Circuit breaking system

Abstract

The invention provides a circuit breaking system. The control system (800) is a control system that controls the circuit breaker (910). The circuit breaker (910) is activated by a starting current flowing through the auxiliary circuit (920) and having a current value equal to or greater than a preset value, and cuts off the main circuit (930). A control system (800) is provided with a drive unit (2) and a driven unit (1). The drive unit (2) includes an intermediate circuit (210) connected to the main circuit (930). The driven unit (1) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). When an abnormal current having a current value equal to or greater than a predetermined value flows through the intermediate circuit (210), the drive unit (2) uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210) as a drive source for driving the drive unit (2). The driven unit (1) is driven by the drive unit (2), thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit (920).

Description

[0001] This application is a divisional application of a patent application for an invention named "Control System and Circuit Breaker System" with an application number of 201980047978.4, a filing date of July 19, 2019. Technical Field

[0002] The present disclosure generally relates to a control system and a circuit breaker system, and more particularly, to a control system for controlling a circuit breaker for cutting off an electric circuit and a circuit breaker system including the control system. Background Art

[0003] A conduction cut-off device is disclosed in Patent Document 1. The conduction cut-off device of Patent Document 1 is applied to an electric circuit. The electric circuit includes a storage battery and an electric device as devices constituting the electric circuit. In this electric circuit, the electric device operates by power supply from the storage battery. The conduction cut-off device of Patent Document 1 cuts off the conduction between the devices constituting the electric circuit by cutting a conductor.

[0004] The above electric circuit is mounted on a vehicle. The conduction cut-off device is used to cut off the conduction between the devices constituting the electric circuit, for example, between the storage battery and the electric device, when a vehicle collision occurs. A collision sensor for detecting whether the collision has occurred and an electronic control unit to which a signal from the collision sensor is input are installed in the vehicle. When the electronic control unit detects a vehicle collision based on the output signal of the collision sensor, the conduction cut-off device is operated. By operating the conduction cut-off device, the power supply from the storage battery to the electric device is cut off.

[0005] In the electric circuit of Patent Document 1, the electronic control unit detects a vehicle collision based on the output signal of the collision sensor and operates the conduction cut-off device. Therefore, in the electric circuit of Patent Document 1, a time for the electronic control unit to determine the collision is required, and the operation of the conduction cut-off device may be delayed.

[0006] Prior Art Documents

[0007] Patent Documents

[0008] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2017-54774 Summary of the Invention

[0009] The present disclosure has been made in view of the above circumstances, and an object thereof is to provide a control system and a circuit breaker system capable of shortening the time until a circuit breaker starts to operate.

[0010] Solutions to Solve the Problems

[0011] A control system according to one aspect of the present disclosure is a control system for controlling a circuit breaker. The circuit breaker is activated by a starting current flowing through an auxiliary circuit and having a current value equal to or greater than a preset value, and cuts off the main circuit. The control system includes a driving unit and a driven unit. The driving unit includes an intermediate circuit connected to the main circuit. The driven unit is connected to the auxiliary circuit. When an abnormal current having a current value equal to or greater than a specified value flows through the intermediate circuit, the driving unit uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit as a driving source for driving the driven unit. The driven unit is driven by the driving unit, thereby supplying the starting current to the auxiliary circuit.

[0012] A circuit breaker system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the control system and the circuit breaker. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0013] Figure 1 It is a structural diagram of a circuit breaker system including the control system of Embodiment 1.

[0014] Figure 2 It is a structural diagram for explaining a power supply system and a vehicle including the above-described circuit breaker system.

[0015] Figure 3 It is a structural diagram showing a state before the operation of a switch system in the above-described control system.

[0016] Figure 4 It is a structural diagram showing a state after the operation of the above-described switch system.

[0017] Figure 5 A of is a structural diagram showing a state before the operation of a switch system in a control system according to a first modification of Embodiment 1. Figure 5 B of is the above-described switch system from the direction orthogonal to Figure 5 A of.

[0018] Figure 6 A of is a structural diagram showing a state after the operation of the above-described switch system. Figure 6 B of is the above-described switch system from the direction orthogonal to Figure 6 A of.

[0019] Figure 7 It is a structural diagram showing a state before the operation of a switch system in a control system according to a second modification of Embodiment 1.

[0020] Figure 8 It is a structural diagram showing a state after the operation of the above-described switch system.

[0021] Figure 9It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state when the exciting coil is not energized in the electromagnetic relay used in the switching system in the control system of the third modification of Embodiment 1.

[0022] Figure 10 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state when the exciting coil is energized in the above electromagnetic relay.

[0023] Figure 11 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state when an abnormal current flows through the movable contact when the exciting coil is energized in the above electromagnetic relay.

[0024] Figure 12 It is a structural diagram of the disconnection system having the control system of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0025] Figure 13 A of is a diagram showing the flow of the operation of the control system of Embodiment 1. Figure 13 B of is a diagram showing the flow of the operation of the control system of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0026] Figure 14 It is a structural diagram showing the state before the operation of an example of the drive unit and the contact device in the above control system.

[0027] Figure 15 It is a structural diagram showing the state after the operation of the above drive unit and contact device.

[0028] Figure 16 A of is a structural diagram showing the state before the operation of another example of the drive unit and the contact device in the above control system. Figure 16 B of is the above drive unit and contact device from Figure 16 A structural diagram when viewed from a direction orthogonal to A of.

[0029] Figure 17 A of is a structural diagram showing the state after the operation of the above drive unit and contact device. Figure 17 B of is the above drive unit and contact device from Figure 17 A structural diagram when viewed from a direction orthogonal to A of.

[0030] Figure 18 It is a structural diagram showing the state before the operation of yet another example of the drive unit and the contact device in the above control system.

[0031] Figure 19 It is a structural diagram showing the state after the operation of the above drive unit and contact device.

[0032] Figure 20 It is a schematic cross-sectional view showing the state when the exciting coil is energized in the electromagnetic relay used in the above control system.

[0033] Figure 21 It is a structural diagram of a switch system in the control system of the fifth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0034] Figure 22 It is a structural diagram of a switch system in the control system of the sixth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0035] Figure 23 It is a structural diagram of a switch system in the control system of the seventh modification of Embodiment 1.

[0036] Figure 24 It is a structural diagram of a switch system in the control system of the eighth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0037] Figure 25 It is a structural diagram of a switch system in the control system of the ninth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0038] Figure 26 It is a structural diagram of other states of the above switch system.

[0039] Figure 27 It is a structural diagram of yet another other state of the above switch system.

[0040] Figure 28 It is a structural diagram of a drive unit and a contact device used in other examples of the above control system.

[0041] Figure 29 It is a structural diagram of the disconnection system of the tenth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0042] Figure 30 It is a structural diagram of the disconnection system of the eleventh modification of Embodiment 1.

[0043] Figure 31 It is a structural diagram of the control system of the twelfth modification of Embodiment 1.

[0044] Figure 32 It is a structural diagram of a disconnection system equipped with the control system of Embodiment 2.

[0045] Figure 33 It is a structural diagram of the above control system.

[0046] Figure 34 It is a structural diagram of the control system of the first modification of Embodiment 2.

[0047] Figure 35 A of Figure 35 B of is a structural diagram of the control system of the second modification of Embodiment 2.

[0048] Figure 36It is a structural diagram of the control system according to the third modification of Embodiment 2.

[0049] Figure 37 It is a structural diagram of the circuit breaker system equipped with the control system of Embodiment 3.

[0050] Figure 38 It is a structural diagram of a modification of the above circuit breaker system.

[0051] Figure 39 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker used in the circuit breaker system equipped with the control system of Embodiment 4.

[0052] Figure 40 It is a schematic cross-sectional view of the circuit breaker of the above modification. Specific Embodiments

[0053] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments and modifications, and various changes can be made according to design and the like as long as it does not deviate from the scope of the technical idea involved in the present disclosure.

[0054] (1) Embodiment 1

[0055] (1.1) Summary

[0056] Refer to Figures 1 to 4 to describe the control system 800 and the circuit breaker system 900 of this embodiment.

[0057] As Figure 1 shown, the circuit breaker system 900 of this embodiment includes a control system 800 and a circuit breaker 910. The circuit breaker 910 is activated by a starting current (a current whose value is equal to or greater than a preset value) to cut off the main circuit 930. The starting current is a current that flows through the auxiliary circuit 920 and whose value is equal to or greater than a preset value.

[0058] The control system 800 controls the circuit breaker 910. The control system 800 includes a driven part 1 and a driving part 2. The driven part 1 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The driving part 2 includes an intermediate circuit 210 connected to the main circuit 930. The intermediate circuit 210 forms a part of the main circuit 930. The driven part 1 is driven by the driving part 2. In addition, in Figure 1 the driven part 1 is illustrated as a normally open contact.

[0059] As Figure 1As shown, the control system 800 (specifically, the driven part 1) is connected to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920. In addition, the control system 800 (specifically, the driving part 2) is connected to the circuit breaker 910 via the main circuit 930. In the control system 800, when an abnormal current (a current with a current value equal to or greater than a specified value) flows through the main circuit 930, this abnormal current flows into the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2. In the control system 800, the driving part 2 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a driving source to drive the driven part 1. The driven part 1 is driven by the driving part 2, thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920. Thereby, the circuit breaker 910 is activated to cut off the main circuit 930. In addition, when the driven part 1 is not driven by the driving part 2, the starting current is not supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0060] The abnormal current is, for example, an overcurrent, a short-circuit current, etc. that flow through the main circuit 930 due to a short circuit of equipment constituting the main circuit 930 when an accident occurs in the vehicle 300 equipped with the breaking system 900.

[0061] More specifically, as Figure 1 shown, the control system 800 of the present embodiment includes a switching system 100 and a current supply source 150.

[0062] The current supply source 150 is a power source for supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920 and is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. In addition, the current supply source 150 may not be included in the components of the control system 800.

[0063] The switching system 100 includes the above-mentioned driven part 1 and driving part 2. The switching system 100 (specifically, the driven part 1) is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The switching system 100 (specifically, the driving part 2) is connected to the main circuit 930. The switching system 100 uses the abnormal current (the abnormal current flowing through the main circuit 930) flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 as a driving source to operate. That is, in the switching system 100, the magnetic field or heat generated by the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 is subjected to energy conversion so as to mechanically drive the driven part 1. By the operation of the driving part 2, the control system 800 supplies a starting current from the current supply source 150 to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920. On the other hand, in the switching system 100, when no abnormal current (no current flows, or the current value is less than the above-mentioned specified value) flows through the main circuit 930, the driving part 2 is not driven, and thus no starting current (a current with a current value equal to or greater than a preset value) is supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920. The specific structure of the switching system 100 will be described later.

[0064] As described above, the control system 800 of the present embodiment operates when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930 to supply a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920 (the starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150). When the starting current is supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920, the circuit breaker 910 cuts off the main circuit 930. That is, the control system 800 of the present embodiment does not require a collision determination process performed by a processor or the like, such as the electronic control unit described in Patent Document 1. Therefore, compared with the electrical circuit of Patent Document 1, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts (the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate).

[0065] (1.2) Details

[0066] (1.2.1) Power supply system

[0067] As Figure 2 shown, the disconnection system 900 is used, for example, in the power supply system 200 and forms a part of the power supply system 200.

[0068] The power supply system 200 is mounted on a vehicle 300 such as an electric vehicle, for example, and drives a motor 3002 connected via an inverter 3001 to make the vehicle 300 travel. In the vehicle 300, as Figure 2 shown, a pre-charge capacitor 3003 is connected in parallel with the inverter 3001.

[0069] During power operation, the inverter 3001 converts the DC power supplied from the power supply system 200 into AC power and supplies it to the motor 3002. During regeneration, the inverter 3001 converts the AC power supplied from the motor 3002 into DC power and supplies it to the power supply system 200. The motor 3002 is, for example, a three-phase AC synchronous motor.

[0070] In addition to the disconnection system 900, the power supply system 200 further includes a battery 201, a first main relay 202, a second main relay 203, a pre-charge resistor 204, a pre-charge relay 205, a current sensor (shunt resistor) 206, and a control circuit 207.

[0071] The battery 201, the first main relay 202, the second main relay 203, the current sensor 206, and the disconnection system 900 are connected in series with each other via the main circuit 930.

[0072] The battery 201 includes a plurality of battery cells connected in series. The battery cells can use, for example, nickel-metal hydride battery cells, lithium-ion battery cells, etc.

[0073] The first end of the first main relay 202 is connected to the positive electrode of the battery 201, and the second end is connected to the first input terminal (high-potential side input terminal) of the inverter 3001.

[0074] The first terminal of the second main relay 203 is connected to the first terminal 901 of the disconnection system 900. The second terminal of the second main relay 203 is connected to the second input terminal (low-potential-side input terminal) of the inverter 3001 via the current sensor 206. The second terminal 902 of the disconnection system 900 is connected to the negative electrode of the battery 201.

[0075] A series circuit of a pre-charge resistor 204 and a pre-charge relay 205 is connected in parallel with the first main relay 202.

[0076] The control circuit 207 controls the operations of the first main relay 202, the second main relay 203, and the pre-charge relay 205. The control circuit 207 is, for example, an electronic control unit (ECU) of the vehicle 300.

[0077] When starting to supply power to the motor 3002, the control circuit 207 closes the pre-charge relay 205 and the second main relay 203 to charge the pre-charge capacitor 3003. Thereby, the inrush current to the motor 3002 is suppressed. After the charging of the pre-charge capacitor 3003 is completed, the control circuit 207 opens the pre-charge relay 205 and closes the first main relay 202, so that the power supply from the power supply system 200 to the motor 3002 starts.

[0078] In addition, the control circuit 207 detects the occurrence of an abnormality in the main circuit 930 based on the current detected by the current sensor 206. When an abnormality occurs in the main circuit 930, the control circuit 207 operates (opens) at least one of the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203 to cut off the main circuit 930. For example, when the time during which the magnitude of the current detected by the current sensor 206 exceeds the threshold value continues for a preset time, the control circuit 207 opens at least one of the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203. Thereby, the main circuit 930 is cut off. In this case, for example, when the relay (the first main relay 202, the second main relay 203) that has been opened is closed again by the control circuit 207, the main circuit 930 is conducted again, and the power supply from the power supply system 200 to the motor 3002 starts again.

[0079] The disconnection system 900 operates independently of the control circuit 207. The disconnection system 900 is connected to the main circuit 930. The disconnection system 900 normally (in a normal state) conducts the main circuit 930. When an abnormal current (a current with a current value equal to or greater than a specified value) flows in the main circuit 930, the disconnection system 900 (independently of the control circuit 207) cuts off the main circuit 930.

[0080] (1.2.2) Disconnection System

[0081] Next, with reference to Figure 1 the structure of the disconnection system 900 will be described.

[0082] As described above, the disconnection system 900 includes a control system 800 and a circuit breaker 910.

[0083] The control system 800 has a first end 801 and a second end 802 connected to the main circuit 930. The control system 800 has a third end 803 and a fourth end 804 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0084] The circuit breaker 910 has a first end 911 and a second end 912 connected to the main circuit 930. The circuit breaker 910 has a third end 913 and a fourth end 914 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0085] As Figure 1 shown, in the main circuit 930, the first end 801 of the control system 800 is connected to the first end 901 of the disconnection system 900. The second end 802 of the control system 800 is connected to the first end 911 of the circuit breaker 910. The second end 912 of the circuit breaker 910 is connected to the second end 902 of the disconnection system 900.

[0086] In the auxiliary circuit 920, the third end 803 of the control system 800 is connected to the fourth end 914 of the circuit breaker 910. The fourth end 804 of the control system 800 is connected to the third end 913 of the circuit breaker 910.

[0087] The circuit breaker 910 is, for example, a make-and-break device that is activated by current and operates by an explosion occurring within the device. The circuit breaker 910 is activated, for example, by a starting current (a current with a value equal to or greater than a preset value) flowing in the auxiliary circuit 920, and cuts off the main circuit 930 using the energy generated by an explosion (combustion) occurring within the device.

[0088] The circuit breaker 910 of the present embodiment is, for example, a circuit breaker using an initiator. The circuit breaker 910 includes a gas generator 915 and a conductor 916. The gas generator 915 has a heating element connected between the third end 913 and the fourth end 914 of the circuit breaker 910 and fuel (gunpowder) disposed around the heating element. The conductor 916 is connected between the first end 911 and the second end 912 of the circuit breaker 910. In Figure 1Among them, the conductor 916 is illustrated as a normally closed contact. In the circuit breaker 910, when the starting current flows through the heating element of the gas generator 915 via the auxiliary circuit 920, the heating element generates heat, and the temperature of the gunpowder rises. When the temperature of the gunpowder exceeds the ignition point, the gunpowder explodes (burns), and the conductor is broken (divided) by the energy of the explosion (the pressure of the gas). As a result, the circuit between the first end 911 and the second end 912 of the circuit breaker 910 is cut off, and thus the main circuit 930 is cut off.

[0089] In addition, the circuit breaker 910 is not limited to the above structure. The circuit breaker 910 may be any structure that is activated by the starting current (a current with a value equal to or greater than a preset value) flowing through the auxiliary circuit 920 to cut off the main circuit 930. For example, the circuit breaker 910 may also be an electromagnetic relay having a contact device connected to the main circuit 930 and an electromagnet device connected to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0090] The control system 800 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2 as a drive source to operate, and supplies a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920. As described above, the control system 800 of the present embodiment includes a switching system 100 and a current supply source 150.

[0091] The current supply source 150 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The current supply source 150 is connected between the third terminal 803 of the control system 800 and the third terminal 103 of the switching system 100. The current supply source 150 of the present embodiment includes a constant voltage source 151 for supplying a preset voltage. The output voltage of the constant voltage source 151 is not particularly limited, for example, it is 12V DC.

[0092] The switching system 100 includes a first terminal 101 and a second terminal 102 connected to the main circuit 930, and a third terminal 103 and a fourth terminal 104 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The first terminal 101 of the switching system 100 is connected to the first terminal 801 of the control system 800. The second terminal 102 of the switching system 100 is connected to the second terminal 802 of the control system 800. The third terminal 103 of the switching system 100 is connected to the third terminal 803 of the control system 800 via the current supply source 150. The fourth terminal 104 of the switching system 100 is connected to the fourth terminal 804 of the control system 800.

[0093] (1.2.3) Switching system

[0094] Next, with reference to Figure 3 , Figure 4 the specific structure of the switching system 100 of the present embodiment will be described.

[0095] As Figure 3As shown, the switching system 100 of the control system 800 includes a driven part 1 and a driving part 2. The driven part 1 is connected between the third terminal 103 and the fourth terminal 104 of the switching system 100. In other words, the driven part 1 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The driven part 1 is connected in series with the current supply source 150. The driven part 1 is driven by the driving part 2 to change the auxiliary circuit 920 from an open state to a closed state. The driving part 2 is connected between the first terminal 101 and the second terminal 102 of the switching system 100. In other words, the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 is connected to the main circuit 930. The driving part 2 closes the driven part 1 by means of an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210.

[0096] The driven part 1 of the present embodiment includes a contact device 11. The contact device 11 includes a pair of fixed contacts 111 (a pair of first contacts) and a pair of movable contacts 112 (a pair of second contacts).

[0097] Each fixed contact 111 is provided, for example, on a fixed terminal 113 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of fixed terminals 113 is connected to the third terminal 103 of the switching system 100. The other of the pair of fixed terminals 113 is connected to the fourth terminal 104 of the switching system 100.

[0098] The pair of movable contacts 112 are provided, for example, on a plate-shaped movable contact 114 formed of a conductive material. The pair of movable contacts 112 are provided, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the movable contact 114.

[0099] The movable contact 114 can move relative to each fixed terminal 113 between a contact position and a separation position. Here, the contact position is the position where the pair of movable contacts 112 of the movable contact 114 respectively contact the pair of fixed contacts 111. The separation position is the position where the pair of movable contacts 112 of the movable contact 114 leave the pair of fixed contacts 111. In other words, the movable contact 112 can move between a closed position where it contacts the fixed contact 111 and an open position where it leaves the fixed contact 111. As Figure 3 shown, a contact pressure spring 30B is disposed between the movable contact 114 and a part of the housing (or contact holder) 31. The movable contact 114 is held at the separation position by the contact pressure spring 30B.

[0100] The driving part 2 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 as a driving source to move the movable contact 114 from the separation position to the contact position. In other words, the driving part 2 uses the abnormal current flowing through the main circuit 930 as a driving source to move the movable contact 112 from the open position to the closed position.

[0101] The drive unit 2 of the present embodiment drives the driven unit 1 by the electromagnetic action generated by a magnetic field, which is generated by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210. More specifically, as Figure 3 shown, the drive unit 2 of the present embodiment includes an exciting coil 211, a movable member 212, and a fixed member 213.

[0102] The exciting coil 211 is connected between the first end 101 and the second end 102 of the switch system 100. In other words, the exciting coil 211 forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 and is connected to the main circuit 930. The movable member 212 is formed of a magnetic material. The movable member 212 can move between a first position ( Figure 3 the position shown) and a second position ( Figure 4 the position shown). The movable member 212 is held at the first position by the spring force of the contact pressure spring 30B applied via the movable contact 114 and the shaft 30. The fixed member 213 is formed of a magnetic material. In addition, a contact pressure spring 30C is disposed between the fixed member 213 and the movable contact 114.

[0103] The fixed member 213 and the movable member 212 are arranged facing each other. At least a part of the magnetic flux (magnetic field) 214 generated by the exciting coil 211 passes through the fixed member 213, the movable member 212, and the gap between the fixed member 213 and the movable member 212 in one direction (upward in the example of Figure 3 ).

[0104] In the drive unit 2, when an abnormal current flows through the exciting coil 211, the movable member 212 is attracted to the fixed member 213 by the magnetic field generated by the exciting coil 211, so that the movable member 212 moves from the first position ( Figure 3 the position shown) to the second position ( Figure 4 the position shown).

[0105] The movable contact 114 of the contact device 11 is coupled to the movable member 212 by a rod-shaped shaft 30. Accordingly, the movable contact 114 moves as the movable member 212 moves. In other words, the movable contact 112 moves as the movable member 212 moves.

[0106] Moreover, when the movable member 212 is in the first position, the movable contact 114 is in the separated position. In other words, when the movable member 212 is in the first position, the movable contact 112 is located at the open position away from the fixed contact 111 (refer to Figure 3 ; the open (OFF) state of the contact device 11). In addition, when the movable member 212 is in the second position, the movable contact 114 is in the contact position. In other words, when the movable member 212 is in the second position, the movable contact 112 is located at the closed position in contact with the fixed contact 111 (refer to Figure 4; The contact device 11 is in the ON state).

[0107] (1.2.4) Action

[0108] With the above-described structure, in the switch system 100, when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930 (no current flows, or the current value is less than a specified value), the movable member 212 is maintained in the first position mainly by the spring force of the contact pressure spring 30B. As a result, the movable contact 112 is maintained in the disconnected position, and the auxiliary circuit 920 is disconnected.

[0109] On the other hand, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows through the exciting coil 211, so that the exciting coil 211 is excited, and the movable member 212 is attracted to the fixed member 213 and moves from the first position to the second position. The movable contact 112 moves from the open position to the closed position, thereby short-circuiting the third end 103 and the fourth end 104 of the switch system 100. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, and the circuit breaker 910 operates to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0110] According to the control system 800 and the circuit breaker system 900 of the present embodiment, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows to the intermediate circuit 210 of the driver 2. The switch system 100 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a driving source to move the movable member 212 to the second position, thereby closing the auxiliary circuit 920. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920, and the circuit breaker 910 is operated to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0111] As described above, according to the present embodiment, collision determination processing by a processor or the like as in the electronic control unit described in Patent Document 1 is not required. Therefore, the time until the circuit breaker 910 is activated (the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate) can be shortened compared to the electrical circuit of Patent Document 1. In addition, even in the case of a failure of the electronic control unit, the circuit breaker 910 can be operated.

[0112] In addition, for example, in a configuration in which a processor such as the control circuit 207 detects an abnormal current via the current sensor 206 and the control circuit 207 sends a control signal to the circuit breaker 910 to operate the circuit breaker 910, the control circuit 207 needs to determine the occurrence of the abnormal current. In contrast, in the present embodiment, the determination process by the processor is not required, so that the time until the circuit breaker 910 is activated (the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate) can be shortened compared to this configuration.

[0113] In addition, this embodiment can be implemented by a simple structure including a driven part 1 and a driving part 2. In addition, in this embodiment, the driven part 1 is opened and closed by moving the movable contact 112 spatially (physically), so that the driven part 1 can be reliably opened and closed, improving the reliability.

[0114] (1.3) Variant

[0115] Next, variants of Embodiment 1 will be listed. In addition, the above embodiment may sometimes be referred to as the "basic example" below.

[0116] (1.3.1) First Variant

[0117] As the first variant of this embodiment, it may be that, as shown in Figure 5 A of Figure 5 B of Figure 6 A of Figure 6 B of, the driving part 2 of the switch system 100 in the control system 800 includes a first yoke 221 and a second yoke 222.

[0118] The first yoke 221 and the second yoke 222 are formed of a magnetic material.

[0119] The first yoke 221 is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member 105 connected between the first end 101 and the second end 102 of the switch system 100. The wiring member 105 constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2. That is, the wiring member 105 constitutes a part of the main circuit 930. The wiring member 105 is, for example, a plate-like member formed of a conductive material. In other words, the first yoke 221 is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member 105 connected to the main circuit 930. In addition, as long as the first yoke 221 is relatively fixed (position determined) with respect to the wiring member 105, it may be fixed to the housing, for example.

[0120] The second yoke 222 is disposed facing the first yoke 221 with the wiring member 105 sandwiched therebetween. The second yoke 222 can move between a first position ( Figure 5 A of Figure 5 B of the positions shown) and a second position ( Figure 6 A of Figure 6 B of the positions shown).

[0121] The second yoke 222 is held in the first position by, for example, the permanent magnet 30A and the contact pressure spring 30B. The permanent magnet 30A is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member 105. The permanent magnet 30A is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member 105 such that the second yoke 222 is located between the permanent magnet 30A and the first yoke 221. For example, the wiring member 105 and the permanent magnet 30A are held by a holding member fixed to the housing. The permanent magnet 30A attracts the second yoke 222 formed of a magnetic material by magnetic force (towards Figure 5 A of Figure 5 above B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 above B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 above B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 in the state of B of

[0122] When current flows through the wiring member 105, at least a part of the magnetic flux (magnetic field) 214 generated by the current flowing through the wiring member 105 (refer to Figure 5 B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 the downward force of B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 the downward force of B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 the upward force of B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 the position shown by B of

[0123] When the current value of the current flowing through the wiring member 105 becomes equal to or greater than a specified value (in other words, when an abnormal current flows through the wiring member 105), the above-described attractive force exceeds the forces from the permanent magnet 30A and the contact pressure spring 30B, and the second yoke 222 is pulled toward the first yoke 221 (toward Figure 5 A of Figure 5 and moves downward of B of Figure 5 A of Figure 5 ). As a result, the second yoke 222 moves to the second position. That is, the second yoke 222 is attracted to the first yoke 221 by the magnetic field generated by the abnormal current flowing through the wiring member 105, and thus moves from the first position ( Figure 6 A of Figure 6 the position shown by B of

[0124] to the second position (

[0125] the position shown by A of Figure 5 and Figure 5 B of Figure 6 A of Figure 6 and B of

[0126] The movable contact 114 of the contact device 11 is coupled to the second yoke 222 via the rod-shaped shaft 30. Accordingly, the movable contact 114 moves as the second yoke 222 moves. In other words, the movable contact 112 moves as the second yoke 222 moves.

[0127] (1.3.2) Second Modified Example

[0128] As a second modified example of the present embodiment, it may be that the drive unit 2 of the switch system 100 in the control system 800 drives the driven unit 1 using the heat generated by the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210. For example, as Figure 7 andFigure 8 As shown, the driving unit 2 includes a bimetal plate 231.

[0129] The bimetal plate 231 is formed by bonding two metal plates with different coefficients of thermal expansion, and the bimetal plate 231 bends due to temperature changes.

[0130] The bimetal plate 231 contacts a wiring member 105 connected between the first end 101 and the second end 102 of the switch system 100. The wiring member 105 forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving unit 2 and is, for example, a plate-shaped member formed of a conductive material. The wiring member 105 is a member with a very small coefficient of thermal expansion compared to the coefficients of thermal expansion of the two metal plates of the bimetal plate 231 (a member that is not easily deformed due to temperature changes compared to the bimetal plate 231).

[0131] The bimetal plate 231 is heated and bent by the heat generated by the abnormal current flowing through the wiring member 105. In other words, the bimetal plate 231 is deformed from the first shape (refer to Figure 7 ) to the second shape (refer to Figure 8 ) by the abnormal current flowing through the main circuit 930 (intermediate circuit 210). The first shape is, for example, linear in a side view. The second shape is, for example, V-shaped in a side view.

[0132] A contact pressure spring 30B is disposed between the movable contact 114 of the contact device 11 and a part 31 of the housing. In addition, the movable contact 114 is coupled to the central portion of the bimetal plate 231 by a rod-shaped shaft 30. Thus, as the bimetal plate 231 deforms, the movable contact 114 moves against the spring force of the contact pressure spring 30B. In other words, the movable contact 112 moves as the bimetal plate 231 deforms. Further, a contact pressure spring 30C is disposed between the movable contact 114 and the wiring member 105.

[0133] When the bimetal plate 231 is in the first shape, the movable contact 114 is in the separated position. In other words, when the bimetal plate 231 is in the first shape, the movable contact 112 is located at the open position away from the fixed contact 111 (refer to Figure 7 ). In addition, when the bimetal plate 231 is in the second shape, the movable contact 114 is in the contact position. In other words, when the bimetal plate 231 is in the second shape, the movable contact 112 is located at the closed position in contact with the fixed contact 111 (refer to Figure 8 ).

[0134] In the switch system 100 of this modification example, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows into the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2. The switch system 100 of this modification example uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a drive source to deform the bimetal plate 231 into the second shape, thereby closing the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, in the control system 800 and the disconnection system 900 equipped with the switch system 100 of this modification example, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate with a simple structure.

[0135] (1.3.3) The third modification example

[0136] As the third modification example of this embodiment, it is also possible that the drive unit 2 of the switch system 100 in the control system 800 drives the driven unit 1 by the electromagnetic repulsive force generated by the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210. For example, as Figures 9 to 11 shown, the switch system 100 is implemented by an electromagnetic relay 40 having a main contact device 41 and an auxiliary contact device 42. In this modification example, the main contact device 41 corresponds to the drive unit 2, and the auxiliary contact device 42 corresponds to the driven unit 1 (contact device 11). The main contact device 41 of the electromagnetic relay 40 can be shared as either the first main relay 202 or the second main relay 203 of the power supply system 200.

[0137] As Figures 9 to 11 shown, the electromagnetic relay 40 of this modification example further includes an electromagnet device 43 in addition to the main contact device 41 and the auxiliary contact device 42.

[0138] The main contact device 41 includes a pair of main fixed contacts 411 and a pair of main movable contacts 412. Each main fixed contact 411 is provided, for example, on a main fixed terminal 413 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of main fixed terminals 413 is connected to the first end 101 of the switch system 100. The other of the pair of main fixed terminals 413 is connected to the second end 102 of the switch system 100. The pair of main movable contacts 412 are provided, for example, on the first surface 401 of a plate-shaped movable contact 400 formed of a conductive material. The pair of main movable contacts 412 are provided, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the movable contact 400 so as to face the pair of main fixed contacts 411. The movable contact 400 can move relative to each main fixed terminal 413 between a position where the pair of main movable contacts 412 respectively contact the pair of main fixed contacts 411 and a position where the pair of main movable contacts 412 are separated from the pair of main fixed contacts 411.

[0139] The auxiliary contact device 42 (contact device 11) includes a pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (first contacts) and a pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 (second contacts). The pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 are disposed, for example, on the second surface 402 of the movable contact 400. Here, the second surface 402 of the movable contact 400 is the surface on the opposite side of the first surface 401 in the thickness direction of the movable contact 400. The pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 are disposed, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the movable contact 400. Each auxiliary fixed contact 421 is disposed, for example, on an auxiliary fixed terminal 423 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of auxiliary fixed terminals 423 is connected to the third terminal 103 of the switch system 100. The other of the pair of auxiliary fixed terminals 423 is connected to the fourth terminal 104 of the switch system 100.

[0140] In the electromagnetic relay 40, when the pair of main movable contacts 412 respectively contact the pair of main fixed contacts 411, the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 separate from the pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (see Figure 10 ). On the other hand, when the movable contact 400 moves a preset distance or more from this state (downward toward Figure 10 ), the pair of main movable contacts 412 separate from the pair of main fixed contacts 411 and the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 respectively contact the pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (see Figure 9 , Figure 11 ). That is, the auxiliary movable contacts 422 (second contacts) of the auxiliary contact device 42 (contact device 11) can move between a closed position where they contact the auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (first contacts) and an open position where they are separated from the auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (first contacts).

[0141] The electromagnet device 43 includes a fixed member 430, a movable member 431, an exciting coil 432, a shaft 433, a holding member 434, a contact pressure spring 435, and a return spring 436.

[0142] The fixing member 430 is a fixed iron core. The movable member 431 is a movable iron core and can move between a position close to the fixing member 430 and a position away from the fixing member 430. The fixing member 430 and the movable member 431 are arranged inside the exciting coil 432. In the electromagnet device 43, when the exciting coil 432 is energized, the movable member 431 is attracted by the magnetic flux generated by the exciting coil 432, and thus the movable member 431 moves in the direction toward the fixing member 430. On the other hand, when the power supply to the exciting coil 432 is stopped, the movable member 431 moves downward by the spring force of the return spring 436. For example, the power supply to the exciting coil 432 is controlled by the control circuit 207. The shaft 433 is used to transmit the driving force generated by the electromagnet device 43 to the movable contact 400. The upper end of the shaft 433 is fixed to the holding member 434, and the lower end of the shaft 433 is fixed to the movable member 431. The holding member 434 is formed in a rectangular frame shape, and the movable contact 400 passes through the through hole of the holding member 434. The contact pressure spring 435 is arranged between the bottom plate of the holding member 434 and the movable contact 400, and applies a force to the movable contact 400 Figure 9 upward. The return spring 436 is arranged inside the fixing member 430 and applies a force to the movable member 431 Figure 9 downward.

[0143] In the electromagnetic relay 40, when the exciting coil 432 is not energized (refer to Figure 9 ), mainly due to the spring force of the return spring 436, the movable member 431 and the holding member 434 are pulled downward. At this time, the movable contact 400 is also pushed downward by the holding member 434, so that the main fixed contact 411 is separated from the main movable contact 412. That is, in this state, the pair of main fixed terminals 413 are disconnected.

[0144] When the exciting coil 432 is energized (refer to Figure 10 ), the movable member 431 is attracted by the magnetic flux generated by the exciting coil 432 and thus is located above. At this time, the movable contact 400 is pushed upward by the bottom plate of the holding member 434 via the contact pressure spring 435, so that the main movable contact 412 contacts the main fixed contact 411. That is, in this state, the pair of main fixed terminals 413 are conducted.

[0145] Here, when the exciting coil 432 is energized (when the pair of main fixed terminals 413 are conducted), when an abnormal current flows through the movable contact 400 constituting the intermediate circuit 210, an electromagnetic repulsive force in the direction of separating the main movable contact 412 from the main fixed contact 411 is generated at the movable contact 400. When the movable contact 400 is subjected to this electromagnetic repulsive force, it moves Figure 10 downward, so that the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422 contact the pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 421 (refer to Figure 11)。As a result, conduction is established between a pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 421 via the movable contact 400, and starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0146] In the switch system 100 of this modification, when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows into the intermediate circuit 210 (movable contact 400) of the drive unit 2 (main contact device 41). Moreover, the switch system 100 of this modification uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a drive source for moving the movable contact 400 to close the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, in the control system 800 and the disconnection system 900 equipped with the switch system 100 of this modification, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts operating with a simple structure.

[0147] In addition, the switch system 100 preferably includes a determination mechanism. The determination mechanism here is a mechanism that allows starting current to be supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920 only when the auxiliary contact device 42 is conducting in a state where the exciting coil 432 is energized (that is, prevents starting current from being supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920 even if conduction is established between the auxiliary fixed contacts 421 via the movable contact 400 in a state where the exciting coil 432 is not energized). The determination mechanism can be implemented, for example, by the same mechanism as the second auxiliary contact device 63 and the second operation control unit 64 of the ninth modification described later.

[0148] (1.3.4) Fourth modification

[0149] In the switch system 100 of the control system 800 in the above basic example and the first to third modifications, the driven unit 1 is implemented by the contact device 11 (see Figure 1 ), and the contact device 11 has a structure of a so-called a-contact (normally open contact), and the structure is as follows: The contact device 11 is normally in an open state where the second contact (movable contact 112) is separated from the first contact (fixed contact 111), and is driven by the drive unit 2 to become a closed state where the second contact contacts the first contact. In contrast, in the switch system 100 of this modification, the driven unit 1 includes a contact device 51 and a signal inversion circuit 52 (see Figure 12) The contact device 51 has a structure of a so-called b contact (normally closed contact). The contact device 51 here is a device that is normally in a closed state where the second contact (movable contact 512) contacts the first contact (fixed contact 511), and is driven by the drive unit 2 to change to an open state where the second contact separates from the first contact. In addition, the signal inversion circuit 52 here does not supply startup current from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920 when the contact device 51 is not driven by the drive unit 2 and is in a closed state. On the other hand, when the contact device 51 is driven by the drive unit 2 and changes to an open state, the signal inversion circuit 52 supplies startup current from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0150] In Figure 12 the example, the signal inversion circuit 52 includes a first resistor R1, a second resistor R2, and an optocoupler 520. The first resistor R1 is connected between both ends of the current supply source 150 in series with the contact device 51. In addition, the second resistor R2 and the series circuit of the photodiode of the optocoupler 520 are connected between both ends of the current supply source 150. In addition, the phototransistor of the optocoupler 520 is connected between both ends of the current supply source 150 in series with the gas generator 915 of the circuit breaker 910. Here, the resistance value of the second resistor R2 is set to be much larger than the resistance value of the first resistor R1. Therefore, when the contact device 51 is in a closed state, almost no current flows through the second resistor R2, and the phototransistor of the optocoupler 520 is cut off.

[0151] Next, a comparison between the operation of the switch system 100 with the structure of this modified example and the operation of the switch system 100 in the basic example is inserted and described with reference to Figure 13 the A Figure 13 and B flowcharts of

[0152] In the switch system 100 of the basic example, as shown in the A flowchart of Figure 13 , when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930 (S1: "No"), the contact device 11 is in an open state (S2), and the auxiliary circuit 920 is cut off. In this state, the current value of the current flowing to the auxiliary circuit 920 is zero, no startup current is supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920 (S3), and the circuit breaker 910 does not operate (S4).

[0153] Then, when the current value of the current flowing through the main circuit 930 becomes equal to or greater than a specified value (S1: "Yes") and thus an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the contact device 11 becomes in the on state (S5), and a short circuit occurs between the third terminal 103 and the fourth terminal 104 of the switch system 100. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920 (S6), the starting current is supplied to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, so that the circuit breaker 910 operates (S7), and the main circuit 930 is cut off.

[0154] In contrast, in the switch system 100 of this modified example, as shown in the flowchart of B in Figure 13 , when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930 (S11: "No"), the contact device 51 becomes in the on state (S12). Here, the signal inversion circuit 52 of this modified example inverts the state (on state / off state) of the contact device 51 and the state (conducting state / cut-off state) of the auxiliary circuit 920 (S13). That is, in this modified example, when the contact device 51 is in the on state, the current from the current supply source 150 flows through the contact device 51 to the first resistor R1, and almost no current flows through the second resistor R2 and the photodiode. Therefore, the phototransistor becomes in the cut-off state, and the auxiliary circuit 920 is cut off. As a result, no starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920 (S14), and the circuit breaker 910 does not operate (S15). That is to say, when the current flowing through the contact device 51 is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value, the signal inversion circuit 52 causes no starting current to be supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0155] Then, when the current value of the current flowing through the main circuit 930 becomes equal to or greater than a specified value (S11: "Yes") and thus an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the contact device 51 becomes in the off state (S16). Here, the signal inversion circuit 52 inverts the state (on state / off state) of the contact device 51 and the state (conducting state / cut-off state) of the auxiliary circuit 920 (S17). That is, when the contact device 51 becomes in the off state, current starts to flow from the current supply source 150 through the second resistor R2 to the photodiode. When a current equal to or greater than a preset magnitude flows through the photodiode, the phototransistor is turned on. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920 (S18), the starting current is supplied to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, so that the circuit breaker 910 operates (S19), and the main circuit 930 is cut off. That is to say, when the current flowing through the contact device 51 is less than the preset threshold value, the signal inversion circuit 52 causes a starting current to be supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0156] As described above, in this modification example, the driven part 1 is provided with the contact device 51 having a b-contact structure. That is, in this modification example, when the driven part 1 is driven by the driving part 2, the second contact moves from the closed position in contact with the first contact to the open position away from the first contact, thereby supplying the starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920. Here, in the case where the driven part 1 is provided with the contact device 11 having an a-contact structure as in the basic example and modification examples 1 to 3, when being driven by the driving part 2 and the second contact comes into contact with the first contact, there may be a so-called bounce (rebound) due to the physical collision between the second contact and the first contact. Therefore, there may be a deviation in the timing of starting to supply current from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920. In contrast, in this modification example, when the driven part 1 (contact device 51) is driven by the driving part 2, only the second contact moves away from the first contact, and no physical collision occurs. Thus, according to this modification example, the occurrence of bounce when being driven by the driving part 2 can be suppressed.

[0157] Next, in Figure 14 and Figure 15 、 Figure 16 of A, Figure 16 of B, Figure 17 of A and Figure 17 of B, Figure 18 and Figure 19 specific examples of the driving part 2 and the contact device 51 (driven part 1) in this modification example are respectively shown.

[0158] In Figures 14 to 19 each example, the contact device 51 includes a pair of fixed contacts 511 (a pair of first contacts) and a pair of movable contacts 512 (a pair of second contacts). Each fixed contact 511 is provided on the fixed terminal 513, and the pair of movable contacts 512 are provided on the plate-shaped movable contact head 514.

[0159] In Figure 14 and Figure 15 examples, the driving part 2 is the same as the driving part 2 in the basic example and includes an exciting coil 211, a movable member 212, and a fixed member 213. The exciting coil 211 forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210. The movable member 212 can move between a first position (a position close to the fixed member 213: refer to Figure 14 ) and a second position (a position away from the fixed member 213: refer to Figure 15 ). The movable member 212 is biased toward Figure 14The force below keeps it in the first position. In addition, a contact pressure spring 30C is disposed between a part 31 of the housing and the movable contact 514. In the drive unit 2, when an abnormal current flows through the excitation coil 211, the movable member 212 is pulled away from the fixed member 213 by the magnetic field generated by the excitation coil 211, and the movable member 212 moves from the first position ( Figure 14 the position shown) to the second position ( Figure 15 the position shown). Thus, the movable contact 514 moves from the contact position where the movable contact 512 contacts the fixed contact 511 to the separation position where the movable contact 512 separates from the fixed contact 511.

[0160] In Figure 16 A of Figure 16 B of Figure 17 A of Figure 17 B of, for example, the drive unit 2 includes a first yoke 221 and a second yoke 222 in the same manner as the drive unit 2 of the first modification. The first yoke 221 is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member 105 that constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210. The second yoke 222 is coupled to the movable contact 514. The second yoke 222 is disposed facing the first yoke 221, and the second yoke 222 can move between the first position ( Figure 16 A of Figure 16 B shown) and the second position ( Figure 17 A of Figure 17 B shown). The second yoke 222 is held in the first position by, for example, a permanent magnet 30A and a contact pressure spring 30B. The permanent magnet 30A attracts the second yoke 222 with a magnetic force (toward Figure 16 A of Figure 16 B below). The contact pressure spring 30B is disposed between the first yoke 221 and the second yoke 222, and applies a force to the second yoke 222 in a direction away from the first yoke 221 ( Figure 16 A of Figure 16 B below). In addition, a contact pressure spring 30C is disposed between the second yoke 222 and the permanent magnet 30A. In the drive unit 2, when the current value of the current flowing through the wiring member 105 is less than a specified value, the second yoke 222 is mainly held in the first position by the attractive force of the permanent magnet 30A and the downward force generated by the contact pressure spring 30B. On the other hand, when the current value of the current flowing through the wiring member 105 becomes equal to or greater than the specified value, the attractive force between the first yoke 221 and the second yoke 222 becomes larger, and the second yoke 222 moves from the first position ( Figure 16 A of Figure 16 B position) to the second position ( Figure 17 A of Figure 17The position of B) moves. As a result, the movable contact 514 moves from the contact position where the movable contact 512 contacts the fixed contact 511 to the separation position where the movable contact 512 separates from the fixed contact 511.

[0161] In Figure 18 , Figure 19 's example, the drive unit 2 is provided with a bimetal plate 231 in the same manner as the drive unit 2 of the second modification.

[0162] The bimetal plate 231 contacts a wiring member 105 that constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210. A contact pressure spring 30B is disposed between the wiring member 105 and the movable contact 514, and a contact pressure spring 30C is disposed between the movable contact 514 and a part 31 of the housing. The bimetal plate 231 is heated and bent by the heat generated by the abnormal current flowing through the wiring member 105, and is deformed from the first shape (refer to Figure 18 ) to the second shape (refer to Figure 19 ). The first shape is, for example, linear when viewed from the side. The second shape is, for example, an inverted V shape when viewed from the side. In the drive unit 2, when an abnormal current flows through the wiring member 105, the bimetal plate 231 is deformed from the first shape to the second shape. As a result, the movable contact 514 coupled to the bimetal plate 231 through the shaft 30 moves from the contact position where the movable contact 512 contacts the fixed contact 511 to the separation position where the movable contact 512 separates from the fixed contact 511. In addition, the bimetal plate 231 is held in the first shape by the contact pressure spring 30B even when slightly heated.

[0163] Of course, the drive unit 2 may also be a structure that drives the driven unit 1 by electromagnetic repulsion generated by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210, in the same manner as the drive unit 2 of the third modification. For example, as Figure 20 shown, the auxiliary movable contact 422 of the auxiliary contact device 42 (contact device 11) may be structured to contact the auxiliary fixed contact 421 simultaneously when the main movable contact 412 of the main contact device 41 contacts the main fixed contact 411. In addition, in Figure 20 , it is preferable that the movable contact 400 includes a first conductive portion that connects between a pair of main movable contacts 412, a second conductive portion that connects between a pair of auxiliary movable contacts 422, and an insulating portion that electrically insulates between the first conductive portion and the second conductive portion.

[0164] In addition, as Figure 12 shown, in this modification, it is configured to supply current to both the photodiode and the circuit breaker 910 (gas generator 915) from one current supply source 150 in the ON state of the contact device 51, but it is not limited thereto. A second current supply source that supplies current to the photodiode may be provided separately from the first current supply source that supplies current to the circuit breaker 910.

[0165] In addition, the driven part 1 may also be equipped with a relay device, an IPD (Intelligent Power Device), etc. to replace the optocoupler 520.

[0166] (1.3.5) The fifth modification

[0167] As the fifth modification of the present embodiment, it may also be that, as Figure 21 shown, in the switching system 100 of the control system 800, the driven part 1 is equipped with a semiconductor relay (solid-state relay; SSR) 12, and the driving part 2 is equipped with a first winding 241 and a second winding 242.

[0168] The first winding 241 is connected between the first end 101 and the second end 102 of the switching system 100. The first winding 241 constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2. In other words, the first winding 241 is connected to the main circuit 930. The second winding 242 is electromagnetically coupled to the first winding 241. For example, the first winding 241 and the second winding 242 are wound around the same iron core and are electromagnetically coupled. A transformer is constituted by the first winding 241 and the second winding 242.

[0169] The semiconductor relay 12 has a pair of input terminals 121 and a pair of output terminals 122. One of the pair of input terminals 121 is respectively connected to both ends of the second winding 242. One of the pair of output terminals 122 is connected to the third end 103 of the switching system 100, and the other of the pair of output terminals 122 is connected to the fourth end 104 of the switching system 100. As Figure 21 shown, the semiconductor relay 12 of the present embodiment is a transformer-coupled solid-state relay (transformer-coupled SSR) equipped with a DC / AC converter, a transformer, a trigger circuit, and a thyristor.

[0170] When current flows through the first winding 241, an induced current flows through the second winding 242. Here, when the current value of the current flowing through the second winding 242 is below a preset threshold value, the semiconductor relay 12 is cut off. On the other hand, when an abnormal current flows through the first winding 241, the semiconductor relay 12 is turned on by the induced current (a current with a current value above the above-mentioned threshold value) flowing through the second winding 242 due to the abnormal current. When the semiconductor relay 12 is turned on, a short circuit occurs between the third end 103 and the fourth end 104 of the switching system 100. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, and the circuit breaker 910 operates to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0171] In other words, the semiconductor relay 12 is driven by the induced current generated in the second winding 242 due to the abnormal current flowing through the first winding 241, and closes the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0172] In the switch system 100 of this modification, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows into the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2. The switch system 100 of this modification uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a drive source for turning on the semiconductor relay 12 to close the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, in the control system 800 and the disconnection system 900 including the switch system 100 of this modification, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate with a simple structure.

[0173] In addition, the semiconductor relay 12 is not limited to being a transformer-coupled solid-state relay (SSR), and may be other semiconductor relays such as a reed-relay coupled SSR or a photo-coupled SSR.

[0174] (1.3.6) Sixth modification

[0175] As the sixth modification of this embodiment, it may be that, as Figure 22 shown, the driven part 1 of the switch system 100 in the control system 800 includes a contact device (first contact device) 11 and a second contact device 13.

[0176] The first contact device 11 includes a pair of first contacts (a pair of first fixed contacts) 111 and a pair of second contacts (a pair of first movable contacts) 112.

[0177] Each first fixed contact 111 is disposed, for example, on a fixed terminal (first fixed terminal) 113 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of first fixed terminals 113 is connected to the fourth terminal 104 of the switch system 100. The other of the pair of first fixed terminals 113 is connected to one of the pair of second fixed terminals 133 of the second contact device 13.

[0178] The pair of first movable contacts 112 are disposed, for example, on a plate-shaped movable contact head (first movable contact head) 114 formed of a conductive material. The pair of first movable contacts 112 are disposed, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the first movable contact head 114.

[0179] The first movable contact 114 is capable of relative movement between a contact position and a separation position with respect to each of the first fixed terminals 113. Here, the contact position is the position where a pair of first movable contacts 112 of the first movable contact 114 respectively contact a pair of first fixed contacts 111. The separation position is the position where the pair of first movable contacts 112 of the first movable contact 114 have left the pair of first fixed contacts 111. In other words, the first movable contacts 112 are capable of movement between a closed position where they contact the first fixed contacts 111 and an open position where they have left the first fixed contacts 111.

[0180] The second contact device 13 includes a pair of second fixed contacts 131 and a pair of second movable contacts 132.

[0181] Each of the second fixed contacts 131 is provided, for example, on a second fixed terminal 133 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of second fixed terminals 133 is connected to the other of the pair of first fixed terminals 113 of the first contact device 11. The other of the pair of second fixed terminals 133 is connected to the third terminal 103 of the switch system 100.

[0182] The pair of second movable contacts 132 are provided, for example, on a plate-shaped second movable contact 134 formed of a conductive material. The pair of second movable contacts 132 are provided, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the second movable contact 134.

[0183] The second movable contact 134 is capable of relative movement between a contact position and a separation position with respect to each of the second fixed terminals 133. Here, the contact position is the position where the pair of second movable contacts 132 of the second movable contact 134 respectively contact the pair of second fixed contacts 131. The separation position is the position where the pair of second movable contacts 132 of the second movable contact 134 have left the pair of second fixed contacts 131. In other words, the second movable contacts 132 are capable of movement between a closed position where they contact the second fixed contacts 131 and an open position where they have left the second fixed contacts 131.

[0184] The drive unit 2 of this modification example includes an exciting coil (first exciting coil) 211 for driving the first contact device 11, a movable member (first movable member) 212, and a fixed member (first fixed member) 213. In addition, the drive unit 2 of this modification example further includes a second exciting coil 216, a second movable member 217, and a second fixed member 218 for driving the second contact device 13. The first end of the first exciting coil 211 is connected to the second end 102 of the switch system 100, the second end of the first exciting coil 211 is connected to the first end of the second exciting coil 216, and the second end of the second exciting coil 216 is connected to the first end 101 of the switch system 100. The first exciting coil 211 and the second exciting coil 216 form at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2. Therefore, the same current flows through the second exciting coil 216 as that flowing through the first exciting coil 211.

[0185] The first movable member 212 is formed of a magnetic material. The first movable member 212 can move between a first position ( Figure 22 the position shown). The first movable member 212 is held at the first position by a contact pressure spring (not shown). The first fixed member 213 is formed of a magnetic material.

[0186] In the drive unit 2 of this modification example, when an abnormal current flows through the first exciting coil 211, the first movable member 212 is attracted to the first fixed member 213 by the magnetic field generated by the first exciting coil 211, and the first movable member 212 moves from the first position (refer to Figure 22 ). to the second position.

[0187] The second movable member 217 is formed of a magnetic material. The second movable member 217 can move between a third position ( Figure 22 the position shown) and a fourth position. The second movable member 217 is held at the third position by a second contact pressure spring (not shown). The second fixed member 218 is formed of a magnetic material.

[0188] In the drive unit 2 of this modification example, when an abnormal current flows through the second exciting coil 216, the second movable member 217 is attracted to the second fixed member 218 by the magnetic field generated by the second exciting coil 216, and the second movable member 217 moves from the third position (refer to Figure 22 ). to the fourth position.

[0189] That is, in this modification, when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930 (intermediate circuit 210), the first movable member 212 is maintained in the first position by the spring force of the first contact pressure spring, and the second movable member 217 is maintained in the third position by the spring force of the second contact pressure spring. As a result, the first movable contact 112 is maintained in the disconnected position, and the second movable contact 132 is maintained in the disconnected position, so that the auxiliary circuit 920 is disconnected.

[0190] On the other hand, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, an abnormal current flows through the first excitation coil 211, so that the first excitation coil 211 is excited, and the first movable part 212 is attracted to the first fixed part 213 and moves from the first position to the second position. The first movable contact 112 moves from the open position to the closed position. In addition, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, an abnormal current flows through the second excitation coil 216, so that the second excitation coil 216 is excited, and the second movable part 217 is attracted to the second fixed part 218 and moves from the third position to the fourth position. The second movable contact 132 moves from the open position to the closed position. As a result, the third end 103 and the fourth end 104 of the switch system 100 are short-circuited.

[0191] Here, if Figure 22 As shown, the first movable contact 114 of this modification moves along the first direction D1. On the other hand, the second movable contact 134 moves along the second direction D2 which is orthogonal to the first direction D1. In summary, in the switch system 100 of this modification, the direction in which the first movable contact 112 moves (the first direction D1) is different from the direction in which the second movable contact 132 moves (the second direction D2).

[0192] As described above, in this modification, the direction in which the first movable contact 112 moves (the direction in which the first movable contact 114 moves) and the direction in which the second movable contact 132 moves (the direction in which the second movable contact 134 moves) are different.

[0193] For example, in the control system 800, when the housing of the system is subjected to an impact in the direction along the first direction D1, the first movable contact 114 moves in the direction along the first direction D1, and the first movable contact 112 may contact the first fixed contact 111. However, even in this case, the possibility that the second movable contact 134 moves in the direction along the second direction D2 due to the impact is low, and thus the possibility that the second movable contact 132 contacts the second fixed contact 131 is low. Therefore, according to this modification, the possibility that the auxiliary circuit 920 is closed unnecessarily due to an impact or the like can be reduced, and the possibility that the starting current flows to the auxiliary circuit 920 unnecessarily can be reduced.

[0194] In addition, in order to drive the second contact device 13, the driving unit 2 may also include a third yoke and a fourth yoke, and may also include a second bimetal plate, instead of the second exciting coil 216, the second movable member 217, and the second fixed member 218. The relationship between the third yoke and the fourth yoke and the second contact device 13 is the same as the relationship between the first yoke 221 and the second yoke 222 and the contact device 11, so the description is omitted. Similarly, the relationship between the second bimetal plate and the second contact device 13 is the same as the relationship between the bimetal plate 231 and the contact device 11, so the description is omitted.

[0195] (1.3.7) Seventh variant

[0196] As a seventh variation of this embodiment, it may also be as follows Figure 23 As shown, the switch system 100 of the control system 800 includes a driven part (first opening and closing part) 1, a driving part 2, a second opening and closing part 3, and a third opening and closing part 4. The structures of the driven part 1 and the driving part 2 are the same as those in the basic example, and thus description thereof is omitted.

[0197] The second opening and closing part 3 is connected in series with the first opening and closing part 1 in the auxiliary circuit 920. Specifically, in the switch system 100, the series circuit of the first opening and closing part 1 and the second opening and closing part 3 is connected between the third end 103 and the fourth end 104. The second opening and closing part 3 is used to open and close the auxiliary circuit 920. Since the auxiliary circuit 920 is connected with the first opening and closing part 1 and the second opening and closing part 3, the starting current flows to the auxiliary circuit 920 only when the first opening and closing part 1 is closed and the second opening and closing part 3 is closed.

[0198] The third opening and closing part 4 is connected to the main circuit 930. Specifically, in the switch system 100, a series circuit of the third opening and closing part 4 and the driving part 2 is connected between the first end 101 and the second end 102.

[0199] The second opening and closing part 3 opens and closes the auxiliary circuit 920 in a manner linked to the opening and closing of the main circuit 930 by the third opening and closing part 4. In detail, when the third opening and closing part 4 closes the main circuit 930, the second opening and closing part 3 closes the auxiliary circuit 920, and when the third opening and closing part 4 opens the main circuit 930, the second opening and closing part 3 opens the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0200] In a specific example, the third disconnecting and closing section 4 connected to the main circuit 930 and the second disconnecting and closing section 3 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920 are constituted by the main contact device and the auxiliary contact device of an electromagnetic relay. For example, when the coil in the electromagnet device of the electromagnetic relay is energized, the third disconnecting and closing section (main contact device) 4 closes, and at the same time, the second disconnecting and closing section (auxiliary contact device) 3 also closes. When the coil is not energized, the third disconnecting and closing section 4 and the second disconnecting and closing section 3 are each disconnected. That is, the second disconnecting and closing section 3 disconnects and closes according to the disconnection and closing of the third disconnecting and closing section 4. For example, the disconnection and closing (whether to energize the coil) of the third disconnecting and closing section 4 and the second disconnecting and closing section 3 are controlled by the control circuit 207.

[0201] In this modified example, in the normal state where the circuit breaker 910 is not activated, the control circuit 207 controls the conduction and non-conduction of the main circuit 930 by disconnecting and closing the third disconnecting and closing section 4. When the third disconnecting and closing section (main contact device) 4 is closed by the control circuit 207, the second disconnecting and closing section (auxiliary contact device) 3 is also closed. In this state, when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the drive unit 2 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2 as a drive source to close the first disconnecting and closing section 1. As a result, the starting current flows to the auxiliary circuit 920, and the circuit breaker 910 can cut off the main circuit 930.

[0202] On the other hand, in the normal state, when the third disconnecting and closing section 4 is disconnected by the control circuit 207 and no current flows in the main circuit 930, the first disconnecting and closing section 1 may be closed due to some factors such as an impact not caused by the drive unit 2. In this case, if it is this modified example, the second disconnecting and closing section 3 is disconnected by the control circuit 207, so the starting current does not flow to the auxiliary circuit 920 either. That is, in this modified example, when no current flows in the main circuit 930 in the normal state (when no power is supplied from the power supply system 200 to a load such as the motor 3002), the starting current does not flow to the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, according to this modified example, the possibility of the circuit breaker 910 malfunctioning due to the unnecessary flow of the starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920 can be reduced.

[0203] In addition, the third disconnecting and closing section 4 (main contact device) may also be shared as either the first main relay 202 or the second main relay 203 of the power supply system 200. That is, the power supply system 200 may only include the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203 as the relays connected to the main circuit 930. Moreover, it may be that one of the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203 includes the third disconnecting and closing section 4 as the main contact device and the second disconnecting and closing section 3 as the auxiliary contact device.

[0204] In addition, the third opening / closing section 4 and the second opening / closing section 3 are not limited to the main contact device and the auxiliary contact device of the electromagnetic relay. The second opening / closing section 3 only needs to have a structure that opens and closes according to the opening and closing of the third opening / closing section 4.

[0205] (1.3.8) Eighth modification example

[0206] As the eighth modification example of the present embodiment, it may also be, as Figure 24 shown, the switching system 100 of the control system 800 includes a driven part (first opening / closing section) 1, a driving part (first driving part) 2, a driven part (second opening / closing section) 3, and a second driving part 5. In addition, the structures of the first opening / closing section 1 and the first driving part 2 are the same as those of the driven part 1 and the driving part 2 in the first embodiment, so the description thereof is omitted.

[0207] The second opening / closing section 3 is connected in series with the first opening / closing section 1 in the auxiliary circuit 920. Specifically, in the switching system 100, the series circuit of the first opening / closing section 1 and the second opening / closing section 3 is connected between the third terminal 103 and the fourth terminal 104. The second opening / closing section 3 opens and closes the auxiliary circuit 920. Since the auxiliary circuit 920 is connected with the first opening / closing section 1 and the second opening / closing section 3, the starting current flows into the auxiliary circuit 920 only when the first opening / closing section 1 is closed and the second opening / closing section 3 is closed.

[0208] The second driving part 5 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit of the second driving part 5 as a driving source to close the second opening / closing section 3. When the magnitude of the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit of the second driving part 5 is equal to or less than the second specified value, the second driving part 5 closes the second opening / closing section 3. Here, the second specified value is greater than the first specified value which is the specified value for specifying the abnormal current. That is, the first specified value and the second specified value are different.

[0209] More specifically, in the switching system 100, the series circuit of the first driving part 2 and the second driving part 5 is connected between the first terminal 101 and the second terminal 102. When the current value of the current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the first driving part 2 is greater than the first specified value (when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930), the first driving part 2 operates to close the first opening / closing section 1. On the other hand, when the current value of the current flowing through the intermediate circuit of the second driving part 5 is greater than the first specified value (when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930) and the current value of this current is less than the second specified value, the second driving part 5 operates to close the second opening / closing section 3.

[0210] The second driving unit 5 includes, for example, a voltage dividing circuit for dividing the voltage applied to the main circuit 930. The second driving unit 5 compares the divided voltage obtained by the voltage dividing circuit with a preset reference voltage. The second driving unit 5 closes the second disconnecting and closing unit 3 only when the divided voltage is less than the reference voltage.

[0211] In this modification, when the current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the first driving unit 2 is equal to or greater than a specified value (first specified value), the first driving unit 2 closes the first disconnecting and closing unit 1. On the other hand, when the current flowing through the intermediate circuit of the second driving unit 5 is equal to or less than a second specified value (> first specified value), the second driving unit 5 closes the second disconnecting and closing unit 3. That is, in this modification, the starting current flows into the auxiliary circuit 920 only when the current flowing through the main circuit 930 is within a preset range between the lower limit (first specified value) and the upper limit (second specified value). According to this modification, diverse control can be achieved.

[0212] (1.3.9) The 9th modification

[0213] Refer to Figures 25 to 27 to describe the 9th modification of this embodiment. In this modification, the switching system 100 of the control system 800 includes a contact device (first auxiliary contact device) 11, a main contact device 61, a first operation control unit 62, a second auxiliary contact device 63, and a second operation control unit 64.

[0214] The first auxiliary contact device 11 includes a pair of fixed contacts (a pair of first auxiliary fixed contacts) 111 and a pair of movable contacts (a pair of first auxiliary movable contacts) 112.

[0215] Each first auxiliary fixed contact 111 is disposed, for example, on a fixed terminal (first auxiliary fixed terminal) 113 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of first auxiliary fixed terminals 113 is connected to the fourth end 104 of the switching system 100. The other of the pair of first auxiliary fixed terminals 113 is connected to one of the pair of second auxiliary fixed terminals 633 of the second auxiliary contact device 63.

[0216] The pair of first auxiliary movable contacts 112 are disposed, for example, on a plate-shaped movable contact head (first auxiliary movable contact head) 114 formed of a conductive material. The pair of first auxiliary movable contacts 112 are disposed, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the first auxiliary movable contact head 114.

[0217] The first auxiliary movable contact 114 is capable of relative movement between a contact position and a separation position with respect to each first auxiliary fixed terminal 113. Here, the contact position is the position where the pair of first auxiliary movable contacts 112 of the first auxiliary movable contact 114 respectively contact the pair of first auxiliary fixed contacts 111. The separation position is the position where the pair of first auxiliary movable contacts 112 of the first auxiliary movable contact 114 leave the pair of first auxiliary fixed contacts 111. In other words, the first auxiliary movable contacts 112 can move between a closed position where they contact the first auxiliary fixed contacts 111 and an open position where they leave the first auxiliary fixed contacts 111.

[0218] The main contact device 61 includes a pair of main fixed contacts 611 and a pair of main movable contacts 612. The intermediate circuit 210 of the main contact device 61 includes a pair of main fixed contacts 611 and a pair of main movable contacts 612.

[0219] Each main fixed contact 611 is provided, for example, on a main fixed terminal 613 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of main fixed terminals 613 is connected to the first end 101 of the switch system 100. The other of the pair of main fixed terminals 613 is connected to the second end 102 of the switch system 100.

[0220] The pair of main movable contacts 612 are provided, for example, on a plate-shaped main movable contact 614 formed of a conductive material. The pair of main movable contacts 612 are provided, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the main movable contact 614.

[0221] The main movable contact 614 is capable of relative movement between a contact position and a separation position with respect to each main fixed terminal 613. Here, the contact position is the position where the pair of main movable contacts 612 of the main movable contact 614 respectively contact the pair of main fixed contacts 611. The separation position is the position where the pair of main movable contacts 612 of the main movable contact 614 leave the pair of main fixed contacts 611. In other words, the main movable contacts 612 can move between a closed position where they contact the main fixed contacts 611 and an open position where they leave the main fixed contacts 611.

[0222] The first operation control unit 62 includes a first excitation coil 621, a first movable member 622, a first fixed member 623, and a shaft 624.

[0223] The first excitation coil 621 is connected to the control circuit 207. The first excitation coil 621 is energized through the control circuit 207 and thus excited.

[0224] The first movable member 622 is formed of a magnetic material. The first movable member 622 is coupled to the first auxiliary movable contact 114 of the first auxiliary contact device 11. The first movable member 622 can be in a first position ( Figure 25 the position shown) and a second position (Figure 26 moves between the positions shown. The first movable member 622 is held at the first position by a first contact pressure spring (not shown). The first fixed member 623 is formed of a magnetic material.

[0225] In the first operation control unit 62, when the first exciting coil 621 is energized through the control circuit 207, the first movable member 622 is attracted to the first fixed member 623 by the magnetic field generated by the first exciting coil 621. As a result, the first movable member 622 moves from the first position ( Figure 25 the position shown) to the second position ( Figure 26 the position shown).

[0226] The shaft 624 couples the main movable contact 614 to the first movable member 622. Accordingly, as the first movable member 622 moves, the main movable contact 614 moves and the first auxiliary movable contact 114 moves. In other words, as the first movable member 622 moves, the main movable contact point 612 moves and the first auxiliary movable contact point 112 moves.

[0227] Moreover, when the first movable member 622 is in the first position, the main movable contact 614 is in the separated position, and the first auxiliary movable contact 114 is in the contact position (see Figure 25 ). Further, when the first movable member 622 is in the second position, the main movable contact 614 is in the contact position, and the first auxiliary movable contact 114 is in the separated position (see Figure 26 ).

[0228] The second auxiliary contact device 63 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920 in series with the first auxiliary contact device 11. The second auxiliary contact device 63 includes a pair of second auxiliary fixed contacts 631 and a pair of second auxiliary movable contacts 632.

[0229] Each second auxiliary fixed contact 631 is provided, for example, on a second auxiliary fixed terminal 633 formed of a conductive material. One of the pair of second auxiliary fixed terminals 633 is connected to the other of the pair of first auxiliary fixed terminals 113 of the first auxiliary contact device 11. The other of the pair of second auxiliary fixed terminals 633 is connected to the third terminal 103 of the switch system 100.

[0230] The pair of second auxiliary movable contacts 632 are provided, for example, on a plate-shaped second auxiliary movable contact 634 formed of a conductive material. The pair of second auxiliary movable contacts 632 are provided, for example, at both ends in the long side direction of the second auxiliary movable contact 634.

[0231] The second auxiliary movable contact 634 is capable of relative movement between a contact position and a separation position with respect to each of the second auxiliary fixed terminals 633. Here, the contact position is the position where a pair of second auxiliary movable contacts 632 of the second auxiliary movable contact 634 respectively contact a pair of second auxiliary fixed contacts 631. The separation position is the position where the pair of second auxiliary movable contacts 632 of the second auxiliary movable contact 634 leave the pair of second auxiliary fixed contacts 631. In other words, the second auxiliary movable contacts 632 can move between a closed position (see Figure 26 ) where they contact the second auxiliary fixed contacts 631 and an open position (see Figure 25 ) where they leave the second auxiliary fixed contacts 631.

[0232] The second operation control unit 64 includes a second excitation coil 641, a second movable member 642, and a second fixed member 643.

[0233] The second excitation coil 641 is connected to the control circuit 207. The second excitation coil 641 is connected in series with the first excitation coil 621. The second excitation coil 641 and the first excitation coil 621 are energized and thus magnetized through the control circuit 207 together.

[0234] The second movable member 642 is formed of a magnetic material. The second movable member 642 is capable of moving between a third position (the position shown in Figure 25 ) and a fourth position (the position shown in Figure 26 ). The second movable member 642 is held at the third position (the position shown in Figure 25 ) by a second contact pressure spring (not shown). The second fixed member 643 is formed of a magnetic material.

[0235] In the second operation control unit 64, when the second excitation coil 641 is energized through the control circuit 207, the second movable member 642 is attracted to the second fixed member 643 by the magnetic field generated by the second excitation coil 641. As a result, the second movable member 642 moves from the third position (the position shown in Figure 25 ) to the fourth position (the position shown in Figure 26 ).

[0236] The second auxiliary movable contact 634 of the second auxiliary contact device 63 is coupled to the second movable member 642 by a rod-shaped shaft 644. Therefore, the second auxiliary movable contact 634 moves as the second movable member 642 moves. In other words, the second auxiliary movable contacts 632 move as the second movable member 642 moves.

[0237] Moreover, when the second movable member 642 is in the third position, the second auxiliary movable contact 634 is in the separation position (see Figure 25)。In addition, when the second movable member 642 is in the fourth position, the second auxiliary movable contact 634 is in the contact position (refer to Figure 26 ).

[0238] In this modification, when the control circuit 207 does not energize the first exciting coil 621 and the second exciting coil 641, the main contact device 61 and the second auxiliary contact device 63 are disconnected, and the first auxiliary contact device 11 is closed (refer to Figure 25 ). At this time, since the main contact device 61 is disconnected, no current flows in the main circuit 930. In addition, since the second auxiliary contact device 63 is disconnected, no current flows in the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0239] On the other hand, when the control circuit 207 energizes the first exciting coil 621 and the second exciting coil 641, the main contact device 61 and the second auxiliary contact device 63 are closed, and the first auxiliary contact device 11 is disconnected (refer to Figure 26 ). At this time, since the main contact device 61 is closed, current flows in the main circuit 930. On the other hand, since the first auxiliary contact device 11 is disconnected, no current flows in the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0240] In a state where the control circuit 207 energizes the first exciting coil 621 and the second exciting coil 641, when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit, an electromagnetic repulsive force is generated between the main fixed contact 611 and the main movable contact 612 of the main contact device 61. That is, the main fixed contact 611 and the main movable contact 612 are separated. The electromagnetic repulsive force provides a force to the main movable contact 614 in a direction away from the main fixed terminal 613. By this electromagnetic repulsive force, the main movable contact 614 moves from the contact position to the separation position. At this time, the first auxiliary movable contact 114 is also subjected to a force in the same direction as the main movable contact 614 via the first movable member 622, and moves from the separation position to the contact position (refer to Figure 27 ). Thus, both the first auxiliary contact device 11 and the second auxiliary contact device 63 are closed, and starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0241] In this modification, the main fixed contact 611 and the main movable contact 612 of the main contact device 61 constitute at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2. The drive unit 2 includes the main contact device 61 (the main fixed contact 611 and the main movable contact 612), the first movable member 622 and the shaft 624 of the first operation control unit 62.

[0242] In the switching system 100 of this modification example, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the abnormal current flows into the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2. The switching system 100 uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a drive source for separating the main fixed contact 611 from the main movable contact 612 (a drive source for moving the first movable member 622 to the first position), and closes the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, by providing the control system 800 and the opening system 900 with the switching system 100 of this modification example, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate.

[0243] In addition, the main contact device 61 can also be shared as either the first main relay 202 or the second main relay 203 of the power supply system 200. That is to say, the power supply system 200 can also be provided only with the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203 as the relays connected to the main circuit 930. Moreover, it can also be that one of the first main relay 202 and the second main relay 203 is provided with the main contact device 61, the first auxiliary contact device 11, and the first operation control unit 62.

[0244] In this modification example, especially when the main contact device 61 is shared as the first main relay 202 or the second main relay 203, it is necessary to make a major change to the structure of the main circuit 930 (power supply system 200).

[0245] In addition, the structure of this modification example can also be used in the switching system 100 of the fourth modification example. For example, as Figure 28 shown, replace the structure of the first auxiliary contact device 11 (a contact) of this modification example with the structure of the contact device 51 (b contact) of the fourth modification example. Moreover, input the output of the second auxiliary contact device 63 and the output of the contact device 51 into an OR circuit, and invert the output of the OR circuit through the signal inversion circuit 52. In this way, when the first excitation coil 621 and the second excitation coil 641 are not energized, the contact device 51 is disconnected and the second auxiliary contact device 63 is closed, so the output of the OR circuit is on. In addition, when the first excitation coil 621 and the second excitation coil 641 are energized (refer to Figure 28 ), the contact device 51 is closed and the second auxiliary contact device 63 is disconnected, so the output of the OR circuit is on. Moreover, when the first excitation coil 621 and the second excitation coil 641 are energized and an abnormal current flows through the intermediate circuit 210, both the contact device 51 and the second auxiliary contact device 63 are disconnected, so the output of the OR circuit becomes off. And the off output of the OR circuit is inverted through the signal inversion circuit 52, thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0246] (1.3.10) The tenth modification example

[0247] As a 10th modification of this embodiment, it may also be that, as Figure 29 shown, the current supply source 150 includes a capacitor 152 instead of the constant voltage source 151. Thus, by omitting the constant voltage source 151 / omitting the wiring between the constant voltage source 151 and the control system 800, the system can be miniaturized. In addition, for example, even when a failure occurs in the power supply of the vehicle 300 that constitutes the constant voltage source 151, etc., the open circuit system 900 can be operated.

[0248] In addition, since the third terminal 103 and the fourth terminal 104 of the switching system 100 are disconnected during normal times (when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930), the auxiliary circuit 920 is cut off. Therefore, during normal times (if natural discharge is ignored), the charge accumulated in the capacitor 152 is hardly consumed.

[0249] (1.3.11) 11th modification

[0250] As an 11th modification of this embodiment, it may also be that, as Figure 30 shown, the current supply source 150 includes a capacitor 152 instead of the constant voltage source 151.

[0251] In Figure 30 the open circuit system 900, a relay 153 is connected in series with the constant voltage source 151. The capacitor 152 is connected in parallel with the series circuit of the constant voltage source 151 and the relay 153. The relay 153 is controlled by, for example, the control circuit 207.

[0252] In this case, by periodically closing the relay 153, the charge consumed due to natural discharge can be replenished to the capacitor 152.

[0253] In addition, the current supply source 150 may connect the constant voltage source 151 and the capacitor 152 in parallel without using the relay 153.

[0254] (1.3.12) 12th modification

[0255] As a 12th modification of this embodiment, it may also be that, as Figure 31 shown, the current supply source 150 includes a transformer 154. The transformer 154 includes a primary winding 1541 and a secondary winding 1542.

[0256] The primary winding 1541 is connected between the second end 102 of the switching system 100 and the second end 802 of the control system 800. In other words, the primary winding 1541 is connected to the main circuit 930. The secondary winding 1542 is connected between the fourth end 104 of the switching system 100 and the fourth end 804 of the control system 800. In other words, the secondary winding 1542 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The secondary winding 1542 is electromagnetically coupled with the primary winding 1541. For example, the primary winding 1541 and the secondary winding 1542 are wound around the same iron core and are electromagnetically coupled.

[0257] When current flows through the primary winding 1541, the secondary winding 1542 is excited. Here, the transformer 154 of the present embodiment is configured such that when an abnormal current (a current having a current value equal to or greater than a specified value) flows through the primary winding 1541, a voltage capable of causing the secondary winding 1542 to output a starting current (a current having a current value equal to or greater than a preset value) is generated across the two ends of the secondary winding 1542.

[0258] In addition, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the switching system 100 operates using the abnormal current as a driving source to close the auxiliary circuit 920. In addition, when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the switching system 100 disconnects the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0259] In this modification, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the switching system 100 closes the auxiliary circuit 920 and causes a starting current (induced current) to flow from the secondary winding 1542 of the transformer 154 to the auxiliary circuit 920. Thereby, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the circuit breaker 910 can be activated to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0260] In addition, in this modification, when the current value of the current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving unit 2 of the switching system 100 is less than the above-mentioned specified value, the driven unit 1 is not driven, so the auxiliary circuit 920 is disconnected. Therefore, even if the secondary winding 1542 of the transformer 154 is excited by the current flowing through the main circuit 930 (primary winding 1541), no induced current is output from the secondary winding 1542, and thus no current flows through the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, it is possible to prevent current from flowing from the auxiliary circuit 920 to the circuit breaker 910 when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930.

[0261] (2) Embodiment 2

[0262] Refer to Figure 32 、 Figure 33 to describe the control system 800A and the circuit breaking system 900A of Embodiment 2. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those in Embodiment 1 (and its modifications), and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0263] The control system 800A of this embodiment includes a driven part 1 and a driving part 2. The driven part 1 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The driving part 2 includes an intermediate circuit 210 connected to the main circuit 930. The intermediate circuit 210 forms a part of the main circuit 930. The driven part 1 is driven by the driving part 2.

[0264] As Figure 32 shown, the control system 800A includes a first end 801A and a second end 802A connected to the main circuit 930. In addition, the control system 800A includes a third end 803A and a fourth end 804A connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. In other words, the driven part 1 is connected between the third end 803A and the fourth end 804A. The intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 is connected between the first end 801A and the second end 802A. When an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the control system 800A uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 as a driving source for driving the driven part 1. That is, in the control system 800A, the magnetic field generated by the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2 is energy-converted to generate an electromotive force for driving the driven part 1. Thereby, the control system 800A supplies a starting current to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0265] The connection relationship of the control system 800A in the opening system 900A is the same as that of the control system 800 in the opening system 900 of Embodiment 1, so the description is omitted.

[0266] More specifically, as Figure 33 shown, the control system 800A includes a transformer 154. The transformer 154 includes a primary winding 1541 and a secondary winding 1542. The driven part 1 includes the secondary winding 1542, and the driving part 2 includes the primary winding 1541.

[0267] The primary winding 1541 is connected between the first end 801A and the second end 802A of the control system 800A. In other words, the primary winding 1541 is connected to the main circuit 930. The primary winding 1541 forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit 210 of the driving part 2. The secondary winding 1542 is connected between the third end 803A and the fourth end 804A of the control system 800A. In other words, the secondary winding 1542 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The secondary winding 1542 is electromagnetically coupled to the primary winding 1541. For example, the primary winding 1541 and the secondary winding 1542 are wound around the same iron core and are electromagnetically coupled.

[0268] When current flows through the primary winding 1541, an induced current flows through the secondary winding 1542. As a result, an induced current flows through the auxiliary circuit 920. Here, when an abnormal current (a current with a value equal to or greater than a specified value) flows through the primary winding 1541, the transformer 154 of the present embodiment outputs a starting current (a current with a value equal to or greater than a preset value) from the secondary winding 1542.

[0269] According to the control system 800A of the present embodiment, when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930, the control system 800A drives the current flowing in the secondary winding 1542 by the abnormal current flowing through the primary winding 1541. That is, an induced current is generated in the secondary winding 1542. The control system 800A outputs the induced current flowing through the secondary winding 1542 as a starting current to supply the starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920. That is, the control system 800A uses the abnormal current flowing through the primary winding 1541 as a drive source for driving the current in the secondary winding 1542 to supply the starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920. As a result, the circuit breaker 910 operates, and thus the main circuit 930 is cut off. In the present embodiment, compared with the electrical circuit of Patent Document 1, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts (the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate).

[0270] (2.1) First Modified Example

[0271] As a first modified example of the present embodiment, it may be that, as Figure 34 shown, the control system 800A includes a semiconductor relay 72.

[0272] The semiconductor relay 72 includes a pair of input terminals 721 and a pair of output terminals 722. One of the pair of input terminals 721 of the semiconductor relay 72 is connected to the first end 801A of the control system 800A. The primary winding 1541 is connected between the other of the pair of input terminals 721 and the second end 802A of the control system 800A. One of the pair of output terminals 722 of the semiconductor relay 72 is connected to the third end 803A of the control system 800A. The secondary winding 1542 is connected between the other of the pair of output terminals 722 and the fourth end 804A of the control system 800A. As Figure 34 shown, the semiconductor relay 72 of the present embodiment is a transformer-coupled solid-state relay (transformer-coupled SSR).

[0273] The semiconductor relay 72 is turned on by an abnormal current flowing through the main circuit 930 (intermediate circuit 210). When the semiconductor relay 72 is turned on, the auxiliary circuit 920 is closed, and an induced current flows through the secondary winding 1542 due to the current flowing through the primary winding 1541 of the transformer 154. As a result, an induced current (starting current) flows through the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0274] As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, and the circuit breaker 910 operates to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0275] In this modification, by means of the semiconductor relay 72, it is possible to prevent current from flowing from the auxiliary circuit 920 to the circuit breaker 910 when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit 930.

[0276] (2.2) Second modification

[0277] As a second modification of this embodiment, it may be that, as shown in A of Figure 35 , the control system 800A includes a current control element (bidirectional Zener diode 73).

[0278] The first end of the bidirectional Zener diode 73 is connected to the fourth end 804A of the control system 800A, and the secondary winding 1542 of the transformer 154 is connected between the second end of the bidirectional Zener diode 73 and the third end 803A of the control system 800A. In other words, the bidirectional Zener diode 73 is connected to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0279] The breakdown voltage of the bidirectional Zener diode 73 is set to be approximately the same as the voltage generated by the secondary winding 1542 when an abnormal current flows through the primary winding 1541.

[0280] According to this modification, when the current flowing through the primary winding 1541 (intermediate circuit 210) is less than the specified value, the voltage generated by the secondary winding 1542 is less than the breakdown voltage of the bidirectional Zener diode 73, so no current flows through the auxiliary circuit 920. That is, the bidirectional Zener diode 73 prevents current with a value below the preset value from flowing into the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0281] On the other hand, when an abnormal current greater than the specified value flows through the primary winding 1541, the voltage generated by the secondary winding 1542 is greater than the breakdown voltage of the bidirectional Zener diode 73, and a current (starting current with a value above the preset value) flows through the auxiliary circuit 920. As a result, a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the heating element of the circuit breaker 910, and the circuit breaker 910 operates to cut off the main circuit 930.

[0282] In this modification example, even when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the current can be prevented from flowing from the auxiliary circuit 920 to the circuit breaker 910 by the bi-directional Zener diode 73.

[0283] In addition, the current control element is not limited to the Zener diode 73, and for example, it can also be a thyristor.

[0284] Or, as Figure 35 shown in B of, the control system 800A may also include a current control circuit 74 for preventing a current having a value smaller than a preset value (a current having a value smaller than the starting current) from flowing into the auxiliary circuit 920. The current control circuit 74 includes a switch 741, voltage dividing resistors 742, 743, a comparator 744, a constant voltage source 745, and a diode 746. The switch 741 is an enhancement-mode n-channel MOSFET. The drain of the switch 741 is connected to the third terminal 803A of the control system 800A, the source is connected to one end of the secondary winding 1542, and the gate is connected to the output terminal of the comparator 744. The voltage dividing resistors 742, 743 are connected in series between the fourth terminal 804A of the control system 800A and the ground. The non-inverting input terminal of the comparator 744 is connected to the connection point of the voltage dividing resistors 742, 743, and the inverting input terminal is connected to the ground via the constant voltage source 745. The anode of the diode 746 is connected to the other end of the secondary winding 1542, and the cathode is connected to the fourth terminal 804A of the control system 800A. In addition, the connection point between the source of the switch 741 and the secondary winding 1542 is connected to the ground.

[0285] In the current control circuit 74, when the voltage generated across the secondary winding 1542 is less than a preset threshold voltage, specifically, when the voltage obtained by dividing the voltage generated across the secondary winding 1542 by the voltage dividing resistors 742, 743 is less than the voltage of the constant voltage source 745, the switch 741 is turned off and no current flows through the auxiliary circuit 920. On the other hand, when the voltage generated across the secondary winding 1542 is greater than the preset threshold voltage, the switch 741 is turned on and a current (starting current) flows through the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0286] In this example, even when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the current can be prevented from flowing from the auxiliary circuit 920 to the circuit breaker 910 by the current control circuit 74.

[0287] (2.3) The 3rd modification example

[0288] As the 3rd modification example of this embodiment, it is also possible that the control system 800A supplies a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920 according to a sharp change in the current flowing in the main circuit 930.

[0289] In one example, as Figure 36 shown, the drive unit 2 of the control system 800A includes: an iron core 700 through which an intermediate circuit 210 forming part of the main circuit 930 passes; a primary winding 701 wound around the iron core 700; and a current supply source 702 that supplies a stable current to the primary winding 701. The driven unit 1 includes a secondary winding 703 wound around the iron core 700.

[0290] In this modified example, the iron core 700 is magnetically saturated by the magnetic flux generated by the stable current supplied from the current supply source 702 to the primary winding 701. In this state, when an abnormal current flows through the intermediate circuit 210, the current flowing through the intermediate circuit 210 changes sharply. As a result, the magnetic flux passing through the iron core 700 (the magnetic flux passing through the secondary winding 703) changes, and a current flows through the secondary winding 703, thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0291] In addition, the control system 800A of this modified example can also be used as the drive unit 2 of the switch system 100 in Embodiment 1 and its modified examples. For example, in Modified Example 1 of Embodiment 1 (refer to Figure 3 , Figure 4 ), the two ends of the secondary winding 703 can be respectively connected to the first end 101 and the second end 102. Moreover, when a current flows through the secondary winding 703, the drive unit 2 can operate to drive the driven unit 1 (close the contact device 11).

[0292] (3) Embodiment 3

[0293] Refer to Figure 37 to describe the control system 800B and the disconnection system 900B of Embodiment 3. In addition, the same reference numerals are given to the same structures as those in Embodiment 1, Embodiment 2 (and their modified examples), and the description is appropriately omitted.

[0294] The control system 800B of this embodiment includes a first control system 810 and a second control system 820. The first control system 810 includes a first drive unit 2A and a first driven unit 1A. The second control system 820 includes a second drive unit 2B and a second driven unit 1B. The first drive unit 2A and the first driven unit 1A, and the second drive unit 2B and the second driven unit 1B respectively correspond to the drive unit 2 and the driven unit 1 described in Embodiment 1, 2 and their modified examples.

[0295] As Figure 37As shown, the first control system 810 has a first end 811 and a second end 812 connected to the main circuit 930. The first control system 810 has a third end 813 and a fourth end 814 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920. The second control system 820 has a first end 821 and a second end 822 connected to the main circuit 930. The second control system 820 has a third end 823 and a fourth end 824 connected to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0296] The first end 821 of the second control system 820 is connected to the first end 901 of the disconnection system 900B, the second end 822 of the second control system 820 is connected to the first end 811 of the first control system 810, and the second end 812 of the first control system 810 is connected to the first end 911 of the circuit breaker 910. That is to say, the first control system 810 and the second control system 820 (specifically, the first driving part 2A and the second driving part 2B) are connected to the main circuit 930 (the conductor 916 of the circuit breaker 910) in series.

[0297] The third end 813 of the first control system 810 and the third end 823 of the second control system 820 are connected to the fourth end 914 of the circuit breaker 910. The fourth end 814 of the first control system 810 and the fourth end 824 of the second control system 820 are connected to the third end 913 of the circuit breaker 910.

[0298] The driven part 1 (the first driven part 1A) of the first control system 810 is connected between the third end 813 and the fourth end 814. The intermediate circuit 210 (the first intermediate circuit) of the driving part 2 (the first driving part 2A) of the first control system 810 is connected between the first end 811 and the second end 812. When an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the first control system 810 uses the abnormal current flowing through the first intermediate circuit 210 as a driving source for driving the first driven part 1A. Thus, the first control system 810 supplies a starting current to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0299] The driven part 1 (the second driven part 1B) of the second control system 820 is connected between the third end 823 and the fourth end 824. The intermediate circuit (the second intermediate circuit 210B) of the driving part 2 (the second driving part 2B) of the second control system 820 is connected between the first end 821 and the second end 822. When an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930, the second control system 820 uses the abnormal current flowing through the second intermediate circuit 210B as a driving source for driving the second driven part 1B. Thus, the second control system 820 supplies a starting current to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0300] In the control system 800B according to this embodiment, as long as the driving unit 2 of either the first control system 810 or the second control system 820 drives the corresponding driven unit 1, a starting current is supplied to the circuit breaker 910 via the auxiliary circuit 920. Therefore, for example, even if one of the first control system 810 and the second control system 820 fails to operate due to a fault or the like, the starting current can be supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920 by the other of the first control system 810 and the second control system 820. Thus, it is possible to more reliably avoid the situation where the starting current is not supplied to the auxiliary circuit 920 when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit 930.

[0301] In addition, here it is assumed that the first control system 810 is the control system 800 of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1 (a control system in which the driven unit 1 includes the contact device 51 and the signal inversion circuit 52). Further, it is assumed that the second control system 820 is the control system 800A of Embodiment 2 (a control system in which the driving unit 2 includes the primary winding 1541 and the driven unit 1 includes the secondary winding 1542). In this way, if the driven units 1 of the first control system 810 and the second control system 820 have different structures (mechanisms), the characteristics of each other can be complementary. For example, the control system 800 of the fourth modification of Embodiment 1 has the following characteristics: if the current value of the current is equal to or greater than a specified value, it operates with high reliability, but the operation takes a little time. On the other hand, the control system 800A of Embodiment 2 has the following characteristics: if the current value of the abnormal current is not large, it is not easy to operate (the specified value for determining the abnormal current is large), but the operation time is short. In this embodiment, by combining these two systems, for abnormal currents with a wide range of current values, the circuit breaker 910 can be driven with a short operation time.

[0302] In addition, in the control system 800B of this embodiment, it may also be that, as Figure 38 shown, the first end 821 and the second end 822 of the second control system 820 are connected to a bypass circuit 940 connected in parallel with the main circuit 930. In this case, when an abnormal current flows in the second intermediate circuit 210B that forms a part of the bypass circuit 940 connected to the main circuit 930, the second driving unit 2B of the second control system 820 drives the second driven unit 1B. In addition, in Figure 38 the example, the bypass circuit 940 is connected in parallel with a series circuit of the circuit breaker 910 (between the first end 911 and the second end 912) and the first control system 810 (between the first end 811 and the second end 812), but it is not limited thereto. The bypass circuit 940 may be connected only in parallel with the circuit breaker 910, or may be connected only in parallel with the first control system 810.

[0303] In addition, the control system 800B may further include a control system having a driving unit 2 and a driven unit 1, in addition to the first control system 810 and the second control system 820.

[0304] That is, in the control system 800B of the present embodiment, the driving unit 2 includes a plurality of driving units 2 (first driving unit 2A, second driving unit 2B). Each of the plurality of driving units 2 has an intermediate circuit (210, 210B) connected to the main circuit 930. In addition, the driven unit 1 includes a plurality of driven units 1 (first driven unit 1A, second driven unit 1B) corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of driving units 2 (first driving unit 2A, second driving unit 2B). When an abnormal current flows through the corresponding intermediate circuit 210 in each of the plurality of driving units 2, the abnormal current is used as a driving source for driving the corresponding driven unit 1. The driven unit 1 is driven by the corresponding driving unit 2, thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit 920.

[0305] (4) Embodiment 4

[0306] Refer to Figure 39 to describe the control system 800C and the disconnection system 900C of Embodiment 4.

[0307] The circuit breaker 910 in the disconnection system 900C of the present embodiment is a pyro-fuse. As Figure 39 shown, the circuit breaker 910 includes a pyro-actuator 95 including a gas generator 915, a first fixed terminal 961 including a fixed contact F1, a second fixed terminal 962 including a fixed contact F2, and a movable contact 963 including two movable contacts M1, M2. The circuit breaker 910 further includes a holding portion 964, a housing 965, and a yoke 966.

[0308] A part of the first fixed terminal 961, a part of the second fixed terminal 962, the movable contact 963, and the holding portion 964 are disposed inside the housing 965. The pyro-actuator 95 is held in such a manner as to pass through the inside of a through hole formed in the upper surface of the housing 965.

[0309] The first fixed terminal 961 and the second fixed terminal 962 each have conductivity and are formed integrally with the housing 965, for example, by injection molding. A part of each of the first fixed terminal 961 and the second fixed terminal 962 is exposed outside the housing 965, and the other parts are disposed inside the housing 965. A part of the first fixed terminal 961 and the second fixed terminal 962 disposed inside the housing 965 functions as fixed contacts F1 and F2, respectively. The part of the first fixed terminal 961 disposed outside the housing 965 is connected to the first end 901 of the disconnection system 900C. The part of the second fixed terminal 962 disposed outside the housing 965 is connected to the second end 902 of the disconnection system 900C.

[0310] The movable contact 963 is a plate-shaped member having conductivity. The movable contact 963 has movable contacts M1 and M2 that respectively contact the fixed contacts F1 and F2. The movable contact 963 is held by a holding portion 964 (here, a spiral spring) in a state where the movable contacts M1 and M2 are respectively connected to the fixed contacts F1 and F2. The first fixed terminal 961 and the second fixed terminal 962 are short-circuited via the movable contact 963.

[0311] The high-temperature actuator 95 includes a gas generator 915, a pressure chamber 951, and a piston (actuating pin) 952. The gas generator 915 includes two pin electrodes 9151, a heating element 9152, and a fuel (gunpowder) such as nitrocellulose. The heating element 9152 is, for example, a nickel-chromium alloy wire. The heating element 9152 generates heat when an electric current flows through it. The heating element 9152 is connected to one end of each of the two pin electrodes 9151. The two pin electrodes 9151 are respectively connected to the terminals 923 and 924.

[0312] When an electric current flows between the terminals 923 and 924, the electric current flows through the heating element 9152, and the heating element 9152 generates heat. The fuel of the gas generator 915 is ignited by the heat generated by the heating element 9152, and the fuel burns, whereby the gas generator 915 generates gas. The gas generated by the gas generator 915 is introduced into the pressure chamber 951, and the pressure in the pressure chamber 951 rises.

[0313] A portion near the first end ( Figure 39 the upper end) of the piston 952 constitutes a part of the outer wall of the pressure chamber 951. The first end of the piston 952 is pressed by the pressure of the gas in the pressure chamber 951 to move the piston 952. Then, the piston 952 presses the movable contact 963 at the second end ( Figure 39 the lower end). Thus, the piston 952 provides a force (a force Figure 39 downward) in a direction that causes the movable contact 963 to move away from the two fixed contacts F1 and F2 to move the movable contact 963.

[0314] The movable contact 963 is pressed by the piston 952 to move. As a result, while the holding portion 964 is compressed, the movable contact M1 separates from the fixed contact F1 and the movable contact M2 separates from the fixed contact F2. Thereby, the first fixed terminal 961 and the second fixed terminal 962 are cut off from each other, and thus the main circuit 930 is cut off.

[0315] As Figure 39 shown, the circuit breaker 910 further includes an auxiliary fixed contact 971 (first contact) and an auxiliary movable contact 981 (second contact). The auxiliary movable contact 981 is disposed on a yoke 966 mounted on one surface ( Figure 39 the lower surface) of the movable contact 963 and moves together with the movable contact 963. The pair of auxiliary movable contacts 981 are electrically connected via a conductor disposed within the yoke 966.

[0316] Each auxiliary fixed contact 971 is arranged to face the corresponding auxiliary movable contact 981. One auxiliary fixed contact 971 is connected to the terminal 921, and the other auxiliary fixed contact 971 is connected to the terminal 922. Here, the terminal 921 is connected to the terminal 923 via the current supply source 150 and the auxiliary circuit 920, and the terminal 922 is directly connected to the terminal 924.

[0317] In the interruption system 900C of the present embodiment, when an abnormal current flows through the movable contact 963 connected to the main circuit 930, an electromagnetic repulsive force is generated between the fixed contact F1 and the movable contact M1. The movable contact 963 moves downward by this electromagnetic repulsive force, so that the pair of auxiliary movable contacts 981 respectively come into contact with the auxiliary fixed contacts 971. As a result, the pair of auxiliary fixed contacts 971 are electrically connected via the conductor within the yoke 966, and a starting current is supplied from the current supply source 150 to the gas generator 915 via the auxiliary circuit 920. Figure 39 Namely, in the interruption system 900C of the present embodiment, the movable contact 963 constitutes the intermediate circuit 210 of the drive unit 2, and the contact device including the auxiliary movable contact 981 and the auxiliary fixed contact 971 constitutes the driven unit 1.

[0318] In the interruption system 900C of the present embodiment, it is also possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker 910 starts to operate with a simple structure.

[0319] In addition, as

[0320] shown, the auxiliary fixed contact 971 and the auxiliary movable contact 981 may be configured as b contacts. Figure 40

[0321] (5) Other modification examples

[0322] ​The uses of the open - circuit systems 900, 900A, 900B, and 900C are not limited to being used in the vehicle 300. The open - circuit systems 900, 900A can be used for the purpose of cutting off any electrical circuit that may carry a large current such as a short - circuit current.

[0323] The structures of Embodiment 1 (including variations), Embodiment 2 (including variations), Embodiment 3, and Embodiment 4 can be appropriately combined and applied.

[0324] (6) Method

[0325] As is clearly understood from the above - described embodiments and variations, the control systems (800, 800A, 800B, 800C) of the first method are control systems that control the circuit breaker (910). The circuit breaker (910) is activated by a starting current that flows through the auxiliary circuit (920) and has a current value equal to or greater than a preset value, and then cuts off the main circuit (930). The control systems (800, 800A, 800B, 800C) include a driving part (2) and a driven part (1). The driving part (2) includes an intermediate circuit (210) connected to the main circuit (930). The driven part (1) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). When an abnormal current with a current value equal to or greater than a specified value flows through the intermediate circuit (210), the driving part (2) uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210) as a driving source to drive the driven part (1). The driven part (1) is driven by the driving part (2), thereby supplying a starting current to the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0326] The control systems (800, 800A, 800B, 800C) of the first method operate when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit (930) to supply a starting current to the auxiliary circuit (920). When the starting current is supplied to the auxiliary circuit (920), the circuit breaker (910) cuts off the main circuit (930). Thus, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate when an abnormal current flows through the main circuit (930).

[0327] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B, 800C) of the second method, in the first method, the auxiliary circuit (920) is connected to a current supply source (150) that supplies a starting current. The driven part (1) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920) in series with the current supply source (150), and the driven part (1) is driven by the driving part (2), thereby closing the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0328] According to the second method, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit (930).

[0329] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the third mode, in the second mode, the driven part (1) is provided with a contact device (11). The contact device (11) is provided with a first contact (fixed contacts 111, auxiliary fixed contact 421, fixed contact 511) and a second contact (movable contact 112, auxiliary movable contact 422, movable contact 512) connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The second contact can move between a closed position where the second contact contacts the first contact and an open position where the second contact separates from the first contact. The driving part (2) moves the second contact from the open position to the closed position by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210).

[0330] According to the third mode, since the driven part (1) is disconnected and closed by moving the second contact (movable contact 112) spatially (physically), the reliability is improved. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing to the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows through the intermediate circuit (210). Furthermore, the first contact may not necessarily be fixed in position on a housing or the like. That is, the first contact may not be a fixed contact.

[0331] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the fourth mode, in the third mode, the driving part (2) is provided with an exciting coil (211) and a movable member (212). The exciting coil (211) forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The movable member (212) moves from a first position to a second position by an abnormal current flowing through the exciting coil (211). The second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) moves as the movable member (212) moves. When the movable member (212) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the open position, and when the movable member (212) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the closed position.

[0332] According to the fourth mode, it is possible to achieve shortening of the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing to the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows through the main circuit (930).

[0333] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the fifth mode, in the third mode, the drive unit (2) includes a first yoke (221) and a second yoke (222). The first yoke (221) is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member (105) that constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The second yoke (222) is arranged facing the first yoke (221). When an abnormal current flows through the wiring member (105), the second yoke (222) is attracted by the first yoke (221) and moves from the first position to the second position. The second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) moves as the second yoke (222) moves. When the second yoke (222) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the open position, and when the second yoke (222) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the closed position.

[0334] According to the fifth mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0335] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the sixth mode, in the third mode, the drive unit (2) includes a bimetal plate (231). The bimetal plate (231) deforms from the first shape to the second shape by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210). The second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) moves as the bimetal plate (231) deforms. When the bimetal plate (231) is in the first shape, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the open position, and when the bimetal plate (231) is in the second shape, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the closed position.

[0336] According to the sixth mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0337] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the seventh mode, in the third mode, the drive unit (2) includes a main contact device (41). The main contact device (41) includes a main fixed contact (411) and a movable contact (400). The movable contact (400) forms an intermediate circuit (210). A main movable contact (412) that contacts and separates from the main fixed contact (411) is provided in the movable contact (400). The main contact device (41) moves the second contact (auxiliary movable contact 422) of the contact device (11) from the open position to the closed position by the electromagnetic repulsion generated by the abnormal current flowing through the movable contact (400).

[0338] According to the seventh mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0339] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the eighth mode, in the third mode, the drive unit (2) includes a main contact device (61) and a movable member (first movable member 622). The main contact device (61) includes a main fixed contact (611) and a main movable contact (612) that contacts and separates from the main fixed contact (611). The main contact device (61) forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The movable member (first movable member 622) moves as the main movable contact (612) moves. The movable member (first movable member 622) moves from the first position to the second position by the abnormal current flowing through the main contact device (61). The second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) moves as the movable member (first movable member 622) moves. When the movable member (first movable member 622) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the open position, and when the movable member (first movable member 622) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (11) is in the closed position.

[0340] According to the eighth mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0341] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the ninth mode, in the second mode, the driven part (1) includes a contact device (51) and a signal inversion circuit (52). The contact device (51) includes a first contact (fixed contact 511) and a second contact (movable contact 512) connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The second contact can move between a closed position where the second contact touches the first contact and an open position where the second contact leaves the first contact. The driving part (2) moves the second contact from the closed position to the open position by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210). When the second contact is in the closed position, the signal inversion circuit (52) does not supply a starting current to the auxiliary circuit (920). When the second contact is in the open position, the signal inversion circuit (52) supplies a starting current to the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0342] According to the ninth mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing to the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). Further, even when an abnormal current flows through the intermediate circuit (210) and the driven part 1 (contact device 51) is driven by the driving part (2), it is possible to suppress bouncing at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0343] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the tenth mode, in the ninth mode, the driving part (2) includes an exciting coil (211) and a movable member (212). The exciting coil (211) forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The movable member (212) moves from a first position to a second position by an abnormal current flowing through the exciting coil (211). The second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) moves as the movable member (212) moves. When the movable member (212) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the closed position, and when the movable member (212) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the open position.

[0344] According to the tenth mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing to the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). Further, it is possible to suppress bouncing at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0345] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 11th mode, in the 9th mode, the drive unit (2) includes a first yoke (221) and a second yoke (222). The first yoke (221) is relatively fixed with respect to the wiring member (105) that constitutes at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The second yoke (222) is arranged facing the first yoke (221). When an abnormal current flows through the wiring member (105), the second yoke (222) is attracted by the first yoke (221) and moves from the first position to the second position. The second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) moves as the second yoke (222) moves. When the second yoke (222) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the closed position, and when the second yoke (222) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the open position.

[0346] According to the 11th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). In addition, it is possible to suppress bouncing at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0347] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 12th mode, in the 9th mode, the drive unit (2) includes a bimetal plate (231). The bimetal plate (231) deforms from the first shape to the second shape due to the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210). The second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) moves as the bimetal plate (231) deforms. When the bimetal plate (231) is in the first shape, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the closed position, and when the bimetal plate (231) is in the second shape, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the open position.

[0348] According to the 12th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). In addition, it is possible to suppress bouncing at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0349] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 13th mode, in the 9th mode, the drive unit (2) includes a main contact device (41). The main contact device (41) includes a main fixed contact (411) and a movable contact (400). The movable contact (400) forms an intermediate circuit (210). The movable contact (400) is provided with a main movable contact (412) that contacts and separates from the main fixed contact (411). The main contact device (41) moves the second contact (auxiliary movable contact 422) of the contact device (11) from the closed position to the open position by the electromagnetic repulsion generated by the abnormal current flowing through the movable contact (400).

[0350] According to the 13th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). In addition, it is possible to suppress bounce at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0351] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 14th mode, in the 9th mode, the drive unit (2) includes a main contact device (61) and a movable member (first movable member 622). The main contact device (61) includes a main fixed contact (611) and a main movable contact (612) that contacts and separates from the main fixed contact (611). The main contact device (61) forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The movable member (first movable member 622) moves as the main movable contact (612) moves. The movable member (first movable member 622) moves from the first position to the second position by the abnormal current flowing through the main contact device (61). The second contact (movable contact 112) of the contact device (51) moves as the movable member (first movable member 622) moves. When the movable member (first movable member 622) is in the first position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the closed position, and when the movable member (first movable member 622) is in the second position, the second contact (movable contact 512) of the contact device (51) is in the open position.

[0352] According to the 14th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure. In addition, it is possible to prevent current from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930). In addition, it is possible to suppress bounce at the driven part (1) (contact device 51).

[0353] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 15th mode, in any one of the 3rd to 14th modes, the driven part (1) has, in addition to the first contact devices (11, 51) as contact devices (11, 51), a second contact device (13). The first contact devices (11, 51) have first fixed contacts (111, 511) as first contacts (fixed contacts 111, 511) and first movable contacts (112, 512) as second contacts (movable contacts 112, 512). The second contact device (13) has a second fixed contact (131) and a second movable contact (132). The second fixed contact (131) and the second movable contact (132) are connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The second movable contact (132) can move between a closed position where the second movable contact (132) contacts the second fixed contact (131) and an open position where the second movable contact (132) separates from the second fixed contact (131). The direction in which the first movable contacts (112, 512) move is different from the direction in which the second movable contact (132) moves.

[0354] According to the 15th mode, it is possible to reduce the possibility that a starting current unnecessarily flows in the auxiliary circuit (920) due to an impact or the like.

[0355] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 16th mode, in the 2nd mode, the driven part (1) has a semiconductor relay (12) connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The driving part (2) has a first winding (241) forming at least a part of an intermediate circuit (210) and a second winding (242) electromagnetically coupled to the first winding (241). The semiconductor relay (12) is driven by an induced current, which is a current generated in the second winding (242) due to an abnormal current flowing through the first winding (241), to close the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0356] According to the 16th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts to operate with a simple structure.

[0357] Regarding the control system (800, 800B) of the seventeenth aspect, in any one of the second to sixteenth aspects, in addition to the first opening and closing part (1) as the driven part (1), a second opening and closing part (3) and a third opening and closing part (4) are further provided. The second opening and closing part (3) is connected in series with the first opening and closing part (1) in the auxiliary circuit (920) and is used to open and close the auxiliary circuit (920). The third opening and closing part (4) is connected to the main circuit (930) and is used to open and close the main circuit (930). The second opening and closing part (3) opens and closes the auxiliary circuit (920) in a manner linked to the opening and closing of the main circuit (930) by the third opening and closing part (4). When the third opening and closing part (4) closes the main circuit (930), the second opening and closing part (3) closes the auxiliary circuit (920), and when the third opening and closing part (4) opens the main circuit (930), the second opening and closing part (3) opens the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0358] According to the seventeenth aspect, the possibility of the starting current flowing unnecessarily in the auxiliary circuit (920) can be reduced.

[0359] The control system (800, 800B) of the eighteenth aspect is, in any one of the second to seventeenth aspects, further comprising a current supply source (150).

[0360] According to the eighteenth aspect, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0361] Regarding the control system (800, 800B) of the nineteenth aspect, in any one of the second to eighteenth aspects, the current supply source (150) includes a constant voltage source (151) that outputs a preset voltage.

[0362] According to the nineteenth aspect, when the auxiliary circuit (920) is closed, a starting current can be stably supplied from the constant voltage source (151) to the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0363] Regarding the control system (800, 800B) of the 20th aspect, in any one of the 2nd to 19th aspects, the current supply source (150) includes a transformer (154). The transformer (154) includes a primary winding (1541) and a secondary winding (1542). The primary winding (1541) is connected to the main circuit (930). The secondary winding (1542) is electromagnetically coupled to the primary winding (1541). The secondary winding (1542) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The current supply source (150) supplies a starting current from the secondary winding (1542) in response to an abnormal current flowing through the primary winding (1541).

[0364] According to the 20th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0365] Regarding the control systems (800, 800B) of the 21st mode, in any of the 2nd to 20th modes, the current supply source (150) includes a capacitor (152).

[0366] According to the 21st mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0367] Regarding the control systems (800A, 800B) of the 22nd mode, in the 1st mode, the driving part (2) includes a primary winding (1541). The primary winding (1541) forms at least a part of the intermediate circuit (210). The driven part (1) includes a secondary winding (1542). The secondary winding (1542) is electromagnetically coupled with the primary winding (1541). The secondary winding (1542) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The control system (800A) supplies a starting current from the secondary winding (1542) through an abnormal current flowing through the primary winding (1541).

[0368] According to the 22nd mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0369] Regarding the control systems (800, 800A, 800B) of the 23rd mode, in the 1st mode, the driving part (2) includes an iron core (700), a primary winding (701), and a current supply source (702). The intermediate circuit (210) passes through the iron core (700). The primary winding (701) is wound around the iron core (700). The current supply source (702) supplies current to the primary winding (701). The driven part (1) includes a secondary winding (703) wound around the iron core (700).

[0370] According to the 23rd mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0371] Regarding the control systems (800A, 800B) of the 24th mode, in the 22nd or 23rd mode, it further includes a semiconductor relay (72). The semiconductor relay (72) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920) and is used to open and close the auxiliary circuit (920). The semiconductor relay (72) uses the abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210) as a driving source to close the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0372] According to the 24th mode, it is possible to prevent current (induced current from the secondary winding 1542) from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0373] Regarding the control systems (800A, 800B) of the 25th mode, in any of the 22nd to 24th modes, a current control element (Zener diode 73) or a current control circuit (74) connected to the auxiliary circuit (920) is further provided. The current control element (Zener diode 73) or the current control circuit (74) prevents a current having a current value smaller than the preset value from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0374] According to the 25th mode, it is possible to prevent a current (induced current from the secondary winding 1542) from flowing into the auxiliary circuit (920) when no abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0375] Regarding the control system (800B) of the 26th mode, in any of the 1st to 25th modes, in addition to having a first driving part (2A) as the driving part (2), a second driving part (2B) is further provided, and in addition to having a first driven part (1A) as the driven part (1), a second driven part (1B) is further provided. The second driving part (2B) includes a second intermediate circuit (210B) connected to the main circuit (930). The second driven part (1B) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). When an abnormal current flows through the second intermediate circuit (210B), the second driving part (2B) uses the abnormal current as a driving source for driving the second driven part (1B). The second driven part (1B) is driven by the second driving part (2B), and thereby a starting current is supplied to the auxiliary circuit (920).

[0376] According to the 26th mode, when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930), the circuit breaker (910) can be made to operate more reliably than in the case of having only one of the first driven part and the second driven part.

[0377] Regarding the control system (800B) of the 27th mode, in the 26th mode, the first driven part (1A) includes a contact device (51) and a signal inversion circuit (52). The contact device (51) includes a first contact (fixed contact 511) and a second contact (movable contact 512) connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The second contact can move between a closed position where the second contact touches the first contact and an open position where the second contact leaves the first contact. The first driving part (2A) moves the second contact from the closed position to the open position by an abnormal current flowing through the intermediate circuit (210). When the second contact is in the closed position, the signal inversion circuit (52) prevents the start-up current from being supplied to the auxiliary circuit (920). When the second contact is in the open position, the signal inversion circuit (52) supplies the start-up current to the auxiliary circuit (920). The second driving part (2B) includes a primary winding (1541). The primary winding (1541) forms at least a part of the second intermediate circuit (210B). The second driven part (1B) includes a secondary winding (1542). The secondary winding (1542) is electromagnetically coupled with the primary winding (1541). The secondary winding (1542) is connected to the auxiliary circuit (920). The start-up current is supplied to the auxiliary circuit (920) from the secondary winding (1542) by an abnormal current flowing through the primary winding (1541).

[0378] According to the control system (800B) of the 27th mode, when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930), the circuit breaker (910) can be made to operate more reliably.

[0379] Regarding the control system (800C) of the 28th mode, in the 1st or 2nd mode, the circuit breaker (910) includes a movable contact (963), a fixed terminal (961), a holding part (964), an auxiliary movable contact (971), and an auxiliary fixed contact (981). The movable contact (963) forms the intermediate circuit (210) of the driving part (2). The fixed terminal (961) contacts the movable contact (963). The holding part (964) provides a holding force for holding the movable contact (963) in a state of contacting the fixed terminal (961). The auxiliary movable contact (981) moves in response to the movement of the movable contact (963). The auxiliary fixed contact (971) faces the auxiliary movable contact (981). The movable contact (963) moves from the first position to the second position against the holding force by the electromagnetic repulsion generated by an abnormal current flowing through the movable contact (963). One of the first position and the second position is the position where the auxiliary movable contact (981) leaves the auxiliary fixed contact (971), and the other of the first position and the second position is the position where the auxiliary movable contact (981) contacts the auxiliary fixed contact (971).

[0380] According to the control system (800C) of the 28th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating with a simple structure.

[0381] The circuit breaker system (900, 900A, 900B, 900C) of the 29th mode includes the control system (800, 800A, 800B, 800C) of any one of the 1st to 28th modes and a circuit breaker (910).

[0382] According to the 29th mode, it is possible to shorten the time until the circuit breaker (910) starts operating when an abnormal current flows in the main circuit (930).

[0383] Regarding the structures of the 2nd to 28th modes, they are not essential structures of the control system (800, 800A, 800B, 800C) and can be appropriately omitted.

[0384] Explanation of Reference Signs

[0385] 105: Wiring component; 1: Driven part, first make-break part; 11: Contact device, first contact device; 111: Fixed contact, first fixed contact (first contact); 112: Movable contact, first movable contact (second contact); 12: Semiconductor relay; 13: Second contact device; 131: Second fixed contact; 132: Second movable contact; 1A: First driven part; 1B: Second driven part; 2: Driving part; 210: Intermediate circuit; 211: Excitation coil; 212: Movable part; 221: First yoke; 222: Second yoke; 231: Bimetal plate; 241: First winding; 242: Second winding; 3: Second make-break part; 4: Third make-break part; 2A: First driving part; 2B: Second driving part; 210B: Intermediate circuit; 150: Current supply source; 151: Constant voltage source; 152: Capacitor; 154: Transformer; 1541: Primary winding; 1542: Secondary winding; 400: Movable contact; 41: Main contact device; 411: Main fixed contact; 412: Main movable contact; 421: Auxiliary fixed contact; 422: Auxiliary movable contact; 51: Contact device; 511: Fixed contact; 512: Movable contact; 52: Signal inversion circuit; 61: Main contact device; 611: Main fixed contact; 612: Main movable contact; 622: First movable part (movable part); 700: Iron core; 701: Primary winding; 702: Current supply source; 703: Secondary winding; 72: Semiconductor relay; 73: Bidirectional Zener diode (current control element); 800, 800A, 800B, 800C: Control system; 900, 900A, 900B, 900C: Open circuit system; 910: Circuit breaker; 920: Auxiliary circuit; 930: Main circuit; 961: Fixed terminal; 963: Movable contact; 964: Holding part; 971: Auxiliary movable contact; 981: Auxiliary fixed contact.

Claims

1. An open circuit system comprising: A first coil; A circuit breaker electrically connected to the first coil; and A switch, wherein The circuit breaker has: A first terminal electrically connected to the main circuit; A second terminal electrically connected to the first terminal; A third terminal electrically independent of the first terminal and the second terminal; A heating element electrically connected to the third terminal; And Gunpowder that is burned by the heating element to generate gas for cutting off the electrical connection between the first terminal and the second terminal, The first coil is electrically connected to the heating element via the third terminal, When an abnormal current flows between the first terminal and the second terminal, the first coil generates electricity due to the abnormal current flowing through the main circuit, The switch is electrically connected to the first coil and electrically connected to the third terminal, When the abnormal current does not flow in the main circuit, the switch is open, When the abnormal current flows in the main circuit, the switch is closed to supply the electricity generated in the first coil to the heating element, The heating element supplied with the electricity burns the gunpowder.

2. The open circuit system according to claim 1, wherein The switch comprises a semiconductor relay.

3. The open circuit system according to claim 2, wherein When the electricity generated in the first coil is at a voltage above the level that enables the heating element to burn the gunpowder, the semiconductor relay supplies the electricity generated in the first coil to the heating element.

4. The open circuit system according to claim 1, wherein The switch comprises a current control element.

5. The open circuit system according to claim 4, wherein The current control element includes a Zener diode or a thyristor, When the voltage of the electricity generated in the first coil is greater than the breakdown voltage of the Zener diode or the thyristor, the electricity generated in the first coil is supplied to the heating element.

6. The open circuit system according to claim 5, wherein The breakdown voltage of the Zener diode or the thyristor is above the voltage level that enables the heating element to burn the gunpowder.

7. The open circuit system according to claim 1, wherein When the voltage generated across the first coil is less than the threshold voltage, the switch is open, and when the voltage generated across the first coil is greater than the threshold voltage, the switch is closed.

8. The open circuit system according to claim 7, wherein The threshold voltage is the voltage generated across the first coil when the abnormal current flows, and is above the voltage level that enables the heating element to burn the gunpowder.

9. The open circuit system according to claim 1, wherein It further comprises a second coil, the second coil is electrically connected to the first terminal and magnetically coupled to the first coil, The first coil generates an induced current due to the abnormal current flowing through the second coil, thereby generating the electricity for burning the gunpowder.

10. The open circuit system according to claim 9, wherein It also includes an iron core, and the first coil and the second coil are disposed on the iron core.

11. The open circuit system according to claim 1, wherein, it also includes an iron core, and the first coil is disposed on the iron core.

12. The open circuit system according to claim 11, wherein, the iron core is formed in a ring shape, and the abnormal current passes through the inside of the ring.

13. The open circuit system according to claim 12, wherein, it also includes a second coil, and the second coil is disposed on the iron core.

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