Hybrid power supply bus, bus board and power supply system

Abstract

The invention provides a module (300, 400) for backside connection to at least one power bus (100; 100 '; the invention relates to a busbar plate (200) for a module (300, 400) having a busbar plate (100, 100 ', 100' '), the module (300, 400) further having at least two fastener elements (381-i, 382-i), each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) terminating in a latch (387-i), where each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) is rotatably mounted to the module (300, 400) and rotatable between an unlocked position and a locked position, the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) being rotatably mounted to the module (300, 400). The fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are configured and arranged such that retention of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) on the busbar plate (200) is automatically enhanced when the busbar plate (200) is pulled away from the module (300, 400) in a locked position of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i). The invention also provides a system (1000) comprising the module (300, 400) and the busbar plate (200).

Description

Hybrid power bus, busbar and power supply system Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to hybrid power busbars, busbar boards, and power supply systems, all of which can provide the option of rear power supply while allowing various electrical devices to be installed on the front. Background Technology

[0002] Power supply systems used to distribute power among electrical devices are typically installed in control cabinets. Examples of electrical devices include switching devices and switching elements, such as contactors, fuses, or even display units that can, for example, indicate the operating status of downstream electrical entities. Control cabinets have limited internal space, making them expensive, especially since the area available for users to install electrical equipment is particularly valuable.

[0003] In traditional control cabinets, power is fed in via power modules located on the front of the busbar. A drawback of this design is that the space required for these front-facing power modules cannot be used for other busbar components.

[0004] EP 4 184 732 A1 describes a power supply module for back-side power supply in a power distribution bus system. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this invention is to improve existing power supply systems, particularly in terms of flexibility and compatibility in use, simplicity of design, and operational performance.

[0006] The subject matter of the independent claims addresses the aforementioned problems.

[0007] Therefore, according to a first aspect of the invention, a hybrid power bus is provided, comprising: a first type connection portion having a plurality of regularly arranged slots for receiving electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of electrical devices of the first connection type from the front side of the power bus via selection (in particular, arbitrary selection) of the slots; a second type connection portion having a front contact portion located on the front side of the power bus and a back engagement portion opposite to the front contact portion, for the first electrical and / or mechanical interface of the electrical device of the second connection type to engage the back engagement portion, while its second electrical and / or mechanical interface contacts the front contact area; and a back power connection portion extending from the second type connection portion and opposite to the front side of the power bus for receiving feed current for supplying power to the power bus and / or for providing feed current on the back side of the power bus.

[0008] Electrical equipment of the first connection type and / or electrical equipment of the second connection type can be any of the following: fuse holder, fuse switch disconnector, switch disconnector, switch disconnector with fuse, adapter for MCB or MCCB or motor starter or contactor, power supply, motor starter, surge protector and other electrical and / or electronic equipment.

[0009] The term "hybrid power bus" or "hybrid bus" refers to the compatibility of a power bus with electrical equipment of a first connection type as well as with electrical equipment of a second connection type. This is in contrast to a conventional "non-hybrid" power bus, which, without the use of an adapter, is configured to be compatible with only one or the other.

[0010] Receiving electrical and / or mechanical interfaces for electrical equipment of the first connection type through (at least) the selection of slots refers to the fact that typically each electrical device (e.g., adapter, switch component, etc.) will occupy only a few slots, and the primary purpose of the busbar is to provide power to multiple devices. It should be understood that, generally, slots can be arbitrarily selected to install any electrical device.

[0011] In some variations, preferably, the front (or: mounting side, or: mounting surface) of the power busbar is as regular as possible, thus providing the user with maximum flexibility regarding where to install which electrical equipment. The front is specified in this way because the power busbar (e.g., within a busbar plate) will typically be mounted with its back facing a wall or mounting surface, and its front facing forward, allowing the user access to install and remove electrical equipment.

[0012] Regarding electrical equipment of the second connection type, it should be understood that when such equipment is installed on a power bus, the first electrical and / or mechanical interface and the second electrical and / or mechanical interface of the same equipment simultaneously contact the front contact portion and the rear engagement portion, respectively. Typically, either the first or second mechanical interface can be electrical and mechanical, purely electrical or purely mechanical, although typically at least one interface of any equipment will have at least an electrical function.

[0013] An electrical interface (or: an interface with electrical functionality) is an interface that enables a device to receive and / or output electrical energy from a device. A mechanical interface (or: an interface with mechanical functionality) means that the interface enables a device to be secured to a power bus in a certain way or orientation. Therefore, electrical and mechanical (or electromechanical) interfaces provide some mechanical fixation or stability while also allowing current to pass through.

[0014] The rear power connection section allows the exchange of electrical energy or current between an external source / load (e.g., using a power module as described below) and the rear power bus, while electrical equipment can be easily mounted (or attached) to the front of the power bus.

[0015] This has several advantages: First, the valuable (and usually limited) space on the front side does not need to be used for feeding current into (or out of) the power bus. This frees up more space for electrical equipment on the front side, thereby improving the space efficiency of switchgear, such as within a control cabinet.

[0016] Second, compared to the arrangement of electrical equipment on the front, the power supply to / from the power busbar typically changes less frequently. Therefore, the more frequently needed sections of the power busbar are conveniently located on the front (i.e., the side accessible when the power busbar is installed), while the less frequently needed sections are located on the back.

[0017] In this way, a particularly suitable power bus is provided for rear power connections, which improves upon previously known systems.

[0018] The power busbar is suitable for carrying currents of 400A or greater, 600A or greater, or even 800A or greater. It can have a minimum length of 100 mm. For example, its length can be between 100 mm and 2000 mm, particularly between 200 mm and 1600 mm, or between 300 mm and 1500 mm, including all terminal values. The total cross-sectional area of ​​the power busbar can be 150 mm². 2 and 400 mm 2 Between, preferably 200 mm 2 and 350 mm 2 Between, more preferably between 210 mm 2 and 300 mm 2 between.

[0019] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the rear power connection portion is configured as a rear feed-in portion for receiving feed current from the power bus to supply current to electrical equipment of a first connection type via a first type connection portion and / or to electrical equipment of a second connection type via a second type connection portion. In this way, the entire front side of the power bus can be used to mount electrical equipment. Furthermore, any operation that could jeopardize the power supply to the entire power bus is more likely to be prevented because the portion or component providing the rear feed-in is not (easily or not at all) accessible from the front.

[0020] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, any cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the power bus intersects with the first type connection portion, the second type connection portion, and the rear power connection portion. Therefore, the entire power bus provides all three portions at all locations, thus offering the user maximum flexibility and variability.

[0021] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the power bus is integrally formed of at least one metal and / or at least one metal alloy. This has considerable advantage in the present case because the power bus of the present invention provides structural stability in all directions: stability not only in its longitudinal direction but also in directions perpendicular to the longitudinal direction, due to the specific shape of the rear power connection portion extending away from the front. In particular, when the power bus is mounted on a busbar, it typically passes through the busbar from left to right (longitudinal direction), thereby reinforcing the busbar, and also passes through the busbar from its front to its back.

[0022] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the first type of connection portion and the second type of connection portion constitute the front side of the power bus. Preferably, each of them constitutes at least 35% of the front side of the power bus, more preferably at least 40% or more, and even more preferably 45% or more.

[0023] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the rear power connection portion extends substantially along an imaginary boundary line between the first type of connection portion and the second type of connection portion, and is perpendicular to the front side of the power bus. In this way, the power bus has a particularly robust shape with a well-balanced profile for current carrying and for the distribution of electrical and mechanical loads.

[0024] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the power bus includes at least one locking portion disposed between the second type connection portion and the rear power connection portion and / or between the first type connection portion and the rear power connection portion, and adapted to receive a latch from the busbar for locking the power bus within the busbar. Preferably, the locking portion is immovable, such that the power bus can only be inserted longitudinally into the busbar (typically a rear component of the busbar housing). This allows the busbar including the power bus to be easily assembled and provides high stability.

[0025] According to a second aspect, the present invention also provides a busbar board comprising a housing in which a plurality of power buses are arranged according to any embodiment of the first aspect of the invention. The housing may have a touch-protected front side through which electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of electrical devices of a first connection type can enter slots of a first type of connection portion, and through which mechanical and / or electrical interfaces of electrical devices of a second connection type can engage with front contact portions and / or rear engagement portions. The housing also has at least one rear opening for each of its power buses for receiving an external power connection contact for contacting the rear power connection portion of the corresponding power bus for feeding power to and / or receiving power from the corresponding power bus.

[0026] Preferably, the housing is touch-protected from all sides, especially from its front or back. Touch protection can be quantified using the "IP code" or "ingress protection" code defined by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) under international standards such as IEC 60529. For example, the housing may have an IP20 touch protection rating.

[0027] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements or variations of the embodiments, for each power bus, the touch-protected front side of the busbar housing includes a first row of first openings aligned with slots to allow electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of electrical devices of a first connection type to pass through them and through slots of the corresponding power bus below; and a second row of second openings to allow electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of electrical devices of a second connection type to pass through and engage with a second type of connection portion of the corresponding power bus below (specifically, with a front contact portion and / or a back engagement portion); wherein the first row of first openings and the second row of second openings may be formed identically for all power buses, or partially differently for at least one power bus.

[0028] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the busbar, the shape of the second opening for the first power bus differs from the shape of the second opening for at least another power bus. This allows for additional functionality, such as preventing electrical equipment from being installed on the busbar in the wrong orientation, providing additional opportunities to mechanically secure (or: reversibly lock) electrical equipment to the busbar, and so on.

[0029] Therefore, the present invention also provides a busbar assembly according to any embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, and at least one electrical device (of a first or second connection type) configured such that the shape of a second opening in the busbar prevents the electrical device from being mounted on the busbar in the wrong direction (e.g., upside down) or in the wrong location (e.g., connected to a set of power buses other than the power buses included in the busbar).

[0030] Preferably, all second openings within the same row (or, in other words, for contacting the same power busbar within the busbar board) have the same shape. For example, the second opening for busbar A may have shape X, and the second opening for busbar B may have shape Y. This again provides the flexibility to select any second opening for installing electrical equipment. In other variations, the second openings within a row may present a regular pattern of at least two different shapes, such as the XYX YX Y pattern, the XXYXXY pattern, and so on. Two different rows may have the same set of shapes but different patterns, or different arrangements of the same pattern. For example, busbar A may have XYXYXY, busbar B may have YX YXYX, and many other combinations are also possible.

[0031] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, each of the second openings for the first power bus is shaped as a rectangle modified by at least one flared portion, while the second opening for at least another power bus is shaped as a simple rectangle. This means that, when properly positioned and oriented for installation, electrical equipment having any kind of protrusion aligned with the flared portion is prevented from being installed in a position and / or orientation where the protrusion aligns with the second opening of at least one power bus that is shaped as a simple rectangle.

[0032] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, each of the second openings for the first power bus is shaped as a rectangle modified by at least two flared portions, while the second opening for at least another power bus is shaped as a rectangle modified by only a single flared portion. In this way, the flared portions provided for more than one power bus can be used for anchoring fasteners, while additional flared portions can be used to prevent electrical equipment from being installed in the wrong position and / or orientation.

[0033] According to a third aspect of the invention, a power supply system is provided, comprising a busbar according to any embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, and a module (or: a back-end module) for connection to the back of the busbar, such as a power module (feed-in or feed-out) for back-end power connection to the busbar. The busbar may be configured to dock with the power module, and for each power bus of the busbar, the power module has at least one power connection contact arranged to enter at least one back-end opening of the busbar when the busbar docks with the power module. The module may have only mechanical functions, or both mechanical and electrical and / or electronic functions.

[0034] For example, the rear module may be a power module, a (purely mechanical) support module, a fuse-operated disconnect switch, a switch with fuse disconnect switch, a motor starter, an adapter, etc.

[0035] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the busbar also includes (particularly paired) fastener openings through which fastener elements (particularly paired fastener elements) of the rear module can engage with corresponding fastener mating elements (e.g., fastener flanges) of the busbar. Each fastener element can be rotatably mounted at the rear module and is operable between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, the fastener element can be inserted into and removed from the fastener opening of the busbar; in the locked position, the fastener element engages with the fastener mating element (e.g., fastener flange) to secure the busbar to the power module.

[0036] Each fastener element does not have to be in pairs, or each fastener opening does not have to be in pairs, or the two elements in a pair do not have to be in a row, although all of these are possible.

[0037] Each fastener component is advantageously made of heavy-duty materials, such as engineering thermoplastics or high-performance thermoplastics (e.g., polyetheretherketone, PEEK), or metal encased in an insulating material.

[0038] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the fastening elements of the same pair of fastening elements are arranged to rotate toward each other when they rotate from the unlocked position to the locked position. In this way, the busbar is held in a stable manner, preventing movement in multiple directions. Alternatively, the fastening elements of the same pair of fastening elements can be arranged to rotate away from each other when they rotate from the unlocked position to the locked position. Or, they can be configured and arranged to rotate in the same direction.

[0039] Preferably, the back panel and busbar (specifically: fastener elements, fastener mating elements such as fastener flanges and fastener openings) are configured such that when the fastener elements are in the locked position, they are positioned at an angle (neither parallel nor perpendicular) to each other relative to the mounting surfaces of the back panel and busbar, such that the corresponding axis of rotation of each fastener element is closer to the center of the busbar than the latch (or tip) of the fastener element. Preferably, the distance between the axes of rotation of the fastening elements of a pair of fastener elements is the closest distance between the fastener elements of the pair of fastener elements, and in particular, closer than the distance between the latches of the fastener elements of the pair of fastener elements.

[0040] Thus, when a force is applied to the busbar, driving (pushing, pulling, or biasing) the busbar away from the back module and pulling the fastener elements (the latches), a torque is applied to each fastener element, biasing (self-reinforcing) the corresponding fastener element to rotate toward the corresponding other fastener element in the same pair in the direction that the latch of the corresponding fastener element also points, thereby increasing the clamping of the fastener element's latch on the fastener mating element (e.g., the fastener flange).

[0041] In some advantageous embodiments, improvements, or variations of the embodiments, the back panel module includes a housing with multiple protrusions, and the busbar housing includes multiple back recesses configured to receive the protrusions in a close-fitting manner to secure the busbar in a direction parallel to the front (power bus) when it is mated with the power module. The protrusions and recesses interact to more firmly secure the busbar to the back panel module.

[0042] According to a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method for assembling a busbar according to any embodiment of the second aspect of the invention, the method comprising at least the following steps: providing a component of an inner portion (particularly the back side) of a housing of the busbar; sliding longitudinally in a power busbar at a side end (particularly the back side) of the component of the inner portion; and sealing at least one open side of the component of the inner portion with a component of the end portion of the housing (particularly the back side) to seal the power busbar therein.

[0043] The components of the internal sections and / or the components of the end sections can be either the entire internal section or the end section itself. Multiple internal sections can be combined laterally, i.e., along the range of the power bus, to accommodate power buses of various lengths.

[0044] However, preferably, the components of the internal and / or end portions are rear-side components (i.e., components of the busbar plate for mechanical contact with a rear module such as a power module or support module). The method may then include the step of assembling (or: completing) the respective internal and / or end portions by combining them with the respective front-side components. The front-side components may specifically include first and second openings. Advantageously, the components are configured such that, after assembly, the rear-side and front-side components cannot be non-destructively separated.

[0045] The at least one internal portion and the at least one end portion are also advantageously configured to be combinable such that, after assembly, they cannot be separated in a non-destructive manner. Similarly, when more than one internal portion is provided, the internal portions are joined together such that they cannot be separated in a non-destructive manner.

[0046] According to a fifth aspect, the present invention also provides a power bus without a first-type connection portion. Although electrical equipment of the first connection type can only be connected via an adapter of the second connection type, this power bus still has advantages over previously known power buses because it provides a rear power connection portion.

[0047] Accordingly, the present invention also provides a power bus, comprising: a (second type) connection portion having a front contact portion located on the front side of the power bus and a back engagement portion opposite to the front contact portion, for a first electrical and / or mechanical interface of an (second connection type) electrical device to engage the back engagement portion, while its second electrical and / or mechanical interface contacts the front contact area; and a back power connection portion extending from the (second type) connection portion and away from the front side of the power bus, for receiving feed current to supply power to the power bus at the back side of the power bus and / or for providing feed current at the back side of the power bus.

[0048] The present invention also provides a module (or: rear module) for rear-mounted connection to a busbar, the busbar including at least one power bus, the module further having at least two fastening elements, each fastening element terminating in a latch, wherein each fastening element is rotatably mounted on the module and can rotate between an unlocked position and a locked position, the fastening elements being configured and arranged such that when the busbar is pulled away from the module in the locked position of the fastening element, the retention (or: locking, or: clamping) of the fastening elements on the busbar is automatically strengthened. Specifically, this can be achieved by a mechanically automatically generated torque that pushes the latch of each fastening element into the corresponding fastening mating element of the busbar with greater force. Attached Figure Description

[0049] The invention will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments described in the accompanying drawings.

[0050] The accompanying drawings are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. Other embodiments of the invention and many anticipated advantages of the invention will become more readily apparent from the following detailed description.

[0051] In some variations, the proportions in the diagram may be precise, while in others they may be considered simple and illustrative.

[0052] In the accompanying drawings: FIG1A shows a power bus according to one embodiment in cross-sectional view; FIG1B shows the power bus of FIG1A in an oblique three-dimensional view; FIG2A and FIG2B show a modified power bus according to another embodiment; FIG3A and FIG3B show another modified power bus according to yet another embodiment; FIG4A shows a bus plate according to another embodiment of the invention; FIG4B shows details of the bus plate of FIG4A; FIG4C shows an isometric view of the bus plate of FIG4A and FIG4B, in which the power buses according to FIG1A and FIG1B are installed, some of which have been made Faded effect; Figure 4D shows a view of the busbar of Figures 4A-4C from its rear side; Figure 5A shows the power module of the embodiment from the front; Figure 5B shows an internal view of the power module of Figure 5A from the same direction; Figure 5C shows a variant of the power module with a single operating member; Figure 5D shows a variant of Figure 5C in more detail; Figure 5E shows the operating member of Figures 5C and 5D in more detail and independently; Figure 5F shows a partial cross-section through the operating member of Figures 5C-5E; Figure 5G shows a cross-section of the power module of Figures 5A and 5B, on which... The busbars of Figures 4A-4D are mounted; Figure 5H shows a cross-section through the power module and busbar parallel to the cross-section shown in Figure 5G; Figure 5J shows another cross-section through the power module and busbar parallel to the cross-sections shown in Figures 5G and 5H; Figure 6 shows the configuration of the power modules of Figures 5A and 5B and two support modules as part of a power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 7 shows an overview of the power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention; Figures 8A and 8B show electrical equipment of a first connection type as seen from the mounting side; Figure 8C shows specific details of the openings of the busbars of Figures 4A-4D; Figure 8D shows a cross-section of the electrical equipment of the first connection type mounted on the busbars of Figures 4A-4D; Figure 8E shows another cross-section of the electrical equipment of the first connection type mounted on the busbars of Figures 4A-4D; Figures 9A and 9B show electrical equipment of a second connection type as seen from the mounting side; Figure 9C shows a cross-section of the electrical equipment of the second connection type mounted on the busbars of Figures 4A-4D; and Figure 10 schematically shows a method for assembling a busbar according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] In the accompanying drawings, unless otherwise stated, the same reference numerals denote the same or functionally identical parts. Any directional terms such as "top," "bottom," "left," "right," "upper," "lower," "horizontal," "vertical," "rear," "front," and similar terms are for illustrative purposes only and are not intended to limit the embodiments to the specific arrangement shown in the drawings. In general, these figures relate to a common coordinate system x, y, z, and to how the different parts are designed to be arranged relative to each other. Detailed Implementation

[0054] Figure 1A shows a schematic cross-section of a power bus 100 according to an embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0055] As can be clearly seen from Figure 1A, the power bus 100 generally comprises or consists of three parts: a first type connection portion 110, a second type connection portion 120, and a rear power connection portion 130. Preferably, the entire power bus 100 is integrally formed from at least one metal and / or at least one metal alloy.

[0056] Preferably, the power bus 100 may have a length between 300 mm and 1500 mm.

[0057] The cross-sectional area of ​​the power bus 100 shown in Figure 1A can be 150 mm². 2 and 400 mm 2 Between, preferably 200mm 2 and 350 mm 2 Between, more preferably between 210 mm 2 and 300 mm 2 Between. In one variant, the power bus 100 has 300mm. 2 The total cross-sectional area.

[0058] Returning to the three main parts of the power bus 100, also refer to Figure 1B, which shows an oblique three-dimensional view of the ends of the same power bus 100.

[0059] The first type of connection portion 110 is configured to receive electrical equipment of the first connection type from the front FS of the power bus 100. Reception may specifically include electrical connection and / or mechanical fixation. The electrical equipment of the first connection type will be described in more detail below (e.g., see electrical equipment of the first connection type 510a, 510b in Figures 8A and 8B). For this purpose, the first type of connection portion 110 includes a plurality of regularly arranged slots 112, which may in particular be equally spaced slots 112.

[0060] In addition to slots 112, the first type of connection portion 110 may also include regularly arranged, preferably equally spaced, entrance slots 113. Although slots 112 are defined on all sides by the first type of connection portion 110, the entrance slots 113 are open at their respective longitudinal ends opposite to the second type of connection portion 120, i.e., they open to the free edge of the first type of connection portion 110.

[0061] Furthermore, when the busbar is installed such that the power bus 100 is arranged vertically, some of the weight of the power bus 100 is transferred to the housing via the ridge of the housing inserted into the inlet slot 113, and from there to the mounting plate or switchgear frame to which the housing is mounted. If the busbar is mounted to the mounting plate or switchgear frame via a (rear) module, the weight of the power bus 100 can be transferred from the housing of the busbar to the (rear) module accordingly. The (rear) module may have several features specifically designed to bear the weight of the busbar, such as protrusions in the module housing that fit into the rear recesses in the busbar housing.

[0062] The inlet slots 113 can be configured to receive corresponding (inwardly projecting) ridges of the busbar housing (see Figure 4A and its description below). Their primary purpose is to ensure and maintain good alignment between the slots 112 and the busbar housing (preferably with contact protection). This is particularly useful when the power bus 100 and the busbar housing are made of materials with different coefficients of thermal expansion, which is the case in general.

[0063] The first type of connection portion 110 is formed here, for example, as a flat strip extending along the longitudinal direction x of the power bus 100, wherein the flat strip is completely penetrated by the slot 112. The slot 112 is configured such that the electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of the electrical devices of the first connection types 510a, 510b can be inserted into and / or pass through at least one selected portion of the slot 112. Advantageously, the slots 112 are uniformly distributed, allowing the user to freely choose where to attach the electrical devices of the first connection types 510a, 510b.

[0064] For example, as shown again in Figures 8A and 8B, electrical interfaces 512-1, 512-2, and 512-3 (collectively referred to as 512-i) can be configured to be inserted into slot 112, and adjacent mechanical interfaces 511-1, 511-2, and 511-3 (collectively referred to as 511-i) can be configured (their shape and spacing from electrical interface 512-i are specially designed) so that when electrical interfaces 512-i are inserted into other slots 112, they can also be inserted into adjacent (preferably adjacent) slots 112.

[0065] When inserted, electrical interfaces 512-i connect to the inner wall of slot 112 on their lateral sides, thereby providing an electrical connection between devices 510a, 510b and power bus 100 via first-type connection portion 110. For example, when devices 510a, 510b are not mounted on power bus 100, mechanical interfaces 511-i provide benefits such as mechanical stability and protection for electrical interfaces 512-i. Since device 510a is a three-pole device, its electrical interfaces 512-i are arranged in three rows (two electrical interfaces 512-i in each row, and each side is surrounded by a mechanical interface 511-i). In contrast, device 510b is a two-pole device, exhibiting the same number of mechanical interfaces 511-i, but only two electrical interfaces 512-2 and 512-3 in total.

[0066] The entry slot 113 may optionally be formed by a number of slots 112 (preferably a subset of regularly spaced slots 112) that extend to the free edge of the first type of connection portion 110. Thus, the placement of the electrical interfaces 512-i and the mechanical interfaces 511-i is independent of the placement of the entry slot 113. The electrical interfaces 512-i and the mechanical interfaces 511-i are generally configured to enter the slots 112 around their respective longitudinal centers (i.e., the centers of their longitudinal extents), and are therefore unaffected by whether a particular slot 112 is of a standard type (i.e., restricted at both longitudinal ends) or whether it extends into the entry slot 113 at one of its longitudinal ends.

[0067] Returning to Figures 1A and 1B, the power bus 100 also includes a second type connection portion 120 having a front contact portion 122 located at the front FS of the power bus 100 and a rear engagement portion 124 opposite to the front contact portion 122. The second type connection portion 120 is configured to receive electrical and / or mechanical interfaces of electrical devices of the second connection type. The electrical devices of the second connection type will be described in more detail below (see, for example, the electrical devices of the second connection type 520a, 520b in Figures 9A and 9B).

[0068] For example, again as shown in Figures 9A and 9B, electrical interfaces 522-1, 522-2, and 522-3 (collectively referred to as 522-i) can be configured to contact the front contact portion 122 of the second type connection portion 120 from the front FS of the power bus 100. Similarly, mechanical interfaces 523-1, 523-2, and 523-3 (collectively referred to as 523-i) or electromechanical interfaces 521-1, 521-2, and 521-3 (collectively referred to as 521-i), which in particular can be partially or fully hook-shaped, can be configured to surround the second type connection portion 120 and engage the back engagement portion 124 opposite to the front contact portion 122.

[0069] The interface that engages with the front contact portion 122 can be electrical and / or mechanical in nature, as can the interface that engages with the back contact portion 124.

[0070] For example, in device 520a of FIG. 9A, the interface 522-i for contacting the front contact portion 122 and the interface 521-i for engaging the rear contact portion 124 can both be made of metal and / or metal alloy and can serve as electrical interfaces. Furthermore, they also serve together as mechanical interfaces, clamping the second type connection portion 120 of the power bus 100 from both ends. In this way, when the power bus 100 is mounted such that the second type connection portion 120 faces upward and the first type connection portion 110 faces downward, the electrical devices 520a, 520b of the second connection type can be secured against gravity by being hooked onto the second type connection portion 120.

[0071] In device 520b of Figure 9B, the interface 522-i for contacting the front contact portion 122 can be a metallic electrical interface, while the interface 523-i for engaging the rear contact portion 124 can be purely mechanical in nature and can be integrally formed with, for example, the housing of device 520b. The insulating housing of any of devices 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b is typically made of a plastic.

[0072] As described above, in some variations, one way to distinguish the electrical devices 510a, 510b of the first connection type from the electrical devices 520a, 520b of the second connection type is that the electrical devices 510a, 510b of the first connection type engage with mechanical interfaces 511-i and electrical interfaces 512-i on the same surface and sides of the first type connection portion 110, while the electrical devices 520a, 520b of the second connection type have electrical and / or mechanical interfaces that engage with the second type connection portion 120 from two different sides, particularly from the front FS and the back.

[0073] Returning to Figures 1A and 1B, the power bus 100 also includes a rear power connection (or current connection) portion 130 extending from the second type connection portion 12 and away from the front FS of the power bus 100. The rear power connection portion 130 is configured to receive feed current for powering the power bus 100 at the rear RS of the power bus 100, and / or provide feed current from the power bus 100 at the rear RS of the power bus 100.

[0074] In a preferred variant, the rear power connection portion 130 is a rear feed-in portion for receiving the feed-in current from the power bus 100 to supply current to electrical equipment of the first connection type 510a, 510b via the first type connection portion 110, and / or to electrical equipment of the second connection type 520a, 520b via the second type connection portion 120.

[0075] However, as already described, the rear power connection portion 130 can also serve as a rear feedout portion, for example when power is fed into the power bus 100 by a feed-in electrical device (of any type) installed at the front FS of the power bus 100, particularly at the first type connection portion 110 or the second type connection portion 120.

[0076] Furthermore, any combination is possible, for example, a variation in which both input and output are performed via the rear power connection section 130. In some cases, there may even be a configuration in which both input and output are performed by electrical equipment at the front FS; although this does not fully utilize the advantageous design of the power bus 100, it is a viable option, for example, for rapid testing or as a temporary solution.

[0077] The first type connection portion 110, the second type connection portion 120, and the rear power connection portion 130 should be understood to extend at least partially (or even completely) along the longitudinal extent of the power bus 100 (direction x in FIG. 1B). Therefore, any cross-section perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the power bus 100 may intersect all of the first type connection portions 110, the second type connection portions 120, and the rear power connection portions 130.

[0078] Returning to Figures 1A and 1B, the rear power connection portion 130 is shown extending substantially along the imaginary boundary between the first type connection portion 110 and the second type connection portion 120, and perpendicular to the front FS of the power bus 100. In Figure 1B, an orthogonal coordinate system (or: orthogonal tripod) x, y, z is indicated, where x is arranged along the longitudinal range of the power bus 100. The y-direction is perpendicular to the x-direction and parallel to the longitudinal range of slot 112 and inlet slot 113, extending along the front FS from the first type connection portion 110 to the second type connection portion 120.

[0079] The z-direction is perpendicular to the x and y directions and extends from the front FS to the rear RS. Therefore, when the mounting plane at the front FS of the power bus 100 is arranged parallel to the xy plane, the rear power connection portion 130 can also be said to extend approximately along the z-direction.

[0080] The x, y, z coordinate system will be used in all the figures to show the respective orientations of the different devices when they are installed as intended (see, for example, the overview in Figure 7).

[0081] In Figures 1A and 1B, a thinner intermediate section is also shown arranged between the larger sections of the second type connection portion 120 and the rear power connection portion 130. It is believed, without intending to be limited to this possible interpretation, that the particularly good performance of the power bus 100 may be partly due to the fact that the cross-section of the power bus 100 has a large surface area, which is affected by the skin effect.

[0082] The large surface area of ​​the power bus 100, provided by its special cross-sectional profile, also improves its cooling: the increased surface area enhances radiative cooling. Furthermore, as described later, the bus plate according to the invention has multiple openings in its housing, providing opportunities for heat radiation to escape and for heat convection to occur. In addition, the plastic material of the housing itself also provides cooling through heat conduction.

[0083] Furthermore, in the variations shown in Figures 1A and 1B, corresponding locking portions 151 and 152 are arranged on either side of the rear power connection portion 130, i.e., between the rear power connection portion 130 and the second type connection portion 120 on one side, and between the rear power connection portion 130 and the first type connection portion 110. The locking portions 151 and 152 can be configured to receive locking hooks on the busbar for locking the power bus 100 within the busbar, particularly relative to movement in the z and y directions. The interaction between the power bus 100 and the busbar will be described in more detail below.

[0084] One way to implement the locking portions 151 and 152 is that the cross-sectional profile of the power bus 100 extends from the second type connection portion 120 toward the rear end 131 of the rear power connection portion 130, first toward the center of the power bus 100 in the y-dimensional direction, and then away from the center again, thereby forming the first locking portion 151. Similarly, the cross-sectional profile of the power bus 100 extends from the first type connection portion 110 to the rear end 131 of the rear power connection portion 130, first toward the center of the power bus 100 in the y-dimensional direction, and then away from the center again, thereby forming the second locking portion 152. As shown, the first and second locking portions 151 and 152 can be set at the same height (along the z-direction) (not shown) or at different heights.

[0085] In the following sections, some other variations and technical considerations of the embodiment of the power bus 100 will be described, particularly regarding the shape of the cross-section.

[0086] Figures 2A and 2B show a variant power bus 100', which differs from the power bus 100 in Figures 1A and 1B in the construction of the second type connection portion 120' and the construction of the rear power connection portion 130'.

[0087] For the second type of connection portion 120' indicated by the dashed box in Figure 2A, it is clear that it has the same external profile as the second type of connection portion 120 in Figures 1A / 1B, but instead of having a solid cross section, it has a recessed channel 125 (or: channel-shaped recess, or: cut-out portion) extending parallel to the y-direction, i.e., the longitudinal extent parallel to the front FS and the slot 112.

[0088] The recessed channel 125 within the second type of connection portion 120' can be used for a variety of purposes: increasing the outer surface of the cross-section of the power bus 100 affected by the skin effect, reducing the weight and necessary material of the power bus 100, providing additional anchoring facilities for other types of electrical and / or mechanical interfaces, and so on.

[0089] As can be seen from Figures 2A and 2B, the electrical devices 520a and 520b of the second connection type in Figures 9A and 9B, with their electrical interfaces and mechanical interfaces 521-i, 522-i, and 523-i, can achieve an equally effective mating / engagement with the second type connection portion 120', because the second type connection portion 120 and 120' have the same external contour. In particular, the front contact portion 122 and the back engagement portion 124 are substantially or completely unaffected by the presence of the recessed channel 125.

[0090] As already mentioned, the second difference between power bus 100 and 100' is the construction of the rear power connection portion 130'. The rear power connection portion 130' extends from the second type connection portion 120', essentially as a flat wall parallel to the xz plane, optionally with one (as shown in Figures 2A / 2B) or two (not shown) locking portions 152'. The locking portions 152' of the rear power connection portion 130' are configured as a simple flange (or flange-like protrusion) extending along the longitudinal extent (i.e., along the x-direction) of the power bus 100, located at the middle third of the rear power connection portion 130', and protruding from the rear power connection portion 130' in the y-direction (negative here). In this variant, the locking latch corresponding to the locking portion 152' can be provided only on the right side of Figure 2A via the bus plate.

[0091] The rearmost end 131' (or, here: the rearmost tip) of the rear power connection portion 130' is simply the flat end of the wall-shaped rear power connection portion 130'. The advantageous shape of the rearmost tip 131' can be selected according to the type of electrical contact used to engage with it, which will be described in more detail below, especially with reference to FIG5B.

[0092] Figures 3A and 3B show another variant power bus 100", which differs from the power bus 100' in Figures 2A and 2B in the construction of the rear power connection portion 130".

[0093] The rear power connection portion 130” has a two-forked cross section at its last end 131”, with a channel 135” formed between them along the x-direction. Where the rear power connection portion 130” begins to extend outward from the second type connection portion 120’ into a two-forked portion, in addition to the locking portion 152” already present in the power bus 100’, corresponding locking portions 151”, 153” are formed on either side of the last end 131”.

[0094] In summary, it is clear that the construction and shape of power buses 100, 100', and 100" can advantageously and flexibly adapt to different locking latches, different electrical and / or mechanical interfaces, etc., while still benefiting from the core ideas of the invention. In the following description, by way of example, the invention will continue without prejudice to the power bus 100 of Figures 1A and 1B. It should be understood that any other variation of the power bus 100 can be used just as well unless explicitly or implicitly stated otherwise. For simplicity, only the reference numeral "100" will be used for power bus 100 below, and it should be understood that in some variations, this can be replaced by 100' or 100" instead.

[0095] Figure 4A shows a general overview of a busbar 200 according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0096] Figure 4B shows details of the busbar 200 (one side end) of Figure 4, and will be used for a more detailed explanation below.

[0097] The busbar includes a housing 260, in which a plurality of power buses 100-1, 100-2, 100-3 (collectively referred to as 100-i) are arranged in parallel according to an embodiment of the present invention. The housing 260 and / or any part thereof may be manufactured using methods such as injection molding.

[0098] Typically, each power bus 100-i in the busbar 200 carries current of a different phase, such as L1, L2, L3, N, or PE. Therefore, the busbar 200 can typically be configured with 3, 4, or 5 power buses 100, although any number is possible.

[0099] The housing 260 is made of an electrically insulating material, such as a plastic material, particularly a thermally conductive plastic material.

[0100] Busbar 200 provides multiple functions: for example, it provides contact protection to power busbar 100-i, and it provides mechanical anchoring to power busbar 100-i and the electrical equipment 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b to be installed thereon. Busbar 200 can be provided as an out-of-the-box (OOTB) system, meaning it is provided with a closed housing 260 that cannot be opened without tools or damage. OOTB also means that no user assembly is required, as the user can simply remove busbar 200 from the box and begin installation.

[0101] Therefore, housing 260 advantageously has a touch-protected front side (see FIG. 4B). For each of its power buses 100-i, this front side includes a row (along the x-direction) of first openings 212-1, 212-2, 212-3 (or “slots”, collectively referred to as 212-i and extending in the y-direction), through which electrical and / or mechanical interfaces 511-i, 512-i of the first connection type of electrical devices 510a, 510b can enter slots 112 arranged below in the first type of connection portion 110.

[0102] For each power bus 100-i, the front of the housing 260 also includes a row of second openings 222-1, 222-2, 222-3 (or “slots”; collectively referred to as 222-i and extending in the y direction) (along the x direction), through which mechanical and / or electrical interfaces 521-i, 522-i, 523-i of the second connection type of electrical devices 520a, 520b can engage with the second type of connection portion 120, particularly with the front contact portion 122 (slightly visible through the second opening 222-i in FIG. 4B) and the rear engagement portion 124 (entering the second opening 222-i in the z direction, above the front contact portion 122 in the y direction, and then moving in the negative y direction). In FIG. 4B, the upper edge 121 of the power bus 100-3 is visible, around which the mechanical and / or electrical interfaces 521-i, 523-i will be used to engage the rear engagement portion 124.

[0103] The first opening 212-i and the second opening 222-i of the housing 260 can be arranged regularly, particularly at equal intervals, wherein the first opening 212-i conforms to the spacing and dimensions of the slots 112 in the first type of connection portion 110, while the second opening 222-i can have a different spacing than the first opening 212-i. As shown in FIG5B, the period of repetition of the second opening 222-i can be an integer multiple of the period of repetition of the first opening 212-i, for example, it can be twice that period. This allows the specific shape of the second opening 222-i to be used for the mechanical and / or electrical interface 513-i of the electrical equipment of the first connection types 510a, 510b, and vice versa.

[0104] Figure 4B further illustrates that the openings 212-i and 222-i in different rows, i.e., those used to allow access to different power buses 100-i, can have different shapes. All the first openings 212-i (here, exemplarily) have the same shape. In contrast, the second opening 222-1 for the first power bus 100-1 (with the lowest y-coordinate), the second opening 222-2 for the second power bus 100-2 (with an intermediate y-coordinate), and the second opening 222-3 for the third power bus 100-3 (with the highest y-coordinate) have all different shapes from each other. This provides advantageous functionality, which will be explained in more detail below in conjunction with Figure 8C.

[0105] However, preferably, the second openings 222-i within the same row (i.e., for the same power bus 100) have the same shape. It is also preferred that all second openings 222-i on all rows have the same minimum width, such that all mechanical and / or electrical interfaces 521-i, 522-i, 523-i of electrical equipment of the second connection types 520a, 520b with a width not exceeding said minimum width can access all second openings 222-i.

[0106] Figure 4C shows a perspective view of busbar 200, in which power bus 100-2 is installed, with other power buses 100-1, 100-3 and some portions of the busbar faded out to better show how the specific cross-sectional shape of power bus 100-2 mates with busbar 200.

[0107] Figure 4C shows how the first latch 251-i of the busbar 200 can engage with the locking portion 151; 151” between the second type connection portion 120 and the rear power connection portion 130 of the corresponding power bus 100-i, and how the second latch 252-i of the busbar 200 can engage with the locking portion 152; 152' between the first type connection portion 110 and the rear power connection portion 130 of the corresponding power bus 100.

[0108] Both the first latch 251-i and the second latch 252-i for the power bus 100-i extend parallel to each other along the x-direction. Therefore, when manufacturing the bus plate 200, an internal portion of the housing 260 can be provided into which the power bus 100-i can slide longitudinally, and at least one end portion of the housing 260 can then be used to close the internal portion, sealing the power bus 100-i within the bus plate 200.

[0109] Figure 4D shows the busbar plate 200 according to the invention from the rear. It should be noted that Figure 4D shows a busbar plate 200 that is slightly shorter than the busbar plate in Figure 4A, only for ease of explanation; in all respects, the busbar plate 200 can be treated the same.

[0110] Now, specifically, Figure 4D shows that the housing 260 can be assembled from a plurality of internal portions 265 (here: three) arranged along the x-direction and end portions 269 at each end thereof, wherein all internal portions 265 are identical, and the end portions 269 are provided with a left end portion and a right end portion in the illustrated configuration. Therefore, the busbar plate 200 shown in Figure 4A can be provided with more internal portions 265 as shown in Figure 4D without changing any other parts.

[0111] Each internal portion 265 or end portion 269 may include or consist of two components: a rear component for receiving the power bus 100-i and for mounting the busbar to the mounting module; and a front component including openings 212-i, 222-i (or in other words, providing mounting surfaces for portions 265, 269). During manufacturing, the rear and front components may be connected to each other, wherein the connection mechanism is preferably configured such that the rear and front components can no longer be separated in a non-destructive manner (see also Figure 10 and the corresponding description).

[0112] Either of the portions 265 and 269 of the housing 260 (preferably each) may have at least one inwardly projecting ridge for mating (specifically, entering) with the inlet slot 113 in the power bus 100-i. More preferably, for each power bus 100-i to be included in the housing 260, an inwardly projecting ridge is provided at each of the portions 265 and 269. The inwardly projecting ridge is preferably located at the center of each portion 265 and 269 of the housing 260 (in the x-direction, i.e., along the longitudinal extent of the power bus 100-i).

[0113] One idea behind this is that, typically, the power bus 100-i (usually made of metal or a metal alloy) and portions 265, 269 of the housing 260 (usually made of plastic) will expand differently when heated (especially from the power bus 100-i). In principle, this could cause the first opening 212-i in one portion 265, 269 and the slot 112 in the lower portion of the power bus 100-i on the other side to misalign.

[0114] In the busbar 200, this problem is solved by an inward ridge that mates with the inlet slot 113, which aligns (or centers) each part 265, 269 of the housing 260 with the corresponding part of the power bus 100-i that it covers (or surrounds).

[0115] As mentioned earlier, busbar 200 can be assembled into an OOTB system, so that parts 265 and 269 cannot be disassembled from each other, or without tools, or at all (without the risk of damage).

[0116] The housing 260 has at least one rear opening 232-1, 232-2, 232-3 (collectively referred to as 232-i) for each of its power buses 100-i, for receiving an external power connection contact for contacting the rear power connection portion 130 of the respective power bus 100-i for feeding power to (or receiving power from) the respective power bus 100-i.

[0117] As shown in Figure 4D, each internal portion 265 has four rear openings 232-i for each power bus 100-i within the busbar 200. In some rows, i.e., for some power buses 100-i, the four rear openings 232-i can be adjacent to each other (here for the first power bus 100-1 and the third power bus 100-3), while in other rows (here for the second power bus 100-2), they can be arranged partially or completely apart, here in pairs.

[0118] Specifically, the rear openings 232-i for the intermediate power bus 100-2 can be arranged at both ends (in the x direction) of each internal portion 265, two on each side. Where two internal portions 265 meet, a group of four rear openings 232 is created, as shown in Figure 4D. These groups, created by arranging two portions 265, 269 adjacently, are identical in shape to the groups provided entirely by the same portion 265, 269.

[0119] End portion 269 is exemplarily designed here to have the same width (in the x direction) as inner portion 265, but only has rear openings 232-i for some power bus 100-i rows (here: only for two power bus 100-i), and has an equal or unequal number (here: two rear openings 232-2 for the middle power bus 100-2, four for the other one - which one depends on the type of end portion 269 - left end type or right end type).

[0120] Advantageously, the two rear openings 232-i in the middle of the end portion 269 can be used to make the two rear openings 232-i in the middle of the inner portion 265 a set of four rear openings 232-i again. As a result, for each power bus 100-i, a combination of an end portion 269 and an inner portion 265 includes at least one set of four rear openings 232-i, marked with circles in FIG4D. As described below, this allows for rear power feed (or feed) via a power module having a width extending over an end portion 269 and an inner portion 265 of the housing 260.

[0121] Figure 4D further shows that each intermediate portion 265 and each end portion 269 of the busbar 200 is provided with two fastener openings 284-1, 284-2 arranged in a straight line (in the y direction) at the respective upper and lower ends (in the y direction) of each intermediate portion 265 or end portion 269.

[0122] As will be described in more detail below with respect to Figures 5B and 5G, these fastener openings 284-1, 284-2 are provided for receiving fastener elements designed to fasten the busbar 200 to external devices, such as to the rear module of a power module or support module (see also Figure 6 below).

[0123] The rear module can be mounted on a mounting plate or frame of the switchgear, thereby supporting the busbar 200 mounted thereon. Alternatively, it can be a busbar 200 mounted on a mounting frame, and thus a busbar 200 that supports the weight of the rear module.

[0124] In this example, the fastener openings 284-1 and 284-2 have a rectangular shape. Outside the fastener openings 284-1 and 284-2, inside the busbar plate 200, corresponding fastener flanges are provided as fastener mating elements, and fastener elements entering the fastener openings 284-1 and 284-2 can mate with these fastener flanges (see also Figure 5G).

[0125] Figure 5A illustrates a power module 300, which is part of a power supply system according to the invention, and will be described below (see specifically Figure 7). The power module 300 is given here as a first example of a rear-mounted module, i.e., a module configured for rear-mounted connection to the busbar 200. Many features will be described herein, which are not limited in any way to the implementation as power module 300, but can also be applied to any other implementation. As another example of a rear-mounted module, a purely mechanical support module will also be described below. Therefore, it should be understood that while it is advantageous to specifically implement the rear-mounted module as a power module or a support module, a large number of other implementations are possible.

[0126] When the busbar 200 with power bus 100-i is connected to (or installed on) the power module 300, the power module 300 is configured to connect to power conductors 301-1, 301-2, 301-3 (collectively referred to as 301-i) carrying different current phases (L1, L2...), and each power conductor 301-i is connected to the corresponding power bus 100-i.

[0127] The power module 300 is configured to receive at least a portion of the busbar 200 within the receiving volume 370. Referring to FIG. 4D, the power module 300 advantageously has a basic (or precise) combined width (in the x direction) of an end portion 269 and an inner portion 265 of the housing 260 of the busbar 200. The power module 300 also provides a corresponding electrical connection contact assembly 330-i for each power bus 100-i (see also FIG. 5B). As can be clearly seen from FIG. 4D, when the busbar 200 of FIG. 4D is mated with the power module 300, these assemblies 330-i are configured to slide into the rear opening 232-i marked with a circle in FIG. 4D.

[0128] Preferably, the receiving volume 370 of the power module 300 is configured to be touch-protected, particularly having an IP20 rating.

[0129] Typically, the power module 300 will be mounted vertically, that is, the power conductor 301-i extends vertically, and the busbar 200 is mounted horizontally (perpendicular to the power conductor 301-i). When different electrical devices 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b are mounted on the busbar 200, a considerable amount of weight may fall on the power module 300.

[0130] The mechanical fixing / installation of the busbar 200 to the power module 300 for the interface is provided by essentially two mechanisms: the first mechanism includes a plurality (here: eight) protrusions 340 in the housing 360 of the power module 300, which abut against corresponding back recesses 240 in the back of the housing 260 of the busbar 200, as shown in Figure 4D. The housing 360 is made of an electrically insulating material, such as a plastic material.

[0131] The rear recess 240 is configured to receive a plurality of protrusions 340 in a close-fitting manner for securing the bus plate 200 in the x and / or y directions parallel to the front FS of the power bus 100 when the bus plate 200 is mated with (or installed on) the power module 300.

[0132] In the vertical direction (i.e., in the y-direction), the protrusions 340 can be arranged in a single line, while in the horizontal direction (i.e., in the x-direction), they can be staggered. They can also be arranged in a straight line in both directions, or staggered in both directions.

[0133] The protrusion 340 is preferably integrally formed with the housing 360 of the power module 300. More preferably, the protrusion 340 includes a surface perpendicular to the housing 360, and when the power module 300 is mated with the busbar 200, a front surface FS perpendicular to the power bus 100-i.

[0134] More preferably, the protrusion includes a surface located in a plane perpendicular to the front side FS of the power bus 100-i and extending parallel to the longitudinal direction of the power bus 100-i (i.e., a surface extending parallel to the xz plane). This is because, as previously mentioned, the busbar plate 200 is typically mounted to a wall such that the power bus 100-i extends horizontally therein (i.e., parallel to the floor in the x-direction and parallel to the opposite direction of gravity in the y-direction).

[0135] The busbar 200 can have a considerable weight, not only from the (partially solid) power bus 100-i, but also from any type of electrical equipment mounted to (or connected to) the busbar 200. When the protrusions 340 of the power module 300's housing are inserted into (or engaged with) the recesses 240 in the housing 260 of the busbar 200, and when the protrusions are shaped as described above, they are able to bear most of the weight of the busbar 200.

[0136] For example, the protrusions can be substantially block-shaped, as shown in Figure 5A. Therefore, the recesses 240 in the busbar plate 200 can have a corresponding shape.

[0137] Preferably, a second fixing mechanism is also provided, particularly for holding the busbar 200 within the receiving volume 370, especially relative to the z-direction. Figure 5A shows a first pair of fastener elements 381-1, 381-2 and a second pair of fastener elements 382-1, 382-2, both of which protrude through the housing 360 into the receiving volume 370.

[0138] All fastener elements 381-i and 382-i can be engaged with corresponding fastener mating elements (here, the fastener flange 285-i of the busbar 200). Fastener elements 381-i and 382-i are rotatably mounted on the power module 300 and can rotate between an unlocked position and a locked position. In the unlocked position, fastener elements 381-i and 382-i can be inserted into and removed from fastener openings within the housing 260 of the busbar 200. In the locked position, fastener elements 381-i and 382-i engage with the fastener flange 285-i, securing the busbar 200 to the power module 300.

[0139] Figure 5B provides an internal view of the housing 360 of the power module 300 (i.e., the top cover of the power module 300 is removed).

[0140] As shown in Figure 5A, and more clearly in Figure 5B and subsequent Figure 5G, the fastening latches of fastener elements 381-i and 382-i of a pair of fastener elements face each other. Fastener elements 381-1, 382-1 or 381-2, 382-2 facing the same direction (i.e., latches 387-i facing the same direction) can be mounted on the same axis of rotation and can be operated by the same operating members 383-1, 383-2. Operating members 383-1, 383-2 can be shaped such that they can be engaged by a screwdriver or the like. Pulling the operating members 383-1, 383-2 outward causes the fastener elements 381-i and 382-i connected to them to rotate outward and away from their respective opposite sides within the same pair of fastener elements, thereby releasing the busbar 200.

[0141] Figure 5C shows a variant in which only a single operating member 390 is provided for all fastener elements 381-i, 382-i of module 300.

[0142] Figure 5D shows a variation of Figure 5C in more detail. The operating member 390 includes an actuating element 399, which here is again exemplary formed as an annulus protruding from the housing 360 of the module 300, so that it can be actuated (here: pulled) with a screwdriver or the like.

[0143] The first portion 391 of the operating member 390 is directly connected to the actuating element 399. The first portion 391 of the operating member 390 has two cage-like elements 394 arranged around each of the first set of fastener elements 381-2, 382-2. When the actuating element 399 is pulled out (here, exemplarily: in the positive y-direction), the first portion 391 moves in the same direction, including the cages 394, which thus causes the fastener elements 381-2, 382-2 of the first set to rotate accordingly. As shown in FIG5D, in the example shown, this means moving them from the locked position to the unlocked position.

[0144] A pretensioning spring (or more generally, a biasing member) 396 is arranged between the first portion 391 of module 300 and the housing 370 to pretension the operating member 390, such that the fastener elements 381-2, 382-2 are pretensioned toward the locked position. So far, this could also be an operating member designed purely for the first set of fastener elements 381-2, 382-2, and it could be supplemented by a corresponding additional operating member at the other end of module 300 (in the y-direction) for operating the remaining fastener elements 381-1, 382-1, forming a second set.

[0145] However, in the example shown, only a single operating component 390 is provided.

[0146] Figure 5E shows the operating member 390 in more detail and independently. A first portion 391 is connected (or resiliently connected or attached) to a first end of a rocker element 398, which is rotatably arranged at an angle about at least one shaft element 393. At least one shaft element 393 is mounted in the housing 360 of the module 300. The at least one shaft element 393 may be integral with or separate from the rocker element 398, for example, through a hole in the body of the rocker element 398.

[0147] At the other end of the rocker element 398, a second portion 392 of the operating member 390 is connected, attached, or coupled such that when the first end and the first portion 391 of the rocker element 398 move in one direction, the second end and the second portion 392 of the rocker element 398 move in the other direction. Therefore, in this example, when the actuating element 399 is pulled in the positive y-direction, the rocker element 398 in FIG. 5E rotates counterclockwise in the view shown, and the second portion 392 moves in the negative y-direction.

[0148] Similar to the first part 391, the second part 392 includes a cage 394 arranged around the remaining fastener elements 381-1, 382-1, and also includes a pre-tensioning member 396.

[0149] Furthermore, each of the first portion 391 and the second portion 392 may include at least one roller 395 for easier movement within the housing 360 of the module 300. In the example shown, each cage 394 is equipped with rollers 395.

[0150] Figure 5F shows a partial cross-section through the operating member 390 of Figures 5C-5E. As shown, in this example, the first part 391, the second part 392, the rocker element 398, and even the two shaft elements 393 are integrally formed of thermoplastic material, for example (except for the roller 395), although they can also be formed by connecting the initially separately formed elements together.

[0151] Therefore, it has been shown how module 300 is configured such that all fastener elements 381-i, 382-i can be operated by a single operating member 390. For the example shown, it has been assumed that there is a first set of fastener elements 381-2, 382-2 with latches 387-i pointing in the negative y direction, and a second set of fastener elements 381-2, 382-2 with latches 387-i pointing in the positive y direction, each operated by a separate portion 391, 392 of the operating member 390.

[0152] However, several alternatives and variations are available. For example, in a variation where all latches 387-i point in the same direction, the rocker element 398 can be omitted, and the first part 391 and the second part 392 are rigidly connected and always move in the same direction. The actuating element 399 can be arranged to be pushed into the housing 360 rather than pulled out of the housing 360 to bring the fastening elements 381-i and 382-i into the unlocked position.

[0153] Another type of actuating element is also possible, for example, an actuating element accessible from the side of housing 360 (in the positive and negative x directions). Such an actuating element can be actuated by rotation (e.g., using a screwdriver), which can, for example, rotate rocker element 398. One or more rotatable actuating elements can be configured to rotate each axis (directly or indirectly), to which a set of fastener elements 381-2, 382-2 are secured.

[0154] Other possibilities include a rotatable actuating element of an eccentric element that converts rotation into thrust and / or pull on cage 394, and many other possibilities.

[0155] In this regard, it should also be mentioned that two (or more) fastener elements 381-1, 381-2 do not necessarily need to be arranged in pairs on a line (here in the y-direction). A pair can also be arranged at an angle, for example, such that adjacent fastener elements 381-i, 382-i of module 300 are arranged at a regular distance (in the x-direction). For example, four fastener elements 381-1, 381-2, 382-1, 382-2 can be arranged in a zigzag pattern.

[0156] Figure 5G shows a cross-section through the power module 300, on which the busbar 200 is mounted, or in other words, the busbar 200 is mated to the power module 300. The power bus 100-i installed within the busbar 200 is also shown.

[0157] Figure 5G specifically illustrates how fastener elements 381-1, 381-2 are inserted into the busbar plate 200 through corresponding fastener openings 284-i and engage with corresponding fastener flanges 285-i, which are one of the fastener mating elements. In other words, in Figure 5G, fastener elements 381-1, 381-2 are shown in their respective locked (or: tightened) positions. To release the busbar plate 200, fastener elements 381-1, 381-2; 382-1, 382-2 will have to be rotated away from each other into their respective fastener openings 284-i, and only then can the busbar plate 200 be removed. Figure 5G can also be used to depict the busbar plate 200 mounted to a support module (see Figure 6 and the corresponding description).

[0158] The locking quality between the rear module (power module 300 in this example) and the busbar 200 is improved through a simple and efficient technique: in a direction perpendicular to the normal direction (z direction in this case) from the power module 300 to the busbar 200 (y direction in this case), at least in the locked position, there is an offset between the rotation axis 384-i of each fastener element 381-i, 382-i and the engagement area 388-i (or its nearest portion) of the latch 387-i of the corresponding fastener element 381-i, 382-i. y. The engagement area 388-i is the locking portion of the latch 387-i, which is a flat area facing and engaging with the fastener flange 285-i to achieve locking.

[0159] offset y exists simultaneously in both the locked and unlocked positions. The latch 387-i of each fastener element 381-i, 382-i is preferably oriented towards a corresponding offset. y. In other words, in the specific example shown in Figure 5G, the latch 387-i points in the y direction toward its rotation axis 388-i (the y position), rather than away from that position.

[0160] Therefore, when a force is applied to push or pull the busbar 200 away from the back module (here, the power module 300), this force has a negative z-direction component in Figure 5G. According to the laws of mechanics, this force is decomposed into two components: a first component parallel to the fastener element 381-i, pointing towards the rotation axis 384-i; and a second component forming a triangle of forces, thus having a positive y-direction component in Figure 5G. This second component thus presses the fastener element 387-i more tightly against the fastener mating element (here, the fastener clip 285-i), thereby enhancing the gripping force.

[0161] Therefore, fastener elements 381-i and 382-i possess self-reinforcing properties because the force attempting to automatically remove the busbar plate 200 mechanically generates a force component that enhances or increases the gripping or locking force of the latch 387-i on the fastener mating element (here, the snap-fit ​​285-i). The locking force here refers to the force applied when fastener elements 381-i and 382-i engage with their respective fastener mating elements. In other words, this self-reinforcing property of the lock means that when attempting to pull the busbar plate 200 away from the module 300, a torque is generated that enhances the retention of fastener elements 381-i and 382-i on the busbar plate 200, thereby keeping the busbar plate 200 close to the module 300.

[0162] Preferably, the module 300 and busbar 200 (specifically: fastener elements 381-i, 382-i, fastener flange 285-i, and fastener opening 284-i) are configured such that when the fastener elements 381-i, 382-i are in the locked position, they are positioned at an angle (neither parallel nor perpendicular) to each other relative to the mounting surfaces of the power module 300 and busbar 200 (parallel to the xy plane), such that the corresponding rotation axis 384-i of each fastener element 381-i, 382-i is closer to the center of the power module 300 and / or busbar 200 (in the y direction) than the latch 387-i (or tip) of the fastener elements 381-i, 382-i. However, it is also possible, conversely, that the rotation axis 384-i is farther from the center of the power module 300 and / or busbar 200.

[0163] Preferably, the distance between the rotation shafts 384-i of the pair of fastener elements 381-i, 382-i is the closest distance between the fastener elements 381-i, 382-i, and in particular, it is closer than the distance between the latches 387-i of the pair of fastener elements 381-i, 382-i. However, according to the self-reinforcing technology described above, the opposite approach can also be adopted, i.e., the spacing of the rotation shafts 384-i is greater than the spacing of the latches 387-i, especially as long as an offset Δy is provided between the engagement area 388-i (a portion) of each fastener element 381-i, 382-i and the rotation shaft 384-i.

[0164] This mechanism is not only easy to operate, but also has another advantage: the forces that push the busbar 200 (along the negative z-direction) away from the power module 300 will pull the fastener latches 387-i of the fastener elements 381-i and 382-i. Since the latches 387-i of the fastener elements 381-i and 382-i are positioned further outward (along the y-direction) than the rotation axis 384-i, pulling the fastener elements 381-i and 382-i will cause them to rotate (self-reinforcingly) toward each other, thereby increasing the gripping force of the latches 387-i on the corresponding fastener flanges 285-i.

[0165] For this purpose, fastener elements 381-i and 382-i are preferably shaped as shown in FIG. 5G, having an angled shape, wherein a first linear portion 385-i extends radially from the rotation axis 384-i, and then a second linear portion 386-i is angled to the first portion 385-i (the angle being, for example, between 10 degrees and 60 degrees). The first linear portion 385-i is connected to the rotation axis 384-i, and the second linear portion 386-i terminates at a latch 387-i. The latch 387-i points inward, i.e., towards the corresponding other fastener element 381-i or 382-i of the pair of fastener elements 381-i and 382-i.

[0166] Other geometries of fastener elements 381-i and 382-i are also possible, for example, the vertical angle between the first and second linear portions. To achieve the aforementioned self-reinforcing effect, it is preferred that fastener elements 381-i and 382-i include at least (or exactly) two linear portions 385-i and 386-i arranged in series, wherein the linear portion 385-i closest to the rotation axis 384-i does not directly point to the latch 386-i of fastener elements 381-i and 382-i.

[0167] Figure 5B shows three sets of power connection contacts 330-1, 330-2, and 330-3, without showing any touch protection features of the housing 360 surrounding them (shown in Figure 5A). Each set is provided for electrically connecting a corresponding one of the power conductors 300-i to a corresponding one of the power buses 100-i of the busbar 200. Between the power conductors 300-i and the corresponding power connection contacts 330-i, a corresponding intermediate busbar (arranged along the y-direction) can be electrically connected.

[0168] The power connection contact 330-i is shaped to mate with the rear power connection portion 130 of the corresponding power bus 100. In the example shown, the power connection contact 330-i is harp-shaped and is therefore configured to surround the rear end of the rear power connection portion 130 from both sides. The advantage of the harp shape is that, in the event of a short circuit, its arms are pushed / pulled toward each other, thereby increasing the physical grip on the rear power connection portion 130 in situations where a firm grip is particularly required.

[0169] Figure 5H shows a cross-section through the power module 300 and the busbar 200, parallel to the cross-section shown in Figure 5G.

[0170] Figure 5H specifically illustrates how the power connection contact 330-i engages (here: double-sided clamping) the back power connection portion 130 of the corresponding power bus 100-3 when the bus board 200 is installed onto the power module 300.

[0171] Figure 5J shows another cross-section through the power module 300 and busbar 200, which is parallel to the cross-section shown in Figure 5G and parallel to the cross-section shown in Figure 5H.

[0172] Figure 5J specifically illustrates how, when the busbar 200 is mounted to the power module 300, the protrusion 340 (which may also be designated as a stabilizing protrusion or a load-bearing protrusion) of the housing 360 of the power module 300 forms a shape-fitting engagement (or: fit, or: fill) with the back recess 240 in the housing 260 of the busbar 200. Figure 5J can also be used to depict the busbar 200 mounted to a support module (see Figure 6 and the corresponding description).

[0173] Figure 6 illustrates a configuration as part of a power supply system according to an embodiment of the present invention, wherein a power module 300 and two support modules 400 are arranged on a mounting plate 410 or a wall. As described above, the power module 300 and the support modules 400 are both possible embodiments or implementations of the rear-mounted module according to the present invention.

[0174] The distance between the power module 300 and the support module 400 is arranged such that the busbar 200 can simultaneously interface with all these modules. The support modules 400 are formed substantially the same as the power module 300, except that they do not provide the electrical conductors 301-i to be connected, and therefore do not need to include any electrical connection contacts 330-i. The support modules 400 can be simply configured to mount and secure the busbar 200 to the mounting plate 410 or a wall. Advantageously, they also include the two aforementioned fixing mechanisms, namely the protrusions 340 in the housing and the fastener elements 381-i, 382-i. Figure 7 illustrates a power supply system 1000 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0175] The power supply system 1000 includes at least one busbar 200 (which itself includes one or more power buses 100-i) and a power module 300. It may also include one or more support modules 400, mounting plates 410, control cabinets and / or one or more electrical devices 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b of a first or second connection type, wherein other parts of the power supply system 1000 are arranged in the control cabinet.

[0176] The power supply system 1000 shown in Figure 7 can, for example, be configured to be vertically mounted and receive power via power conductors 301-i (here from below). Furthermore, the power supply system 1000 shown is configured such that power is connected to the power bus 100-i at the leftmost end in Figure 7, and from there it is transmitted along their longitudinal range (i.e., in the x direction) to their rightmost end.

[0177] Alternative configurations are also possible, for example, to handle varying available amperes along the longitudinal range of power bus 100-i. For instance, power module 300 may not be positioned at the lateral (here: left) end of bus plate 200, but rather somewhere in the middle. In other words, power module 300 does not necessarily need to abut against any end 269 of the housing 260 of bus plate 200, but may only abut against the internal portion 265 of housing 260. This is achieved through a regular design on the back of bus plate 200 that repeats the pattern of three sets of diagonally arranged back openings 232-i. Figure 4A shows four such complete patterns. In this configuration, where power module 300 abuts against bus plate 200 somewhere in the middle, current can be supplied in both left and right directions.

[0178] More than one power module 300 may also be provided, for example, one at the leftmost end of the busbar 200 and one at the rightmost end, both of which feed current into the busbar 200 from their respective ends. Other variations may again include a power module 300 at each end, but one configured to feed current into the busbar 200 and one configured to feed current out of the busbar 200.

[0179] Any of these variations can be combined with electrical equipment that can be mounted to the front of the busbar 200, which can also be configured to feed current into and / or out of the busbar 200 from the front.

[0180] For example, the power module 300 can be provided for back-side current feeding, and electrical equipment mounted on the front side of the busbar 200 can be configured to feed out (some) current. These examples will suffice to illustrate the vast diversity and possibilities offered by the present invention.

[0181] Figure 7 also shows how the entire mounting surface of the front of the busbar 200 can be used for electrical equipment 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b, completely disregarding the presence of the power module 300 or support module 400 on the rear.

[0182] Finally, Figures 8A to 9B, which have already been referenced, show in more detail some electrical devices 510a, 510b, 520a, 520b that can be used with the busbar 200 of the present invention. They are specifically used to illustrate how electrical devices 510a, 510b of the first connection type and electrical devices 520a, 520b of the second connection type can be installed onto the same busbar 200 without any problems.

[0183] Figure 8A shows a fuse switch disconnector, and Figure 8B shows a power supply.

[0184] Figure 8C shows advantageous details of the second opening 222-i of the busbar plate 200. Specifically, the second opening 222-3 in the top row of Figure 8C, the second opening 222-2 in the middle row of Figure 8C, and the second opening 222-1 in the bottom row of Figure 8C all have different shapes.

[0185] Although they all have the same minimum width w1, the second opening 222-3 in the top row has a simple rectangular shape.

[0186] The second opening 222-1 in the bottom row generally has the same rectangular shape as the second opening 222-3 in the top row, but is additionally provided with a first flared portion 224 with a width w2 greater than the minimum width w1. Therefore, the second openings 222-1 in the bottom row have a shape in which, along their length in the y direction, their width is first w1, then w2, and then w1 again.

[0187] The second opening 222-2 in the middle row has a generally similar shape to the second opening 222-1 in the bottom row, but is additionally provided with a second flared portion 226 with a width w3 greater than the minimum width w1. Therefore, the second openings 222-2 in the middle row have a shape in which, along their length in the y-direction, their widths are first w1, then w3, then w1, then w2, and then w1 again. Here, w2 and w3 can be the same or different; in this example, w3 is less than w2, but still greater than w1.

[0188] The advantages provided by these shapes of the second opening 222-i will now be described with reference to the electrical device 510b of the first connection type, namely the power supply 510b of the first connection type, in conjunction with FIG8B.

[0189] First, if additional clamping is desired or required between the electrical device 510b of the first connection type and the busbar 200, the device 510b may be provided with movable fastening hooks 513-1, 513-2.

[0190] In this example, two fastening hooks 513-1 are arranged parallel to each other between the first row of mechanical contacts 511-1 and the second row of electrical and mechanical interfaces 511-2, 512-2. Two more fastening hooks 513-2 are provided parallel to each other between the second row of electrical and mechanical interfaces 511-2, 512-2 and the third row of electrical and mechanical interfaces 511-3, 512-3.

[0191] Fastening hooks 513-1 and 513-2 are arranged to engage the corresponding edges 225 of the first flared portions 224 in the second openings 222-1 and 222-2 when the interfaces 511-i and 512-i are inserted into the first opening 212-i of the busbar 200, with inclined surfaces on their tops. In FIG8C, these edges 225 are the lower edges of the first flared portions 224 in the figure.

[0192] The fastening hooks 513-1 and 513-2 are configured to move (against, for example, a biasing force provided by a spring) along the longitudinal direction of the mechanical and electrical interfaces 511-1 and 512-2 (or in other words, in the y-direction when the device 510b is pushed into the first opening 212-i). When the user presses the device 510b into the busbar 200 (along the z-direction), the edge 225 interacts with the inclined surface of the top of the fastening hooks 513-i and pushes them along the positive y-direction until the fastening hooks 513-i are fully aligned with the first flared portion 224. At this point, the latches of the fastening hooks 513-i have disengaged from the edge 225, and the biasing force causes them to return to their unbiased state, thus securing the device 510b to the busbar 200 around the edge 225.

[0193] The electrical device 510b of the first connection type is also provided with a release mechanism that can be operated by the user when the device 510b is mounted on the busbar 200. Operating the release mechanism causes the fastening hooks 513-i to move against their biasing forces until they are fully aligned again with the first flared portion 224, at which point the device 510b can be easily pulled away from the busbar 200. The release mechanism may be configured to require a tool (e.g., a screwdriver) to operate to prevent accidental misoperation.

[0194] Another function provided by the shape of the second opening 222-i is to prevent possible misorientation of electrical equipment 510b of the first connection type when it is mounted on the busbar 200.

[0195] As previously mentioned, the layout of the electrical interfaces 512-i of device 510b is asymmetrical: electrical interfaces 512-2 and 512-3 are only located in two rows, not in a third row (the space between mechanical interfaces 511-1 is closed and empty). Therefore, it is important that device 510b is mounted on busbar 200 in the correct orientation, because the power bus 100-i receiving the mechanical contacts 511-1 row will not be electrically connected to device 510b. This is theoretically possible because, in this example, the first opening 212-i of all rows (i.e., for all power buses 100-i) has the same shape.

[0196] To prevent such misoriented installation, the second flare portion 225 is provided in some, but not all, of the second openings 222-i. In this example, only the second opening 222-1 of the middle (in y-coordinate) power bus 100-2 includes the second flare portion 225.

[0197] Accordingly, the mounting surface of device 510b includes only one row of directional protrusions 514. In the example of Figure 8B, these directional protrusions 514 are only provided between the two rows of electrical interfaces 512-2, 512-3. Therefore, device 510b can only be mounted on busbar 200 such that its electrical interface 512-3 enters the first slot 212-3 (with the highest y-coordinate) of the top power bus 100-3, and its electrical interface 512-2 enters the first slot 212-2 (with the middle y-coordinate) of the middle power bus 100-2.

[0198] Figure 8D shows a cross-section (parallel to the yz plane) of the electrical device 510b of the first connection type of Figure 8B, mounted on the busbar 200. Only the components necessary to explain the electrical and mechanical connections near the power module 300 are shown for this device. Behind device 510, device 510a is visible, arranged as in Figure 7.

[0199] Figure 8D specifically illustrates how the directional protrusion 514 of the electrical device 510c enters the second flared portion 226, and how the fastener hooks 513-1 and 513-2 enter the first flared portion 224 of the busbar 200. Figure 8D also shows how the electrical interface 512-i passes through the slot 112 of the first type connection portion 110 of the power busbar 100-i.

[0200] Figure 8E shows another cross-section (parallel to the xz plane) through an electrical device 510a of the first connection type mounted on the busbar of Figures 4A-4D, and in particular shows the mating of the electrical interface 512-i and mechanical interface 511-i of the electrical device 510b with the first opening 212-i in the busbar 200 and the slot 112 in the power bus 100-i.

[0201] Figure 9A shows another fuse switch disconnector, and Figure 9B shows an adapter for all types of electrical and / or electronic equipment.

[0202] Figure 9C shows a cross-section (parallel to the yz plane) of an electrical device 520a of the second connection type mounted on the busbar 200, and in particular shows how the electromechanical interface 521-i engages with the back engagement portion 124 of the second type connection portion 120 of the power bus 100-i, and how the electrical interface 522-i engages with the front contact portion 122 of the second type connection portion 120 of the power bus 100.

[0203] Figure 10 schematically illustrates a method for assembling a busbar according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0204] In step S10, at least one component of the internal portion 265 of the housing 260 of the busbar 200 is provided. This component is preferably a back component, but it could also be a front component or even the entire internal portion 265 itself. The case where the component is a back component will be described below, although this description also applies to back components or components identical to the entire portion. When more than one internal portion 265 is provided, the multiple back components of the internal portion 265 can be secured to each other at their respective side ends in a row, preferably such that they can no longer be separated by non-destructive methods.

[0205] In step S20, at least one power bus 100; 100'; 100” slides longitudinally into at least one rear component of the inner portion 265 from the side end of a component of the inner portion 265. In the case where more than one rear component is provided for more than one inner portion 265, at least one power bus 100; 100'; 100” can slide through multiple rear components of the inner portion 265, and preferably through or at least into all rear components of the inner portion 265, which are arranged and secured to each other in a row.

[0206] In step S30, at least one open end of the back component of at least one internal portion 265 is closed by the back component of the end portion 269 of the housing 260, thereby sealing at least one power bus 100; 100'; 100” therein. Preferably, two open ends of the back component of the internal portion 265 or the row of back components of the internal portion 265 are fixed to the corresponding back component of the end portion 269. As previously mentioned, the back components of the internal portion 265 may be identical to each other and arranged adjacent to each other in a translationally symmetrical manner. In step S40, each back component is coupled (or connected) to the corresponding front component, specifically such that they can no longer be separated (or disassembled) in a non-destructive manner.

[0207] Preferably, some, but preferably all, of the front components of portions 265, 269 include inwardly projecting ridges configured to mate (or connect) with corresponding entry slots 113 in the power buses 100 for inclusion of each power bus 100 in the bus plate 200. Thus, in step S40, when the front components are engaged with the rear components in a non-releasable manner, each projecting ridge aligns and is then inserted into its corresponding entry slot 113. As previously described, this allows for alignment between portions 265, 269 (especially their front components), and consequently, for more precise and stable alignment between the housing 260 and the slots 112 in the first type of connection portion 110 of the power bus 100.

[0208] Reference Symbol List: 100 Power Bus 100' Power Bus 100” Power Bus 110 First Type Connection Part 112 Slot 113 Inlet Slot 120 Second Type Connection Part 120' Second Type Connection Part 121 Upper Edge of Bus 122 Front Contact Part 124 Back Contact Part 125 Recessed Channel 130 Back Power Connection Part 130' Back Power Connection Part 130” Back Power Connection Part 131 Rear End of Back Power Connection Part 131' Rear End of Back Power Connection Part 131” Rear power connection portion, rearmost 135” channel, 1151 Locking portion, 151” Locking portion, 152 Locking portion, 152’ Locking portion, 153” Locking portion, 200 Busbar plate, 212 First opening, 222 Second opening, 224 First flared portion, 225 Lower flange of the first flared portion, 226 Second flared portion, 232 Rear opening, 240 Rear recess, 251 First latch, 252 Second latch, 260 Housing, 265 Inner portion of housing, 269 End portion of housing, 284 Fastener opening, 285 300 Fastener flange 300 Power module 301 Power cable 330 Power connection contact 340 Protrusion 360 Power module housing 370 Receiving volume 381 Fastener element 382 Fastener element 383 Operating member 384 Rotation axis of fastener element 385 First linear portion of fastener element 386 Second linear portion of fastener element 387 Fastener latch 388 Engagement area of ​​fastener latch 390 Operating member 391 First portion of operating member 392 Second portion of operating member 393 Shaft element 394 Cage 396 Pre-tension Spring 398 Rocker Element 399 Actuating Element 400 Support Module 410 Mounting Plate 1000 Power Supply System 510a Electrical Equipment of First Connection Type 510b Electrical Equipment of First Connection Type 511 Mechanical Interface 512 Electrical Interface 513 Fastening Hook 514 Orientation Protrusion 520a Electrical Equipment of Second Connection Type 522b Electrical Equipment of Second Connection Type 521 Electromechanical Interface 522 Electrical Interface 523 Mechanical Interface FS Front RS Back S10..S40 Method Steps

Claims

1. A module (300, 400) for rear-mounted connection to a busbar (200), the busbar including at least one power bus (100; 100'; 100"), the module (300, 400) further having at least two fastener elements (381-i, 382-i), each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) terminating at a latch (387-i), wherein each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) is rotatable. The fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are mounted on the modules (300, 400) and are rotatable between an unlocked position and a locked position. The fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are configured and arranged such that when the bus plate (200) is pulled away from the module (300, 400) in the locked position of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i), the retention of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) on the bus plate (200) is automatically strengthened.

2. The module (300, 400) according to claim 1, wherein, When the modules (300, 400) are coupled to the busbar (200), there is an offset between the rotation axis (384-i) of each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) and the engagement area (388-i) of the latch (387-i) of the corresponding fastener element (381-i, 382-i) in a direction (y) perpendicular to the normal direction (z) from the modules (300, 400) to the busbar (200). y), especially in locked positions.

3. The module (300, 400) according to claim 2, wherein, The latch (387-i) of each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) is oriented towards the corresponding offset ( y）。 4. The module (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, When the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are in their locked positions, the corresponding rotation axis of each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) is closer to the center of the module (300) than the latch (387-i) of the fastener element (381-i, 382-i), or the corresponding rotation axis of each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) is farther from the center of the module (300) than the latch (387-i) of the fastener element (381-i, 382-i).

5. The module (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, comprising at least one pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) facing each other directly or obliquely, their latches (387-i) pointing toward or away from each other, wherein when the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) is in the locked position, the distance between the rotation axes (384-i) of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) is the closest distance between the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i), and particularly more than the closest distance between the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i). The distance between the latches (387-i) of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) is closer, or the distance between the rotation axes (384-i) of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) when the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are greater than the maximum distance between the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i), and in particular greater than the distance between the latches (387-i) of the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the pair of fastener elements (381-i, 382-i).

6. The module (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein, Fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) having at least one latch (387-i) facing the same direction are configured to be operated by a common operating member (383-1, 383-2, 390), preferably moving them from the locked position to the unlocked position, more preferably resisting at least one pre-tensioned spring.

7. The module (300, 400) according to claim 6, wherein, All fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) are operable by a single operating member (390), which includes an actuating element (399), a first portion (391) connected to the actuating element (399), and a second portion (392) connected to the first portion (391). The first portion (391) and the second portion (392) are preferably connected such that actuating the actuating element (399) causes the first portion (391) and the second portion (392) to move in opposite directions. The first portion (391) is configured to switch a first set of fastener elements (381-i) between a locked position and an unlocked position, and the second portion (392) is configured to switch a different second set of fastener elements (382-i) between a locked position and an unlocked position.

8. The module (300) according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein, The fastener element (381-i, 382-i) has an angled shape, having a first linear portion (385-i) extending radially from the rotation axis (384-i) and a second linear portion (386-i) angled to the first portion (385-i), wherein the first linear portion (385-i) is connected to the rotation axis (384-i) and the second linear portion (386-i) terminates at a latch (387-i), the angle preferably being between 10 degrees and 60 degrees.

9. The module (300) according to claim 8, wherein, The first linear portion (385-i) of each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) does not directly point to the latch (387-i) of the corresponding fastener element (381-i, 382-i).

10. The module (300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein, The module is a power module (300) for back-side electrical connection to the busbar (200), a purely mechanical support module (400), a module including a fuse, and / or a module with electronic functions.

11. A system (1000) comprising: Busbar board (200) having a housing (260) in which multiple power buses (100; 100';) are arranged. 100”, the housing (260) having a touch-protected front, electrical and / or mechanical interfaces (511-i, 512-i, 513-i, 521-i, 522-i, 523-i) being accessible through the touch-protected front to the housing (260) for contact with the power bus (100; 100'; 100”), and a module (300, 400) according to any one of claims 1 to 10 for rear-side connection to the bus plate (200), wherein the bus plate (200) is configured to dock with the module (300, 400).

12. The system (1000) according to claim 11, wherein, For each power bus (100; 100'; 100") of the busbar (200), the module (300) has at least one power connection contact (330-i) arranged to enter at least one rear opening (232-i) of the busbar (200) when the busbar (200) is mated with the module (300), and the housing (260) of the busbar (200) also provides for each power bus (100; 100'; 100") The module (300) has at least one rear opening (232-i) for receiving a power connection contact (330-i) of the module (300), the power connection contact being used to contact the corresponding rear power connection portion (130; 130'; 130") of the corresponding power bus (100; 100'; 100") to feed power to and / or receive power from the corresponding power bus (100; 100'; 100").

13. The system (1000) according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, The busbar (200) also includes a fastener opening (284-i), through which the fastener elements (381-i, 382-i) of the modules (300, 400) can be connected to the corresponding fastener mating elements (285-i) of the busbar (200). Each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) in its unlocked position is capable of being inserted into and removed from the fastener opening of the busbar (200), and each fastener element (381-i, 382-i) in its locked position engages with the fastener mating element (285-i) after being inserted into the fastener opening, thereby securing the busbar (200) to the module (300, 400).

14. The system (1000) according to claim 13, wherein, The fastener mating element is the fastener flange (285-i).

15. The system (1000) according to any one of claims 11 to 14, wherein, The modules (300, 400) include a housing (360) having a plurality of protrusions (340), and the housing (260) of the busbar (200) includes a plurality of back recesses (240) configured to receive the plurality of protrusions (340) in a close-fitting manner for securing the busbar (200) in a direction (x, y) parallel to the front face (FS) of the power busbar (100; 100'; 100") when the busbar (200) is mated with the modules (300, 400).

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