Printed circuit board for plug-in circuit breaker

Abstract

The invention relates to a printed circuit board for a plug-in circuit breaker. A printed circuit board (PCB) is provided that includes a plurality of edge connectors, a pin connector, and a plurality of wires each electrically connecting one of the plurality of edge connectors to the pin connector. A plurality of edge connectors are positioned on the PCB such that the plurality of edge connectors can interface with a plurality of configured respective connectors of the circuit breaker. The configuration may include a configuration including a first type of circuit breaker and a configuration including a second type of circuit breaker. The first type of circuit breaker and the second type of circuit breaker may be 1-63 amperes (A) and 80-125 A circuit breakers or 80-125 A and 200 A circuit breakers, or may be any one of a variety of other types.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims priority to Indian Patent Application No. 202341054504 filed in the Indian Patent Office on August 14, 2023, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety. Technical Field

[0003] Example embodiments relate to circuit breakers, and in particular, to printed circuit boards (PCBs) configured to interface with different configurations of plug-in circuit breakers. Background Art

[0004] A circuit breaker is an electrical switch designed to protect an electrical circuit from damage caused by an electrical fault (e.g., overcurrent / overload or short circuit). The basic function of a circuit breaker is to interrupt the flow of current after a fault is detected by a protective relay. Bus bars, which are metal strips used to carry current to and from various electrical components, distribute power from a power source to a circuit breaker. If an electrical fault occurs in a circuit, a circuit breaker located downstream of the electrical fault trips (e.g., turns off or is positioned in an open position), and the faulty section of the bus bar is disconnected from the circuit.

[0005] Various configurations of different types of circuit breakers may be connected via bus bars for direct current (DC) transmission. The circuit breakers may be connected to a printed circuit board (PCB), also referred to in this context as a backplane, to transmit a trip alarm signal to a system controller. However, when the circuit breaker configuration is modified, such as when the number or type of circuit breakers included in the configuration changes, different alarm connections must exist to accommodate the modified circuit breaker configuration.

[0006] In related art designs, the circuit breaker configuration may also be wired to an alarm board that includes alarm diodes connected to the circuit breakers within the configuration, the alarm board acting as an alarm controller and connected to the system controller. In this manner, signals from each of the circuit breakers are routed to the alarm board, and alarm signals are routed from the alarm board to the system controller. Such an arrangement requires metal connections, wiring, and modifications that depend on the specific configuration of the circuit boards within the configuration. Summary of the invention

[0007] Example embodiments may address at least the above problems and / or disadvantages and other disadvantages not described above. Also, example embodiments are not required to overcome the disadvantages described above, and may not overcome any of the problems described above.

[0008] According to one aspect of an example embodiment, a printed circuit board includes: a plurality of edge connectors; a pin connector; a plurality of wires, each of which electrically connects one of the plurality of edge connectors to the pin connector; wherein each of the plurality of edge connectors is positioned on the printed circuit board so that the plurality of edge connectors can be docked with connectors of a plurality of configurations of circuit breakers, the plurality of configurations of circuit breakers including at least: a first configuration including a first type of circuit breaker, and a second configuration including a second type of circuit breaker; wherein the position of the connector on the first type of circuit breaker is different from the position of the connector on the second type of circuit breaker; and wherein the printed circuit board has a thickness of no greater than 1.2 mm.

[0009] The first type of circuit breaker may be a 1-63 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker may be a 80-125 A circuit breaker.

[0010] The first type of circuit breaker may be an 80-125 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker may be a 200A circuit breaker.

[0011] The printed circuit board may further include at least one connector configured to be electrically connected to a DC surge protection device.

[0012] Each of the plurality of edge connectors may be a gold finger connector.

[0013] According to one aspect of another example embodiment, a printed circuit board includes: a plurality of edge connectors, the plurality of edge connectors including at least one single edge connector and a pair of two double edge connectors; a pin connector; a plurality of wires, the plurality of wires including: at least one single wire, the at least one single wire electrically connected between a single edge connector and the pin connector in the plurality of edge connectors, and at least one double wire, the at least one double wire electrically connected between a pair of double edge connectors and at least one pin connector; a plurality of diodes, wherein one of the plurality of diodes is connected to one of the plurality of wires; wherein each of the plurality of edge connectors is positioned on the printed circuit board so that the plurality of edge connectors can be mated with connectors of a plurality of configurations of a circuit breaker, the plurality of configurations of the circuit breaker including at least: a first configuration, the first configuration including a first type of circuit breaker, and a second configuration, the second configuration including a second type of circuit breaker; wherein the position of the connector on the first type of circuit breaker is different from the position of the connector on the second type of circuit breaker; and wherein the printed circuit board has a thickness of no greater than 1.2 mm.

[0014] The first type of circuit breaker may be a 1-63 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker may be a 80-125 A circuit breaker.

[0015] The first type of circuit breaker may be an 80-125 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker may be a 200A circuit breaker.

[0016] The printed circuit board may further include at least one connector configured to be electrically connected to a DC surge protection device.

[0017] Each of the plurality of edge connectors may be a gold finger connector. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0018] The above and / or other aspects will become apparent and more readily understood from the following description of example embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0019] Figure 1 A related art insertion circuit breaker is shown;

[0020] Figure 2 An overlay of different configurations of inserting a circuit breaker is shown;

[0021] Figure 3 is a diagram of a printed circuit board (PCB) configured to interface with a plurality of different configurations of plug-in circuit breakers according to an example embodiment;

[0022] Figure 4 is a schematic diagram of a monitoring system according to an example embodiment;

[0023] Figure 5 shows two PCBs connected together according to an example embodiment;

[0024] Figure 6 shows a PCB configured to interface with a plurality of different configurations of plug-in circuit breakers according to an example embodiment;

[0025] 7A to 7E The invention shows a circuit breaker according to an example embodiment inserted into different combinations Figure 6 Example of a PCB;

[0026] Figure 8 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a controller rack of a direct current power distribution unit (DCDU) according to an example embodiment is shown;

[0027] Fig. 9According to an example implementation Figure 8 Circuit diagram of PCB;

[0028] Fig.10 is a combination of circuit breakers inserted into a controller rack according to an example embodiment Figure 8 A perspective view of the PCB;

[0029] Fig.11 shows a PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a distribution rack according to an example embodiment;

[0030] Fig.12 According to an example implementation Fig.11 Circuit diagram of PCB;

[0031] Fig.13 is a combination of circuit breakers inserted into a distribution rack according to an exemplary embodiment Fig.11 A perspective view of the PCB;

[0032] Fig.14 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a battery fuse unit (BFU) rack is shown according to an example embodiment;

[0033] Fig.15 According to an example implementation Fig.14 Circuit diagram of PCB;

[0034] Fig.16 is a combination of a circuit breaker inserted into a BFU rack according to an example embodiment. Fig.14 A perspective view of the PCB;

[0035] Fig.17 A PCB configured for use in combination with a circuit breaker included in a distribution box is shown according to an example embodiment;

[0036] Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Circuit diagram of PCB;

[0037] Fig.19 A circuit breaker assembly according to an exemplary embodiment that is inserted into a distribution box Fig.17 A perspective view of the PCB;

[0038] Fig. 20 shows a PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers in a battery fuse unit (BFU) box according to an example embodiment;

[0039] Fig.21 According to an example implementation Fig. 20 Circuit diagram of the PCB; and

[0040] Fig. 22 is a circuit breaker inserted into a BFU box according to an example embodiment. Fig. 20 A perspective view of the PCB. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Reference will now be made in detail to example embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings, wherein like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout. In this regard, example embodiments may have different forms and may not be construed as being limited to the descriptions set forth herein.

[0042] It should be understood that when used in this specification, the terms “include,” “including,” “comprise,” and / or “comprising” specify the presence of stated features, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof.

[0043] It will be further understood that although the terms "first", "second", "third", etc. may be used herein to describe various elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections, these elements, components, regions, layers and / or sections may not be limited by these terms. These terms are only used to distinguish one element, component, region, layer or section from another element, component, region, layer or section.

[0044] As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations of one or more of the associated listed items. Expressions such as "at least one of" when preceding a list of elements modify the entire list of elements and do not modify the individual elements of the list.

[0045] Various terms are used to refer to specific system components. Different companies may refer to a component by different names - this document does not attempt to differentiate between components that differ in name but have the same function.

[0046] Matters of these example embodiments that are obvious to one of ordinary skill in the technical field to which these example embodiments pertain may not be repeated here in detail.

[0047] As used herein, unless otherwise indicated, adjectives such as "substantially," "approximately," and "about" modifying a condition or relational characteristic of one or more features should be understood to mean that the condition or characteristic is defined to be within an acceptable tolerance for the operation of the example embodiment of its intended application.

[0048] In addition, it should be understood that the spatial descriptions used herein (e.g., "above," "below," "up," "left," "right," "lower," "top," "bottom," "vertical," "horizontal," etc.) are for illustrative purposes only, and actual implementations of the structures described herein may be spatially arranged in any orientation or manner.

[0049] Example embodiments described herein relate to a printed circuit board (PCB), alternatively referred to herein as a backplane, that is configured to interface with multiple configurations of different types of plug-in circuit breakers without requiring separate PCBs to be configured for different configurations of the circuit breakers. In the related art, different bus bars are required for each different configuration of the circuit breaker, and therefore different PCBs are required. This creates challenges for manufacturers who need to produce different PCBs for each circuit breaker configuration. Additionally, the lack of a universal PCB increases the complexity of installation and maintenance for the end user.

[0050] Also conventionally, the circuit breaker configuration is connected to an alarm board, for example, via a PCB, and from the alarm board to a system controller. Because some circuit breakers include an alarm diode, but others do not, conventionally, the routing of the alarm signal must be specifically considered for each different configuration of the circuit breaker, further increasing the complexity of installation and maintenance.

[0051] One or more example embodiments described herein may provide advantages including simplified manufacturing, reduced production costs, and optimized inventory management. Example embodiments may also provide customers with cost-effective and standardized solutions, making installation easier.

[0052] Figure 1 An example of a plug-in circuit breaker of the related art is shown. A plug-in circuit breaker is a device used in an electrical system to protect circuits from overcurrent and short circuits. Plug-in circuit breakers are designed to be plugged into a distribution panel, distribution board, BFU rack, etc., and are generally modular in nature, allowing for easy installation and replacement without rewiring. It should be understood that the circuit breakers discussed herein are plug-in circuit breakers, although the phrase "plug-in" may be omitted from one or more individual references thereto. For example, Figure 1A view of a 1-63A plug-in circuit breaker 102 is provided, where 1-63A refers to circuit breakers having a current rating of up to 63 amperes (A); an 80-125A plug-in circuit breaker 104, where 80-125A refers to circuit breakers having a current rating of up to 125A; and a 200A plug-in circuit breaker 106, where 125A refers to circuit breakers having a current rating of up to 200A. Thus, the current rating indicates the maximum current that a circuit breaker can handle before tripping or interrupting the flow of current. Figure 1 As shown, the 1-63A circuit breaker 102 is physically smaller than the 80-125A circuit breaker 104, and the 80-125A circuit breaker 104 is physically smaller than the 200A circuit breaker. Figure 1 As shown, the 1-63A circuit breaker 102 includes a connector 105, the 80-125A circuit breaker 104 includes a connector 107, and the 200A circuit breaker includes a connector 109, wherein each of the connectors is disposed in a different position on its corresponding circuit breaker. Specifically, for example, the connector 105 is positioned in a different position relative to the outline of the 1-63A circuit breaker 102 than the position relative to the outline of the 80-125A circuit breaker 104 on which the connector 107 is located. Due to the size differences and different positions of the connectors on the circuit breakers, the connector 105 of the 1-63A circuit breaker, the connector 107 of the 80-125A circuit breaker, and the connector 109 of the 200A circuit breaker will be aligned with different points on the inserted PCB.

[0053] In the description of one or more example embodiments herein, reference is made to a 1-63A plug-in circuit breaker, an 80-125A plug-in circuit breaker, and a 200A circuit breaker. However, it should be understood that these particular types of circuit breakers are merely examples, and the circuit breakers used in conjunction with any one or more of the PCBs according to the exemplary embodiments can be any type of plug-in circuit breaker. Additionally, as will be better understood in light of the following description, the PCBs described herein can be specifically configured such that the position of the edge connector thereon can be determined based on the position of the connector on one or more of any of a plurality of types of circuit breakers to be used in conjunction therewith.

[0054] One or more example embodiments described herein may provide an improved PCB including features that enable the PCB to be universally compatible with any of many different circuit breaker configurations. For example, according to one or more example embodiments, the positioning of multiple edge connectors of the PCB may be adapted to connections to plug-in circuit breakers of different sizes and types. The example PCB described herein may also have a thickness of less than 1.2 mm or a thickness of about 1 mm so that it can be connected in a small slot formed by a combination of plug-in circuit breakers. Such flexibility may allow for easier rearrangement and customization of circuit breaker configurations without the need to change the PCB itself. One or more example embodiments described herein may also provide a PCB including an alarm diode connected to a line connected to multiple edge connectors, thereby effectively incorporating the alarm board into the PCB itself. One or more example embodiments described herein may also provide a PCB including an edge connector to be connected to one or more surge protection devices.

[0055] Figure 2 An overlap of an arrangement of three 1-63A circuit breakers and an arrangement of two 80-125A circuit breakers is shown. Connectors 107 are connectors for two 80-125A circuit breakers, respectively; and connectors 105 are connectors for three 1-63A circuit breakers, respectively. As shown, none of connectors 105 align with any of connectors 107. Thus, Figure 2 Illustrated are, for example, the difficulties associated with aligning fixed contact locations on a single PCB with connectors in any of various combinations of 1-63A circuit breakers and 80-125A circuit breakers.

[0056] One or more example embodiments described herein relate to a PCB including a plurality of connectors configured to interface with connectors of any one of a plurality of combinations of different types of circuit breakers. For example, according to one or more example embodiments, the PCB may include a plurality of edge connectors positioned to interface with connectors of a 1-63A plug-in circuit breaker or a 80-125A plug-in circuit breaker, depending on the combination of circuit breakers into which the PCB is inserted. More specifically, each edge connector of the example PCB may be spaced a distance from an adjacent edge connector and / or spaced from a fixed position on the PCB to thereby accommodate different configurations of plug-in circuit breakers to be attached thereto, such that in each combination, the connector of each constituent circuit breaker will be aligned with one of the plurality of edge connectors of the PCB.

[0057] Figure 3A PCB configured to interface with any of a plurality of different configurations of plug-in circuit breakers is shown in accordance with an example embodiment. Figure 3 As shown, PCB 300 includes a plurality of edge connectors 302, each edge connector 302 being positioned along an edge 304 of PCB 300. The positioning of the plurality of edge connectors 302 can be configured so that connectors of different types of circuit breakers included in each of a plurality of different circuit breaker combinations will be able to dock with one of the edge connectors 302. As discussed above, different types of circuit breakers can have different sizes and / or can include connectors at different locations thereon. For example, depending on the specific combination of connectors of different types of circuit breakers, one or more of the plurality of edge connectors 302 can be spaced relative to each other or relative to a fixed position on PCB 300 so that the PCB can dock with connectors of different types of circuit breakers. Therefore, according to one or more example embodiments, a safe and reliable electrical connection between PCB 300 and any one of a plurality of different combinations of circuit breakers can be ensured regardless of the specific type of circuit breakers included in the combination used. Depending on, for example, the spacing of the edge connectors and whether the PCB is intended to be mounted on a distribution rack or a BFU rack, the PCB 300 can be connected to a configuration of circuit breakers including, but not limited to, 1-63A circuit breakers, 80-125A circuit breakers, and 200A circuit breakers. Of course, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the types of circuit breakers to which the PCB 300 can be connected are not limited to these particular types of circuit breakers, and can be any type of plug-in circuit breaker.

[0058] According to one or more example embodiments, one or more of the plurality of edge connectors 302 may be a gold finger edge connector. As used herein, the term "gold finger" refers to a slightly finger-shaped conductive contact disposed at the edge of a PCB. The gold finger connector is made of a conductive material, which may be or may be plated with gold or other materials, such as but not limited to copper and silver. Such a gold finger connector may be disposed at an edge of a PCB, which edge is disposed at an end or side of the PCB (e.g., edge 304 of PCB 300). The gold finger connector may be configured to dock with a corresponding connector in another device, such as but not limited to an insert into a circuit breaker. The gold finger connector may provide a reliable and durable interface for electrical connection between devices, and achieve smooth transmission of signals or data.

[0059] like Figure 3As shown, PCB 300 also includes a connector line 310 that combines signals from multiple edge connectors 302 into a single connection pin 308. Connection pin 308 can be connected to a monitoring system, for example, an alarm board that can generate an alarm signal when a fault or abnormality is detected in a circuit breaker connected to PCB 300. The arrangement of connector line 310 can replace separate wiring from each circuit breaker. Connection pin 308 can replace a separate collection board that may otherwise be required to route signals from each individual connector 302 to a monitoring system or system controller. Figure 4 A monitoring system 400 according to an example embodiment is discussed. Connector pins 308 may be connected to corresponding connectors on a monitoring system or system controller. For example, when a signal arrives at an alarm board, the signal is processed and interpreted by the alarm board. The alarm board may include any combination of software and hardware components configured to analyze signals from one or more circuit breakers and generate or route appropriate alarm notifications and / or visual indications to a system controller. In this manner, operators of the electrical system can quickly identify and resolve any potential problems.

[0060] Figure 4A monitoring system 400 according to an example embodiment is shown. The monitoring system 400 can be electrically coupled to each of the plurality of edge connectors 302, and thereby configured to detect the state of any circuit breaker connected to the PCB 300 via one of the plurality of edge connectors 302. For example, the monitoring system 400 can be connected to the plurality of edge connectors 302 via the connection pins 308. The monitoring system 400 can be configured to determine the state of any circuit breaker connected to one of the plurality of edge connectors 302 of the PCB 300, such as whether any such circuit breaker is tripped or operable. The monitoring system 400 includes one or more sensors 402, a processor 404, a memory 406, and a communication device 408. For example, the one or more sensors 402 sense a signal received from the connection pins 308. The signal can include, for example, a current. The processor 404 can receive a signal corresponding to the sensed circuit breaker from the one or more sensors 402, and can thereby determine the state of the sensed circuit breaker. The memory 406 may include instructions that, when executed by the processor 404, cause the processor 404 to: receive a signal corresponding to a sensed circuit breaker from one or more sensors 402; determine a state of the corresponding circuit breaker based on the signal; and output an alarm indicating the state via the communication device 408. For example, according to one or more example embodiments, the communication device 408 may be controlled to issue an alarm indicating that one or more of the circuit breakers connected to the PCB 300 has a "tripped" state. Alternatively, the communication device may output a signal to a system controller.

[0061] According to one or more example embodiments, the connection pins of one PCB may be positioned so that they can be connected to the connection pins of another PCB. Figure 5 Shown is an arrangement in which a PCB 350a including a connection pin 358a and a PCB 350b including a connection pin 358b are connected via their corresponding connection pins 358a and connection pins 358b. According to one or more example embodiments, PCB 350 and PCB 350b can be connected to an external unit, such as a monitoring system 400 and a system controller. In this case, each of the connection pins 358a and the connection pins 358b can be connected to the external unit individually, or both PCB 350a and PCB 350b can be connected to the external unit via a single connection pin in the connection pins 358a and the connection pins 358b, because the connection pins 358a and the connection pins 358b are also connected to each other.

[0062] Figure 6A PCB is shown according to an example embodiment, the PCB being configured for use in conjunction with an arrangement of circuit breakers in any of a plurality of configurations of different circuit breakers. Figure 6 As shown, PCB 200 includes five edge connectors 202-1, 202-2, 202-3, 202-4 and 202-5. As discussed above, the edge connectors of PCB 200 can be gold finger connectors. Edge connector 202 is positioned so that PCB 200 can be connected to any combination of multiple different combinations of circuit breakers. PCB 200 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including one or more 1-63A circuit breakers, one or more 80-125A circuit breakers and / or one or more 200A circuit breakers. Of course, the types of circuit breakers to which PCB 200 can be connected are not limited to these specific types of circuit breakers.

[0063] Fig. 7A A circuit breaker assembly is shown according to an example embodiment. Figure 6 The first example of a PCB. Fig. 7A As shown, PCB 200 is inserted into a slot formed by three 80-125A circuit breakers 250, where circuit breaker 250a is connected to edge connector 202-1, circuit breaker 250b is connected to edge connector 202-3, and circuit breaker 250c is connected to edge connector 202-5.

[0064] Figure 7B A circuit breaker assembly is shown according to an example embodiment. Figure 6 The second example of a PCB. Figure 7B As shown, PCB 200 is inserted into a slot formed by two 80-125A circuit breakers 250 and one 1-63A circuit breaker 260, wherein circuit breaker 250a is connected to edge connector 202-1, circuit breaker 250b is connected to edge connector 202-3, and circuit breaker 260 is connected to edge connector 202-5.

[0065] Figure 7C A circuit breaker assembly is shown according to an example embodiment. Figure 6 The third example of PCB. Figure 7C As shown, PCB 200 is inserted into a slot formed by four 1-63A circuit breakers 260, wherein circuit breaker 260a is connected to edge connector 202-1, circuit breaker 260b is connected to edge connector 202-2, circuit breaker 260c is connected to edge connector 202-4, and circuit breaker 260d is connected to edge connector 202-5.

[0066] Fig.7D A circuit breaker assembly is shown according to an example embodiment. Figure 6 The fourth example of PCB. Fig.7D As shown, PCB 200 is inserted into a slot formed by a 200A circuit breaker, wherein circuit breaker 270 is connected to edge connector 202-2.

[0067] Fig. 7E A circuit breaker assembly is shown according to an example embodiment. Figure 6 The fifth example of PCB. Fig. 7E As shown, PCB 200 is inserted into a slot formed by two 1-63A circuit breakers 270 and one 80-125A circuit breaker 250, wherein circuit breaker 260a is connected to edge connector 202-1, circuit breaker 250 is connected to edge connector 202-3, and circuit breaker 260b is connected to edge connector 202-5.

[0068] Figure 8 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a controller rack of a direct current power distribution unit (DCDU) is shown according to an example embodiment. Fig. 9 According to an example implementation Figure 8 Circuit diagram of the PCB. Fig.10 is a combination of circuit breakers inserted into a controller rack according to an example embodiment Figure 8 A perspective view of the PCB. Figure 8 and Fig. 9As shown, PCB 500 includes 12 edge connectors 502-1 to 502-10 electrically connected to 10 connector lines 503-1 to 503-10. As shown, each of line 503-5 and line 503-8 is connected to a pair of adjacent edge connectors-line 503-5 is connected to edge connectors 502-5a and 502-5b, and line 503-8 is connected to edge connectors 502-8a and 5028b. PCB 500 also includes an edge connector 505 configured to be connected to a direct current surge protection device (DC-SPD), 10 1A alarm diodes 506, a pin connector 507, a first alarm pin 508 to be connected to a system controller, a second alarm pin 509 to be connected to the system controller, an opening 510 for mounting screws, and a resistor 511. Edge connector 505 is not connected to any diode. Instead, as discussed above, the edge connector, which can be a gold finger, is connected to the internal NC ("normal connection") switch of the SPD, and the alarm signal from the SPD is routed to the pin connector 507, which in turn is to be connected to the system controller. Each of the 10 1A alarm diodes is connected to the DC load side via their anodes via one of the alarm pins 508 and 509.

[0069] The edge connectors 502-1 to 502-10 on the PCB 500 are positioned so that the PCB 500 can be connected to any of a plurality of different combinations of circuit breakers. According to one aspect, the PCB 500 can have example dimensions, including: a depth of about 35 mm to 40 mm (or, for example, 38 mm) from the edge where the connectors are aligned to the opposite edge; a length of about 245 mm to 249 mm (or, for example, 246.77 mm); Figure 8 The center of the leftmost) connector 505 to ( Figure 8 The spacing between the centers of the connectors 505 (rightmost in FIG. 1 ) is about 7 mm to 10 mm (or, for example, 8.06 mm); Figure 8The spacing from the center of connector 505 (the rightmost connector) to C502-1 is about 21mm to 25mm (or, for example, 23.01mm); the spacing from C502-1 to C502-2 is about 21mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.62mm); the spacing from C502-2 to C502-3 is about 21mm to 25mm (or, for example, 24.05mm); the spacing from C502-3 to C502-4 is about 21mm to 25mm (or, for example, 21.06mm); the spacing from C502-4 to C502-5a is about 12mm to 14mm (or, for example, 12.87mm); the spacing from C502-5a to C502-5b is about 9mm to 11mm (or, for example, 10.01mm m); the spacing between C502-5b to C502-6 is about 21mm to 25mm (or, for example, 24.18mm); the spacing between C502-6 to C502-7 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 20.8mm); the spacing between C502-7 to C502-8a is about 12mm to 15mm (or, for example, 13.78mm); the spacing between C502-8a to C502-8b is about 7mm to 10mm (or, for example, 8.84mm); the spacing between C502-8b to C502-9 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.73mm); and the spacing between C502-9 to C502-10 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.38mm). In this case, the abbreviation C502-n refers to the center of the edge connector numbered 502-n.

[0070] According to a first example, PCB 500 may be inserted into a slot formed in a circuit breaker combination including 101-63A circuit breakers, wherein each of the 10 1-63A circuit breakers is connected to a corresponding one of edge connectors 502-1, 502-2, 502-3, 502-4, 502-5a, 502-6, 502-7, 502-8a, 502-9, and 502-10. According to a second example, PCB 500 may be inserted into a slot formed in a circuit breaker combination including four 80-125A circuit breakers and six 1-63A circuit breakers. Any one or more of the edge connectors may be connected to the 1-63A circuit breaker, and any one of the edge connectors 502-3, 502-5a, 502-5b, 502-7, 502-8a, and 502-8b may be connected to the 80-125A circuit breaker. According to any of these examples, PCB 500 can also be connected to the DC-SPD via edge connector 505. Additionally, since PCB 500 includes an alarm diode 506 connected to each line 503 and thus to each of edge connectors 502, there is no need for the PCB to be further connected to a collection board or alarm board, and PCB 500 can be directly connected to the system controller via alarm pins 508 and 509. Therefore, for many different combinations of circuit boards, PCB 500 enables a single 1 millimeter (mm) backplane to collect alarm signals from each connected circuit breaker and direct them to the system controller. Of course, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the types of circuit breakers to which PCB 500 can be connected are not limited to 80-125A and 1-63A circuit breakers. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, PCB 500 can also be connected to one or more 200A circuit breakers, or any other type of plug-in circuit breaker. As discussed above, the edge connector of PCB 500 can be a gold finger connector.

[0071] Fig.11 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a DCDU rack is shown according to an example embodiment. Fig.12 yes Fig.11 Circuit diagram of the PCB. Fig.13 is a combination of circuit breakers inserted into a DCDU rack according to an exemplary embodiment. Fig.11 A perspective view of the PCB. Fig.11 and Fig.12As shown, PCB 600 includes 20 connectors 602-1 to 602-18 electrically connected to 18 connector lines 603-1 to 603-18. As shown, each of line 603-5 and line 603-12 is connected to a pair of adjacent connectors-line 603-5 is connected to connectors 602-5a and 602-5b, and line 603-12 is connected to connectors 602-12a and 603-12b. PCB 600 also includes a first alarm pin 608 to be connected to a system controller, a second alarm pin 609 to be connected to the system controller, an opening 610 for mounting screws, and a resistor 611. As discussed above, the edge connectors of PCB 600 can be gold finger connectors.

[0072] Connectors 602-1 to 602-18 on PCB 600 are positioned so that the PCB can be connected to any of a plurality of different combinations of circuit breakers. According to one aspect, PCB 600 can have example dimensions, including: a depth of about 35 mm to 40 mm (or, for example, 37.05 mm); a length of about 400 mm to 410 mm (or, for example, 403.83 mm); a spacing of about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.88 mm) between C602-1 and C602-2; a spacing of about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 23.92 mm) between C602-2 and C602-3; a spacing of about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 21.19 mm) between C602-3 and C602-4; a spacing of about 11 mm to 16 mm between C602-4 and C602-5a; and a spacing of about 11 mm to 16 mm between C602-5a and C602-6. 14mm (or, for example, 12.48mm); the spacing between C602-5a and C602-5b is about 8mm to 11mm (or, for example, 9.88mm); the spacing between C602-5b and C602-6 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.49mm); the spacing between C-602-6 and C602-7 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 23.01mm); the spacing between C602-7 and C602-8 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.62mm); the spacing between C602-8 and C602-9 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22. 36mm); the spacing between C602-9 and C602-10 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 24.18mm); the spacing between C602-10 and C602-11 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 21.32mm); the spacing between C602-11 and C602-12a is about 11mm to 14mm (or, for example, 12.79mm); the spacing between C602-12a and C602-12b is about 8mm to 11mm (or, for example, 9.62mm); the spacing between C602-12b and C602-13 is about 20mm to 25mm (or, for example, 22.62mm m); the spacing between C602-13 and C602-14 is about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.62 mm); the spacing between C602-14 and C602-15 is about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.49 mm); the spacing between C602-15 and C602-16 is about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.62 mm); the spacing between C602-16 and C602-17 is about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.75 mm); and the spacing between C602-17 and C602-18 is about 20 mm to 25 mm (or, for example, 22.49 mm). In this case, the abbreviation C602-n refers to the center of the edge connector numbered 602-n.

[0073] PCB 600 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including 1-63A circuit breakers and / or 80-125A circuit breakers. According to a first example, PCB 600 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including 18 1-63A circuit breakers, wherein each of the 18 1-63A circuit breakers is connected to one of connectors 602-1, 602-2, 602-3, 602-4, 602-5a, 602-6, 602-7, 602-8, 602-9, 602-10, 602-11, 602-12a, 602-13, 602-14, 602-15, 602-16, 602-17, and 602-18. According to another example, PCB 600 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including four 80-125A circuit breakers, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 602-3, 602-5a, 602-10, and 602-12a. In this example, additionally, 12 1-63A circuit breakers can be simultaneously connected to PCB 600, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 602-1, 602-2, 602-6, 602-7, 602-8, 602-9, 602-13, 602-14, 602-15, 602-16, 602-17, and 602-18. Of course, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the types of circuit breakers to which PCB 600 can be connected are not limited to 80-125A and 1-63A circuit breakers. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, PCB 500 may be connected to one or more 200A circuit breakers, or any other type of plug-in circuit breaker.

[0074] Additionally, since PCB 600 includes an alarm diode 606 connected to each line 603 and thus to each of the edge connectors 602, no further connection of the PCB to an alarm board is required, and PCB 600 can be directly connected to the system controller via alarm pins 608 and 609. For example, Fig.12 As shown, PCB 600 includes two separate sets of edge connectors and diodes: a first set includes edge connectors 602-1 to 602-9 and a diode 606 attached thereto and a first alarm pin 608, and a second set includes edge connectors 602-10 to 602-18 and a diode attached thereto and a second alarm pin 609. Thus, as described above, for example, Figure 5As discussed, PCB 600 enables two sets of circuit breakers to be connected to a single PCB as an alternative to two separate PCBs attached together. Thus, for many different combinations of circuit boards, PCB 600 enables a single 1 mm backplane to collect alarm signals from each connected circuit breaker and direct them to the system controller.

[0075] Fig.14 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included on a BFU rack is shown according to an example embodiment. Fig.15 According to an example implementation Fig.14 Circuit diagram of the PCB. Fig.16 is a combination of a circuit breaker inserted into a BFU rack according to an example embodiment. Fig.14 A perspective view of the PCB. Fig.14 and Fig.15 As shown, PCB 700 includes eight edge connectors 702-1 to 702-6 connected to six connector lines 703-1 to 703-6. As shown, each of line 703-3 and line 703-5 is connected to a pair of adjacent edge connectors - line 703-3 is connected to edge connectors 702-3a and 702-3b, and line 703-5 is connected to edge connectors 702-5a and 702-5b. The PCB also includes a first pin 708 and a second pin 709, each to be connected to a system controller. As discussed above, the edge connectors of PCB 700 can be gold finger connectors. Figures 11 to 13 As with the example embodiments discussed above, PCB 700 also includes two separate sets of edge connectors: a first set includes edge connectors 702-1, 702-2a, 702-2b, 702-5a, and 702-5b and first pins 708 connected thereto, and a second set includes edge connectors 702-2, 702-4, and 702-6 and second pins 709 connected thereto. Additionally, according to this example embodiment, PCB 700 does not include any diodes, and a system controller connected to first pins 708 and second pins 709 can determine the difference between the system voltage and the battery voltage to create an alarm as needed if one or more of the circuit breakers attached thereto are tripped.

[0076] Edge connectors 702-1 to 702-6 are positioned to enable PCB 700 to be connected to any of a plurality of different combinations of battery circuit breakers. According to one aspect, PCB 700 can have example dimensions, including: a depth of about 26 mm to 30 mm (or, for example, 28.3 mm); a length of about 270 mm to 285 mm (or, for example, 272.05 mm); a spacing of about 45 mm to 49 mm (or, for example, 47.97 mm) between C702-1 and C702-2; a spacing of about 45 mm to 49 mm (or, for example, 47.84 mm) between C702-2 and C702-3a; a spacing of about 4 mm to 7 mm between C702-3a and C702-3b; m (or, for example, 5.95 mm); the spacing between C702-3b and C702-4 is about 45 mm to 49 mm (or, for example, 45.01 mm); the spacing between C702-4 and C702-5a is about 45 mm to 49 mm (or, for example, 47.84 mm); the spacing between C702-5a and C702-5b is about 4 mm to 7 mm (or, for example, 5.82 mm); and the spacing between C702-5b and C702-6 is about 45 mm to 49 mm (or, for example, 45.4 mm). In this case, the abbreviation C702-n refers to the center of the edge connector numbered 702-n.

[0077] According to a first example, PCB 700 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including six 80-125A circuit breakers, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 702-1, 702-2, 702-3a, 702-4, 702-5a, and 702-6. According to a second example, PCB can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including three 200A battery circuit breakers, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 702-1, 702-3a, and 702-5a. Of course, as will be understood by those skilled in the art, the types of circuit breakers to which PCB 500 can be connected are not limited to 80-125A, 1-63A, and 200A circuit breakers. As will be understood by those skilled in the art, PCB 500 can also be connected to one or more of any other types of plug-in circuit breakers.

[0078] Additionally, since PCB 700 can be connected to the system controller via pins 508 and pins 509. PCB 500 thus enables a single 1 mm backplane to connect to each circuit breaker and route them to the system controller for many different combinations of circuit boards.

[0079] Fig.17A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers included in a DCDU box is shown according to an example embodiment. Fig.18 yes Fig.17 Circuit diagram of the PCB. Fig.19 is a combination of circuit breakers inserted into a DCDU box according to an example embodiment Fig.17 A perspective view of the PCB. Fig.17 and Fig.18 As shown, PCB 800 includes six edge connectors 802-1 to 802-4 electrically connected to four connector lines 803-1 to 803-4. As shown, each of line 803-2 and line 803-4 is connected to a pair of adjacent edge connectors-line 803-2 is connected to edge connectors 802-2a and 802-2b, and line 803-4 is connected to edge connectors 802-4a and 802-4b. The PCB also includes a 1A alarm diode 806 connected to each of lines 803-1 to 803-4, a resistor 811, and a pin 809 to be connected to a system controller. As discussed above, the edge connectors of PCB 800 can be gold finger connectors.

[0080] Edge connectors 802-1 through 802-4 are positioned to enable PCB 800 to be connected to any number of different combinations of circuit breakers. According to one aspect, PCB 800 can have example dimensions including: a depth of approximately 21 mm to 24 mm (or, for example, 22.05 mm); a length of approximately 95 mm to 100 mm (or, for example, 97.65 mm); a spacing of approximately 22 mm to 26 mm (or, for example, 24.31 mm) between C802-1 and C802-2a; a spacing of approximately 9 mm to 12 mm (or, for example, 10.66 mm) between C802-2a and C802-2b; a spacing of approximately 13 mm to 16 mm (or, for example, 14.95 mm) between C802-2b and C802-3; a spacing of approximately 17 mm to 20 mm (or, for example, 18.7 mm) between C802-3 and C802-4a; and a spacing of approximately 5 mm to 8 mm (or, for example, 6.89 mm) between C802-4a and C802-4b. In this case, the abbreviation C802-n refers to the center of the edge connector numbered 802-n.

[0081] According to a first example, PCB 800 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including four 1-63A circuit breakers, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 802-1, 802-2a, 802-3, and 802-4a. According to another example, PCB 800 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including three 80-125A circuit breakers, each of which is connected to one of edge connectors 802-1, 802-2b, and 802-4b. Of course, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, the types of circuit breakers to which PCB 800 can be connected are not limited to 80-125A and 1-63A circuit breakers. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, PCB 800 can also be connected to one or more 200A circuit breakers, or any other type of plug-in circuit breaker.

[0082] Additionally, because PCB 800 includes an alarm diode 806 connected to each line 803 and therefore to each of the edge connectors 802, there is no need for PCB 800 to be further connected to the alarm board, and PCB 800 can be directly connected to the system controller via pins 809. Thus, PCB 800 enables a single 1 mm thick backplane to collect alarm signals from each connected circuit breaker and direct them to the system controller for many different combinations of circuit boards.

[0083] Fig. 20 A PCB configured for use in conjunction with a combination of circuit breakers in a battery fuse unit (BFU) box is shown according to an example embodiment. Fig.21 yes Fig. 20 Circuit diagram of the PCB. Fig. 22 is a circuit breaker inserted into a BFU box according to an example embodiment. Fig. 20 A perspective view of the PCB. Fig. 20 and Fig.21 As shown, PCB 900 includes four edge connectors 902-1 to 902-3 electrically connected to three connector lines 903-1 to 903-3. As shown, connector line 903-1 is connected to a pair of adjacent edge connectors 902-1a and 902-1b. The PCB also includes pins 909 to be connected to the system controller. As discussed above, the edge connectors of PCB 900 can be gold finger connectors.

[0084] Edge connector 902 is positioned on PCB 900 to enable the PCB to be connected to any of a plurality of different combinations of circuit breakers. According to one aspect, PCB 900 can have example dimensions including: a depth of about 20 mm to 24 mm (or, for example, 22.0 mm or 22.5 mm); a length of about 95 mm to 100 mm (or, for example, 97.65 mm); a spacing of about 30 mm to 33 mm (or, for example, 31.59 mm) from C902-1a to C902-2; a spacing of about 5 mm to 9 mm (or, for example, 6.73 mm) from C902-2 to C902-1b; and a spacing of about 25 mm to 29 mm (or, for example, 27.46 mm) from C902-1b to C902-3. In this case, the abbreviation C902-n refers to the center of the edge connector numbered 902-n.

[0085] PCB 900 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including a 200A battery circuit breaker and / or an 80-125A battery circuit breaker. According to a first example, PCB 900 can be inserted into a single 200A battery circuit breaker, wherein the circuit breaker is connected to edge connector 902-1b. According to another example embodiment, PCB 900 can be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including three 80-125A circuit breakers, wherein each of the three circuit breakers is connected to one of edge connectors 902-1, 902-2b and 902-3. Of course, the type of circuit breakers to which PCB 900 can be connected is not limited to 80-125A, 1-63A and 200A circuit breakers. As will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, PCB 900 can also be connected to one or more of any other type of plug-in circuit breakers. Thus, PCB 900 enables a single 1mm backplane to be connected to each connected circuit breaker as well as a system controller. According to this example embodiment, also as described above with respect to Figures 11 to 13 As discussed above, PCB 900 provides a connection between the circuit breakers attached thereto and the system controller so that the system controller itself can determine the difference between the system voltage and the battery voltage to create an alarm as needed in the event that one or more of the circuit breakers attached thereto are tripped.

[0086] According to one or more example embodiments, a PCB is provided, the PCB including a plurality of edge connectors disposed on the PCB so that the PCB is configured to be inserted into a circuit breaker combination including one or more circuit breakers of any of a plurality of different types. The PCB may additionally include a wire connector connecting each of the edge connectors to one or more pin connectors, and may include a diode disposed on the wire connector between each of the plurality of edge connectors and the one or more pin connectors, thereby eliminating the need for a separate alarm board and enabling the alarm signal to be routed directly from the PCB to the system controller. The PCB according to one or more example embodiments may have a thickness of about 1 mm. The PCB according to one or more example embodiments may also include one or more connectors so that the PCB can be directly connected to one or more surge protection devices.

[0087] It is to be understood that the example embodiments described herein may be considered in a descriptive sense only and not for purposes of limitation. Descriptions of features or aspects within each example embodiment may be considered available for other similar features or aspects in other example embodiments.

[0088] Although example embodiments have been described with reference to the accompanying drawings, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes in form and details may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope defined by the following claims.

Claims

1. A printed circuit board, comprising: Multiple edge connectors; Pin connector; a plurality of wires, each wire electrically connecting one of the plurality of edge connectors to the pin connector; wherein each of the plurality of edge connectors is positioned on the printed circuit board so that the plurality of edge connectors can interface with connectors of a plurality of configurations of a circuit breaker, the plurality of configurations of the circuit breaker comprising at least: a first configuration, the first configuration comprising a first type of circuit breaker, and a second configuration, the second configuration comprising a second type of circuit breaker; wherein the location of the connector on the first type of circuit breaker is different from the location of the connector on the second type of circuit breaker; and Wherein, the printed circuit board has a thickness not greater than 1.2 mm.

2. The printed circuit board according to claim 1, wherein: The first type of circuit breaker is a 1-63 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker is a 80-125A circuit breaker.

3. The printed circuit board according to claim 1, in, The first type of circuit breaker is a 80-125 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker is a 200A circuit breaker.

4. The printed circuit board according to claim 1, further comprising: At least one connector is configured to be electrically connected to a DC surge protection device.

5. The printed circuit board according to claim 1, wherein Each of the plurality of edge connectors includes a gold finger connector.

6. A printed circuit board, comprising: a plurality of edge connectors, the plurality of edge connectors comprising at least one single edge connector and a pair of two dual edge connectors; Pin connector; A plurality of electrical wires, the plurality of electrical wires comprising: at least one separate wire electrically connected between a single edge connector of the plurality of edge connectors and the pin connector, and at least one dual electrical wire electrically connected between the pair of dual edge connectors and the at least one pin connector; a plurality of diodes, wherein one of the plurality of diodes is connected to one of the plurality of wires; wherein each of the plurality of edge connectors is positioned on the printed circuit board so that the plurality of edge connectors can interface with connectors of a plurality of configurations of a circuit breaker, the plurality of configurations of the circuit breaker comprising at least: a first configuration, the first configuration comprising a first type of circuit breaker, and a second configuration, the second configuration comprising a second type of circuit breaker; wherein the location of the connector on the first type of circuit breaker is different from the location of the connector on the second type of circuit breaker; and Wherein, the printed circuit board has a thickness not greater than 1.2 mm.

7. The printed circuit board according to claim 6, wherein: The first type of circuit breaker is a 1-63 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker is a 80-125 A circuit breaker.

8. The printed circuit board according to claim 6, in, The first type of circuit breaker is a 80-125 ampere (A) circuit breaker, and the second type of circuit breaker is a 200A circuit breaker.

9. The printed circuit board according to claim 6, further comprising: At least one connector is configured to be electrically connected to a DC surge protection device.

10. The printed circuit board according to claim 6, wherein: Each of the plurality of edge connectors includes a gold finger connector.

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