes, since it may allow adjustment in the width direction as well as in the thickness direction of the busbar. Thus, it may not be required to design and machine blocks of different sizes for busbars of different sizes used to transmit current in a particular electrical system, and it may likewise be unnecessary to design and manufacture new busbar supports for newly developed or differently rated electrical systems. Different busbar sizes associated with such systems may be accommodated by busbar supports provided by the busbar support element. Thus, the busbar support element may provide versatility, since it may allow support of busbars for a variety of generator types and a variety of busbars of different sizes, thereby reducing overall costs. Furthermore, since tolerances may be compensated by adjustability, delays in production may be avoided, and the risk of electrical failures may be reduced. In particular, gaps between blocks and associated shortened creepage distances may be avoided. Furthermore, since the busbar support can be assembled from corresponding busbar support elements, it may not be required to process different sizes or provide molds of different sizes. Furthermore, by only assembling additional busbar support elements, the number of busbars supported by the busbar support may be easily adjustable. Assembling an adjustable busbar support may require only one or two types of busbar support elements.

[0010] In one embodiment, the first direction may be substantially orthogonal to the second direction. The first direction may be the width direction of the busbar, and the second direction may be the thickness direction of the busbar. Accordingly, the busbar support may be adjustable both along the width direction of the busbar and along the thickness direction of the busbar. It should be clear that the first direction and / or the second direction may also be provided at an angle to the width / thickness direction of the busbar, while still allowing corresponding adjustability.

[0011] The first engagement structure may comprise a first side providing a first support surface for the busbar and / or a second side providing a second support surface for a second (different) busbar. The first side may be opposite to the second side. The busbar support element may thus support busbars above and below the first engagement structure so that the support elements may be stacked to accommodate the busbars therebetween. A change along the second direction may change the spacing between the first support surface of the (first) busbar support element and the corresponding second support surface of the third busbar support element. The first and second support surfaces may be particularly configured as lateral surfaces supporting the busbar (e.g., surfaces defined by extensions along the longitudinal and width directions of the busbar).

[0012] The busbar support element may include a side support surface configured to provide support to a side surface of the busbar (defined by extension along the longitudinal direction and the thickness direction of the busbar), wherein the side support surface may extend along the second direction. For example, a change along the first direction may change the spacing between the side support surface of the (first) busbar support element and the corresponding side support surface of the second busbar support element, thereby changing the spacing along the width direction.

[0013] In one embodiment, the first engagement structure and / or the second engagement structure may be configured to allow a smooth variation of the spacing along the respective first or second direction, or may be configured to allow a variation between two, three or more predefined spacings along the respective directions. Thus, it may accommodate a plurality of (particularly three or more) different sizes in the width direction and / or thickness direction. For example, snap-in elements such as notches may be provided on the respective engagement structures to predefine different spacings and therefore different distances in the width direction and / or thickness direction.

[0014] Preferably, the first engagement structure and / or the second engagement structure are configured to slidably engage the second busbar support element and / or the third busbar support element, respectively, to allow variation in spacing. For example, a corresponding complementary engagement structure may be provided on the second and / or third support element, and this may slidably engage.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first engagement structure includes one, two, three or more fingers or grooves, which are configured to engage the corresponding grooves or fingers of the second busbar support element. Two fingers (e.g., pins) may form a groove therebetween. Both the first and second busbar support elements may include corresponding fingers that engage with each other, respectively. For example, one support element may include two or three fingers that provide one or two grooves, respectively, and the other support element may include one or two fingers that engage the corresponding grooves. In some configurations, one support element may provide many (1, 2, 3 or more) grooves, while the other support element may provide a corresponding number of fingers that are configured to engage the corresponding grooves. In other embodiments, both the first and second support elements may include the same number of fingers. In any case, a stable and slidable support may be achieved, which further provides electrical insulation between adjacent busbars.

[0016] In one example, the first engagement structure and / or the second engagement structure may include an interlocking structure that at least partially constrains movement in a direction perpendicular to the respective first direction or second direction. In some configurations, the interlocking structure may be formed by the fingers and / or the slots themselves, for example by providing a staggered configuration of the fingers, or a corresponding structure providing an interlock may be provided on the fingers and / or the slots. The interlocking structure may, for example, be at least one of a shoulder, a slot, a keyway, a key, a groove, a rib, a recess or a profile (such as a sawtooth or triangular profile). The interlocking structure may be formed on the fingers or in the slots, in particular on the side walls thereof (i.e., the wall facing the opposite wall of the slot, or the side wall of the finger facing the side wall of the adjacent finger). The interlocking structure of the first / second engagement structure may be complementary to a corresponding interlocking structure on a corresponding engagement structure of the second or third busbar support element, respectively.

[0017] The interlocking structure may be configured to provide alignment between the first / second engagement structure and the second / third busbar support element, respectively, in a direction perpendicular to the first / second direction, and / or to transfer forces in a direction perpendicular to the respective first / second direction. Thus, the strength of the mechanical connection between the first support element and the second support element provided by the first engagement structure may be increased. In particular, it may allow the mechanical connection to absorb forces generated between the busbars supported by the first and second support surfaces, which forces may be caused by current flowing through the busbars.

[0018] The second engagement structure may include an annular sleeve axially protruding in the second direction and / or an annular recess axially extending in the second direction. For example, the annular sleeve and / or the annular recess may be shaped and dimensioned so as to allow a form-fitting engagement between the sleeve and the recess. Such engagement may be within tolerance, and it may be a loose fit or an interference fit. Because the annular sleeve and the annular recess may be provided on opposite sides of the support element, they may not directly engage with each other. However, the annular sleeve may engage with an annular recess provided on an adjacent third busbar support element, and the annular sleeve and the annular recess may have the same structure and shape, or vice versa. By providing the second engagement structure as a corresponding annular sleeve or annular recess, sliding engagement and adjustment of the spacing in the thickness direction of the busbar may be achieved. For example, when the spacing changes in the second direction, the sleeve may be configured to bridge the distance (e.g., gap) between the busbar support element and the third busbar support element. Therefore, it may, for example, prevent the exposure of the fastening member (e.g., stud) extending through the sleeve. Thus, the sleeve may ensure that the insulating material of the sleeve is present between the busbar and the fastening member, so that no air path exists between the busbar and the fastening element.

[0019] The busbar support element may, for example, include a through hole configured to accommodate a fastening member for mounting the busbar support element. The sleeve and / or the recess may extend coaxially with the through hole and may be configured to accommodate a fastening member passing therethrough. The fastening member may, for example, be a bolt, a stud, a screw, etc. The fastening of the fastening member may, for example, fix the first and second spacings in place. The fastening member may clamp the busbar between the support elements, in particular between the first and third support elements. Because the fastening member extends through the sleeve and / or the recess, and the sleeves and recesses of adjacent support elements may engage, exposure of the fastening member may be avoided.

[0020] In one embodiment, the first engagement structure is configured to provide electrical insulation between a busbar on one side of the first engagement structure and a busbar on an opposite side of the first engagement structure. The two busbars can be supported, for example, by the corresponding first and second support surfaces mentioned above, and the engagement structure can provide corresponding electrical insulation. The second engagement structure can be configured to provide electrical insulation between a busbar supported by the busbar support element and a fastening member extending through the second engagement structure. For example, a corresponding sleeve can provide such electrical insulation. Therefore, the second engagement structure can eliminate the gap distance between the grounded fastening member and the busbar.

[0021] The busbar support element may comprise a body made of insulating material. The first and / or second engagement structure may be integral with the body, or may be a separate element therefrom. The sleeve may, for example, be a separate element located in a recess within the body of the support element. Similarly, the first engagement structure may be mechanically connected to such a body.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the busbar support element is a one-piece integral body. Thus, the first and second support structures (such as fingers and / or sleeves) may be an integral part of the body. The busbar support element may be made of a molded material. For example, it may be molded as a single piece. Preferably, the busbar support element is made of an electrically insulating material. The material may include glass fiber, it may be a plastic material.

[0023] According to another embodiment of the present invention, an adjustable busbar support is provided. The adjustable busbar support includes a first busbar support element and a second busbar support element, each of which can have any configuration described herein. The first engagement structure of the first busbar support element can be configured to engage the first engagement structure of the second busbar support element. The corresponding engagement can allow a change in the spacing between the first and second busbar support elements along a first direction.

[0024] The first engagement structure of the first busbar support element may be formed complementarily to the first engagement structure of the second busbar support element to allow engagement. For example, the first engagement structures of the first and second busbar support elements may be configured to form a form-fitting connection. This may also be referred to as a "positive connection" or a "form-locking connection", or an "interlocking connection". As mentioned above, the first support structure may include complementary fingers and / or grooves, and optionally complementary interlocking features. Examples are complementary shoulders, grooves and key pins, complementary structures, etc., formed, for example, in the side walls of the fingers and grooves. These may provide additional mechanical support.

[0025] The first and second support elements may form part of the bracket.Similarly configured third and fourth support elements may form a second part of the bracket, which together with the first part of the bracket clamp the busbar therebetween.

[0026] For example, the adjustable busbar support may include a third busbar support element and / or a fourth busbar support element, each of which may have any configuration of the busbar support elements described herein. The second engagement structure of the third / fourth busbar support element may engage the second engagement structure of the first / second busbar support element, respectively. The first engagement structure of the third busbar support element may further engage the first engagement structure of the fourth busbar support element. Thus, the first to fourth busbar support elements may form a structure around a space that can accommodate a busbar, wherein the spacing between the elements is adjustable in both the width direction and the thickness direction of the busbar.

[0027] The second engagement structure of all busbar support elements may be similar or identical, so that the orientation of the first support relative to the second support may also be changed, ie the fourth support element may engage with the first support element.

[0028] As mentioned above, when the busbar support is assembled, the busbar can be clamped between the first engagement surfaces of the first and second support elements and the second support surfaces of the third and fourth support elements, wherein the first, second, third and fourth support elements are provided on the corresponding first engagement structures. The side support surfaces of the first and second support elements can provide lateral support for the busbar; the side support surfaces can be in contact with the busbar, or can provide a certain gap towards the busbar.

[0029] In one embodiment, the first and third busbar support elements may have substantially the same shape, and / or the second and fourth busbar support elements may have substantially the same shape. The first and second busbar support elements may have different shapes, or may have substantially the same shape. Substantially the same may mean identical within manufacturing tolerances, such as by using the same or corresponding molds to manufacture the respective support elements. Thus, for many different busbar sizes, only one or two molds may be needed to make the busbar supports.

[0030] The adjustable busbar support may comprise a plurality of pairs of first and second busbar support elements, which may be stacked on top of each other (they may in particular be engaged by their respective second engagement structures). A busbar may be arranged and supported between two pairs. A stack may for example comprise at least two, three, four or five pairs. One pair may terminate the adjustable busbar support, or a corresponding termination element may be provided, which may be in the form of a plate or a bracket. The adjustable busbar support may be configured to support at least three busbars.

[0031] In other examples, the third busbar support element may have a different structure than the first busbar support element. For example, it may be a simple plate, such as a terminal plate, which may be engaged by a second engagement structure (e.g., it may have a hole for engagement by a sleeve). Such a plate may span both the first and second support elements and may also be engaged by the second engagement structure of the second support element. The plate may, for example, support nuts or bolts for mounting the busbar support.

[0032] It should be further clear that additional elements may be provided between the first support element and the second and / or third support element. For example, a plate, such as a thin plate made of plastic or hard rubber, may be provided between the first and third busbar support elements. Such a plate may, for example, include a hole that allows the second engagement structure to pass through the hole to engage with the third support element (a longer sleeve / protrusion may be provided), or such a plate may not extend all the way to the second engagement structure and may therefore not interfere with the second engagement structure.

[0033] Furthermore, one, two or more busbars may be supported in the space between the first busbar support element and the second / third busbar support element. For example, busbars carrying the same electrical phase may be supported. They may be separated by corresponding plates.

[0034] The adjustable busbar support may further include one, two or more fastening members that may extend through the second engagement structure of the busbar support element (e.g., one for stacking of the first element and one for stacking of the second element). By tightening these fastening members, the busbar support element may be fixed in place and the position of the busbar supported therebetween may be fixed.

[0035] The spacing along the first direction may be adjustable in a range of at least 10 mm, 20 mm, 30 mm, 50 mm or even 100 mm. The spacing along the first (busbar width) direction may be variable, for example, between at least 60 mm and 80 mm, preferably between at least 50 mm and 90 mm, for example between at least 40 mm and 100 mm. It is also possible to provide two or more types of busbar support elements; one type may be variable, for example, between 60 mm and 120 mm, and the other type may be variable, along the first direction, between 120 mm and 200 mm. For example, the spacing along the first direction may be variable in a range of at least 10 mm or 20 mm, and this range may lie between a value of 40 mm and a value of 200 mm. The spacing along the second direction may be variable by at least 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm or even 15 mm. The spacing along the thickness direction of the busbar may be variable, for example, between at least 10 mm and 15 mm, between at least 5 mm and 20 mm, or between at least 2.5 mm and 30 mm. It should be appreciated that the desired dimensions may be selected depending on the particular application.

[0036] According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided an electric power system, in particular a wind turbine power generation system, comprising one or more busbars and an adjustable busbar support, the adjustable busbar support having any configuration described herein, the adjustable busbar support supporting the one or more busbars. According to another embodiment of the present invention, there is provided a wind turbine comprising a corresponding electric power system. By such an electric power system or wind turbine, advantages similar to those outlined above can be achieved. In particular, by avoiding exposure of fastening components and increasing creepage distances, faults on the electric power system can be prevented, and assembly can be facilitated and assembly can be less expensive.

[0037] According to another embodiment of the present invention, a method for assembling a busbar support for supporting a busbar is provided. The method includes providing a busbar support element having a first engagement structure, and engaging the first engagement structure with a second busbar support element along a first direction to accommodate the busbar between the busbar support element and the second busbar support element along a width direction, wherein the engagement allows a change in the spacing between the busbar support element and the second busbar support element along the first direction. Optionally, the busbar support element may have a second engagement structure, and the method may further include engaging the second engagement structure with a third busbar support element along a second direction different from the first direction to accommodate the busbar between the busbar support element and the third busbar support element along a thickness direction, wherein the engagement allows a change in the spacing between the busbar support element and the third busbar support element along the second direction.

[0038] The method may be employed with busbar support elements and busbar supports having any configuration described herein.By such a method the advantages outlined above may be achieved.

[0039] It is to be understood that the features mentioned above and those yet to be explained below may be used not only in the respective combinations indicated but also in other combinations or alone, without departing from the scope of the present invention. In particular, unless indicated to the contrary, the features of the different aspects and embodiments of the present invention may be combined with each other. For example, the adjustable busbar support may include a busbar support element having any of the described configurations, and the busbar support element may be configured as described with respect to the adjustable busbar support. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] The foregoing and other features and advantages of the present invention will become further apparent from the following detailed description read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which like reference numerals refer to like elements.

[0041] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing a busbar support member of the prior art.

[0042] Figure 2 is a schematic diagram illustrating a wind turbine power system including an adjustable busbar support according to one embodiment.

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing a busbar supporting element according to one embodiment.

[0044] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram showing a busbar support element according to an embodiment, the busbar support element and Figure 3 The busbar support elements are complementary.

[0045] Figure 5 is a diagram illustrating a bonding according to an embodiment Figure 3 and Figure 4 Schematic diagram of busbar support elements to form an adjustable busbar support.

[0046] Figure 6 It is shown Figure 3 Schematic diagram of the top view of the busbar support element.

[0047] Figure 7 It is shown Figure 6 Schematic diagram of a cross-sectional side view of a busbar support element along line AA.

[0048] Figure 8 is a diagram illustrating a bonding according to an embodiment Figure 3 Schematic diagram of two busbar support elements to form an adjustable busbar support.

[0049] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a bonding according to an embodiment Figure 3 The two busbar support elements and Figure 4 Schematic diagram of two busbar support elements to form an adjustable busbar support.

[0050] Fig.10 is a schematic diagram illustrating a perspective cross-sectional view of an adjustable busbar support according to one embodiment.

[0051] Fig.11 is a schematic diagram showing a busbar supporting element according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments and / or examples of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It is to be understood that the following description of the embodiments is given only for the purpose of illustration and is not to be understood in a limiting sense. It should be noted that the drawings are considered to be schematic representations only, and the elements in the drawings are not necessarily proportional to each other. More specifically, the representations of the various elements are selected so that their functions and general purposes become apparent to those skilled in the art. As used herein, the singular forms "one", "an" and "the" are intended to also include plural forms, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Unless otherwise indicated, the terms "include", "have", "include" and "comprise" are to be interpreted as opening terms (i.e., meaning "including, but not limited to").

[0053] Embodiments disclosed herein provide an adjustable busbar support assembled from two, three, four or more busbar support elements, which are abbreviated herein as support elements or blocks (adaptable busbar support blocks, ABSus). Two blocks can be joined in an adjustable manner in the width direction of the busbar, thereby providing adjustability of the support in the width direction, and two blocks can be joined adjustably in the thickness direction of the busbar, so that the support is adjustable relative to the busbar thickness. Therefore, a busbar can be supported by four blocks, and the spacing between the four blocks can be adjusted so that busbars of different sizes can be supported between these blocks. Therefore, only one or two types of blocks need to be manufactured to accommodate multiple different busbar sizes. Therefore, the blocks can be manufactured inexpensively. The blocks can further be provided with features that improve electrical insulation toward the grounding element, such as fastening members for mounting the blocks. In addition, they can easily adapt to the tolerances of the busbar size so that assembly can continue and no new blocks need to be manufactured when the busbar size is at the limit of the allowable tolerance. Because the disclosed busbar supports can accommodate all occurring busbar sizes, there is no further need to maintain inventory of a wide variety of busbar supports of different sizes.

[0054] Figure 2 An electrical system 320 of a wind turbine 300 (particularly a wind turbine power generation system) is schematically illustrated and includes a wind turbine rotor 301 having rotor blades coupled to a generator 321 of the electrical system 320 via a gearbox 302. A power converter 322 is coupled to the rotor of the generator 321 to control power output from the generator, which power output can be supplied from the stator to the power grid 400 via a transformer 324. A line filter 323 can be provided between the power converter 322 and the power grid 400. In such an electrical system 320, busbars can be employed at different locations, for example for conveying current away from the generator 321, for distributing power to one or more converters, or for conveying converted electrical power. Such a busbar 100 can be supported by an adjustable busbar support 90 having any configuration described herein. Although Figure 2 The power system 320 with a doubly-fed induction generator topology is illustrated, but the power system 320 may also have a full converter topology, in which adjustable busbar supports may also be employed. It may further be employed in other types of power systems, such as conventional power plants.

[0055] Figure 3 The figure shows a busbar support element (block) 11 including a body 50 on which a first engagement structure 21 and a second engagement structure 22 are provided. The first engagement structure 21 includes pins or fingers 31, which form a slot 32 between them. The pins or fingers 31 extend away from the body 50. On the side of the engagement structure 21 facing the busbar to be supported, a first support surface 35 is provided. On the opposite side of the engagement structure 21, a second support surface 36 is provided, which supports another busbar arranged on the opposite side of the finger 31. The first and second support surfaces 35, 36 support the lateral surface of the busbar defined by the width direction 101 and the longitudinal direction of the busbar. The body 50 further includes a side support surface 45, which can be provided to support the side surface of the busbar defined by the thickness direction 102 and the longitudinal direction of the busbar.

[0056] The first engagement structure 21 may include an interlocking structure 61. Figure 3 In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the interlocking structure 61 is provided in the form of a shoulder formed in the finger 31. The interlocking structure 61 can be configured to provide an improved mechanical connection towards the second block. It can in particular improve the mechanical support between two generatrixes adjacent to the first and second support surfaces 35, 36. The interlocking structure 61 can have any other suitable shape, such as a slot, a key, one or more grooves, one or more ribs, a triangular or sawtooth profile, etc.

[0057] The block 11 further comprises a second engagement structure 22, which is configured to engage a third block. Figure 3 In the example of the embodiment of the present invention, the second engagement structure comprises a sleeve or annular protrusion 41 extending from the body 50, in particular in a direction corresponding to the thickness direction 102 of the busbar. It may in particular extend in an axial direction parallel to the side support surface 45 and perpendicular to the first support surface 45. The sleeve 41 may be coaxial with a through hole 55 extending through the body 50, which may be configured to accommodate a fastening member. The first engagement structure may extend and provide engagement in a direction parallel to the first support surface 35 and perpendicular to the side support surface 45, and in particular in a direction parallel to the width direction 101 of the busbar 100.

[0058] The first engagement structure 21 is configured to engage the corresponding (complementary) engagement structure of the second block in an adjustable manner along the width direction 101. Therefore, the busbar support assembled from two or more corresponding blocks can be adjusted in the width direction. The second engagement structure 22 is configured to engage the third block in an adjustable manner along the thickness direction 102 of the busbar. Therefore, when assembling the busbar support, the spacing provided between the third block and the first block 11 can be adjusted to adapt to the thickness of the busbar.

[0059] Figure 4 The second block 12 is shown in the figure, which is basically the same as Figure 3 The first block 11 is similarly configured, so that the above explanations also apply. In particular, the second block 12 similarly includes first and second engagement structures 21, 22, first and second support surfaces 35, 36, side support surfaces 45 and a body 50. The fingers 31 and grooves 32 of the first engagement structure 21 are complementary to the fingers 31 and grooves 32 of the first block 11. Similarly, the interlocking structure 62 of the second block 12 is complementary to the interlocking structure 61 of the first block 11. Therefore, the first engagement structures 21 of the first and second blocks 11, 12 can be engaged with each other along the width direction 101 of the busbar 100, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 The fingers 31 of the second block 12 slide into the grooves 32 provided in the first engagement structures 21 of the block 11, wherein a form-fitting connection is established. The interlocking structures 61, 62 engage with each other and, in addition to extending the creepage distance, also improve the mechanical stability.

[0060] The first engagement structures 21 of the first and second blocks 11, 12 preferably engage in a sliding manner so as to provide a seamless adjustment of the distance between the respective side support surfaces 45. Thus, the distance between these side support surfaces 45 can vary substantially, for example more than 10 mm, 20 mm, 50 mm or 100 mm, so that generatrixes having dimensions in the width direction that vary in a considerable range can be accommodated in the space between the side support surfaces 45, i.e. in the space between the main bodies 50 of the first and second blocks 11, 12. Alternatively, a snap-lock engagement can be provided, wherein for example grooves and ribs can be provided at fingers at a predetermined spacing between the two side support surfaces 45, so that a predefined distance can be set between these side support surfaces.

[0061] Figure 6 3 is a top view of the first block 11, which shows the fingers 31 extending from the body 50 and forming the slots 32. The through holes 55 provided in the body 50 extend axially in a direction perpendicular to the first support surface 35, i.e. parallel to the generatrix thickness direction 102. The central finger 31 has a recess 56 provided therein, which can facilitate the molding of the finger, in particular to achieve the molding of a material of corresponding thickness.

[0062] Figure 7 Shown along Figure 6 The second engagement structure 22 includes a sleeve 41 and a recess 42 provided circumferentially in the through hole 55. The recess 42 has an inner diameter size matching the outer diameter size of the sleeve 41, so that the sleeve 41 can engage the recess 42 (corresponding to the adjacent block).

[0063] This is Figure 8 , in which the first block 11 is engaged with the third block 13 along the thickness direction 102 of the busbar to form a busbar support 90. The sleeve 41 of the second engagement structure 22 of the block 11 thereby engages the recess 42 of the second engagement structure 22 of the third block 13. The engagement may be a sliding engagement and may in particular allow adjustment of the spacing between the first support surface 35 of the block 11 and the second support surface 36 of the block 13. Thus, between the blocks 11 and 13, busbars of different thicknesses may be accommodated. The axial extension of the sleeve 41 may, for example, be selected so as to allow adjustment within a desired thickness range, for example more than 2 mm, 5 mm, 10 mm or even 15 mm. It should be noted that the shape and structure of the third block 13 are substantially identical to those of the block 11.

[0064] Fig. 9The assembly of four blocks 11, 12, 13 and 14 is shown to form an adjustable busbar support 90, wherein the spaces between the four blocks are adjustable to accommodate busbars of different widths and different thicknesses. By joining the first joining structure of the blocks 11 and 12 and the corresponding blocks 13 and 14, and by further joining the blocks 11 and 13 and the corresponding blocks 12 and 14, the following occurs: Figure 5 and Figure 8 Assemble as described.

[0065] In this example, blocks 11 and 13 are identical, and blocks 12 and 14 are identical. Blocks 11 and 12 are different, and in particular the shape of their respective first engagement structures is different. The second engagement structures of all blocks may be similar, so that blocks 13, 14 may also be rotated 180° (so that blocks 11 and 14 engage, and blocks 12 and 13 engage). In other embodiments, the second engagement structures may be different between blocks 11 and 12, thereby ensuring stacking of blocks 11, 13 of the same kind.

[0066] In other configurations, the first engagement structure may be configured to have the same shape for all blocks, so that blocks 11 to 14 may have substantially the same shape and structure ( Fig.11 Provides corresponding examples).

[0067] In the present example, each block 11 to 14 is a single piece, i.e. the first and second engagement structures are integral with the body 50. Such blocks can be manufactured, for example, by molding (in a single molding step), by machining, by 3D printing, etc. In other examples, the first and / or second engagement structures can be separate components that can be mounted to the body 50, or the body 50 can be mounted to the corresponding engagement structures. For example, the sleeve 41 can be separated from the body 50, and the body 50 can include a recess in which the sleeve 41 is positioned. Similarly, the finger 31 can, for example, be inserted into the body 50, for example using a snap-on connection, etc. However, due to ease of manufacturing, it is preferred to provide each block as a single molded part.

[0068] The first engagement structures of the first and second blocks 11, 12 may of course have different shapes and may, for example, have different numbers of fingers. Each block may have the same number of fingers, or one block may have a greater number of fingers than the other. For example, only one finger may be provided on the second block 12 and two fingers on the first block 11, or each block may include two fingers. Other configurations are conceivable.

[0069] The first and second blocks 11, 12 may form a bracket, and a plurality of such brackets may be stacked on top of each other to support a plurality of busbars. For example, blocks 13 and 14 provide a second bracket having a similar shape and configuration to the first bracket provided by blocks 11 and 12. Thus, by means of the first and second blocks 11, 12, a relatively large structure supporting a plurality of busbars may be assembled.

[0070] Fig.10 The busbar support 90 is shown assembled, supporting three different busbars 100 that can carry current for three AC phases L1, L2, L3. Each busbar has a width along direction 101, a thickness along direction 102, and an insulation 105 (e.g. two layers) can be provided around each busbar in the area of ​​the busbar support 90. As can be seen, four first busbar support elements 11 and four second busbar support elements 12 are assembled to form the adjustable busbar support 90. The busbar support elements 11, 12 engage with their respective first and second engagement structures. Fig.10 A cross-sectional perspective view is shown illustrating fastening members 93, one fastening member 93 extending through the first support element 11 and the other fastening member 93 extending through the second support element 12. By tightening the fastening members 93, both support elements 11, 12 can be fixed in position relative to the width and thickness direction of the busbar. The busbar can be clamped, for example, in the thickness direction. In the width direction, the spacing between the first and second support elements 11, 12 can be adjusted so that there is still a small gap between the busbar and the side support surface, such as Fig.10 As shown in .

[0071] As in Fig.10 As can be seen in the figure, the sleeve 41 of the block engages with the recess 42 of the adjacent block, so that when this second engagement structure is still in engagement, the spacing between the two blocks is adjustable in the width direction. Therefore, when the spacing is adjusted to accommodate different busbar thicknesses, the gap between the two blocks is bridged by the sleeve 41. Accordingly, the fastening member 93 is not exposed. Therefore, there is no air path between the busbar 100 and the grounding fastening member 93. Therefore, the gap distance between the grounded portion and the portion with insufficient voltage can be eliminated, thereby reducing the risk of creepage current flow and the risk of failure.

[0072] Fig.10 The figure shows supports for three busbars of the same size. It should be clear that in other embodiments, different busbars may have different sizes. The adjustable busbar support 90 may, for example, accommodate different busbar thicknesses. Furthermore, it should be clear that for one electrical phase, multiple busbars may be provided. Fig.10The structure illustrated in FIG. 1 may, for example, accommodate a busbar for a single electrical phase, and further structures may be provided to accommodate corresponding busbars for further electrical phases. The insulation 105 around the busbar 100 is optional.

[0073] Fig.11 Another exemplary embodiment of a busbar support element or block 11 is shown. Fig.11 The busbar support element 11 can implement the above Figure 3-10 Any one of the supporting elements 11, 12, 13 and 14 explained. Fig.11 In the example of , four fingers 31 are provided and extend from the body 50, in particular in the width direction of the generatrix. A second engagement structure (not shown) may optionally be provided. Fig.11 In the example of , the arrangement of the fingers 31 is such that the first block 11 and the second block 12 can have the same structure and shape. Thus, it may be necessary to manufacture only a single type of block or busbar support element. The fingers 31 are staggered so that if a second entity is provided in which the block 11 is rotated 180°, the fingers 31 cooperate with each other and a form-fitting connection can be formed. Again, the number of fingers can vary, for example only two or six fingers can be provided. In order to form a second engagement structure on the body 50, the through hole 55 may include a recess into which a corresponding sleeve 41 can be placed. For example, a recess 42 may be provided on either side of the body 50 and a sleeve of sufficient size may be inserted between adjacent blocks in the stack. Other configurations are of course conceivable. By means of a plurality of Fig.11 The block 11 can thus be formed corresponding to Fig. 9 and Fig.10 The structure of the structure, ie a plurality of blocks 11 can be assembled into a busbar support for supporting 1, 2, 3 or more busbars, as outlined in detail above.

[0074] In embodiments of the present invention, one or two types of blocks may be sufficient to assemble a busbar support capable of supporting a wide variety of different busbar thicknesses and widths. Production delays and / or rework required to exactly meet the size of the busbar may be prevented. Further potential failures and short circuits may be prevented by the embodiments disclosed herein. Because only one or two different parts may need to be manufactured, the cost of manufacturing may be reduced, for example because only one or two molds are required. Likewise, the cost of installation time may be reduced. The need to keep different sized supports in stock may be avoided, and the use of widely available techniques (such as molding or 3D printing) to provide series production of only one or two block types may lead to further cost reductions.

[0075] Although specific embodiments are disclosed herein, various changes and modifications may be made without departing from the scope of the invention. The present embodiments are to be considered in all respects as illustrative and non-restrictive, and all changes coming within the meaning and equivalent range of the appended claims are intended to be included therein.

Claims

1. A busbar support element of an adjustable busbar support member (90), wherein: The busbar support element (11) is configured to provide support for the busbar (100), wherein the busbar support element (11) comprises: - a first engagement structure (21) configured to engage the second busbar support element (12) along a first direction, wherein the first engagement structure (21) is configured to allow a variation in the spacing between the busbar support element (11) and the second busbar support element (12) along the first direction when engaged; and - a second engagement structure (22) configured to engage the third busbar support element (13) along a second direction different from the first direction, wherein the second engagement structure (22) is configured to allow a variation in the spacing between the busbar support element (11) and the third busbar support element (13) along the second direction when engaged, The busbar supporting element (11) is configured to accommodate the busbar (100) in the spacing between the busbar supporting element (11) and the second busbar supporting element (12) along the width direction (101) of the busbar, and to accommodate the busbar in the spacing between the busbar supporting element (11) and the third busbar supporting element (13) along the thickness direction (102) of the busbar.

2. The busbar support element according to claim 1, wherein: The first direction is substantially orthogonal to the second direction, and / or wherein, The first direction is a width direction (101) of the bus bar (100), and the second direction is a thickness direction (102) of the bus bar (100) to be supported by the bus bar supporting element (11).

3. The busbar support element according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The first engagement structure (21) comprises a first side providing a first support surface (35) for a busbar and / or comprises a second side providing a second support surface (36) for a second busbar, wherein the first side is preferably opposite to the second side.

4. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first engaging structure (21) and / or the second engaging structure (22) are configured to allow a smooth variation of the pitch along the corresponding direction, or are configured to allow a variation between two, three or more predefined pitches along the corresponding direction.

5. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first engagement structure (21) and / or the second engagement structure (22) are configured to slidingly engage the second busbar support element (12) and / or the third busbar support element (13), respectively, to allow the variation in spacing.

6. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first engagement structure (21) includes one, two, three or more fingers (31) or slots (32), which are configured to engage corresponding slots (32) or fingers (31) of the second busbar support element (12).

7. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first engagement structure (21) and / or the second engagement structure (22) comprises an interlocking structure (61, 62) which at least partially constrains movement in a direction perpendicular to the respective first direction or second direction.

8. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The second engagement structure (22) comprises a sleeve (41) protruding axially in the second direction and / or comprises a recess (42) extending axially in the second direction, wherein, preferably, the sleeve (41) and the recess (42) are shaped and dimensioned so as to allow a form-fitting engagement between the sleeve (41) and the recess (42).

9. The busbar support element according to claim 8, wherein: The busbar support element (11) comprises a through hole (55) configured to accommodate a fastening member (93) for mounting the busbar support element (11), wherein the sleeve (41) and / or the recess (42) extend coaxially with the through hole (55) and are configured to accommodate the fastening member (93).

10. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The first joining structure (21) is configured to provide electrical insulation between a busbar (100) on one side of the first joining structure (21) and a busbar (100) on an opposite side of the first joining structure (21), and / or wherein the second joining structure (22) is configured to provide electrical insulation between a busbar (100) supported by the busbar support element (11) and a fastening member (93) extending through the second joining structure (22).

11. A busbar support element according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein: The busbar support element (11) is a one-piece integral body of molded material and / or is made of an electrically insulating material.

12. An adjustable busbar support, the adjustable busbar support being configured to support a busbar (100), wherein: The adjustable busbar support (90) comprises: - a first busbar support element (11) according to any of the preceding claims, and - a second busbar support element (12) according to any one of the preceding claims, The first engaging structure (21) of the first busbar supporting element (11) is configured to engage with the first engaging structure (21) of the second busbar supporting element (12), and the engagement allows a variation in the spacing between the first busbar supporting element (11) and the second busbar supporting element (12) along the first direction.

13. The adjustable busbar support according to claim 12, wherein: The first engaging structure (21) of the first busbar support element (11) is formed complementarily with the first engaging structure (21) of the second busbar support element (12) to allow the engagement, wherein the first engaging structure (21) of the first and second busbar support elements (11, 12) are preferably configured to form a form-fitting connection.

14. The adjustable busbar support according to claim 12 or 13, further comprising a third busbar support element (13) configured according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein: The second engaging structure (22) of the third busbar supporting element (13) is configured to engage the second engaging structure (22) of the first busbar supporting element (11), and / or further comprises a fourth busbar supporting element (14) configured according to any one of claims 1-11, wherein the second engaging structure (22) of the fourth busbar supporting element (14) is configured to engage the second engaging structure (22) of the second busbar supporting element (12).

15. A method for assembling a busbar support for supporting a busbar (100), the method comprising: - providing a busbar support element (11) having a first engagement structure (21) and a second engagement structure (22); - engaging the first engagement structure (21) with the second busbar support element (12) along a first direction to accommodate the busbar (100) between the busbar support element (11) and the second busbar support element (12) along a width direction (101), wherein the engagement allows a variation in the spacing between the busbar support element (11) and the second busbar support element (12) along the first direction; and - engaging the second engaging structure (22) with the third busbar supporting element (13) along a second direction different from the first direction to accommodate the busbar (100) between the busbar supporting element (11) and the third busbar supporting element (13) along the thickness direction (102), wherein the engaging allows a variation in the spacing between the busbar supporting element (11) and the third busbar supporting element (13) along the second direction.

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