Surge protection system and method for operating a surge protection system

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a surge protection system and a method for operating a surge protection system. The invention relates to a surge protection system (10) comprising a surge protection module (18) having surge protection functionality and a disconnection module (22) connected in series with the surge protection module (18). The disconnection module (22) is capable of carrying a pulse current and at least limiting a mains current continuation. Furthermore, the disconnection module (22) has a voltage maintenance capability. The surge protection system (10) has a trip circuit (26) arranged in parallel with the disconnection module (22) such that in the event of a defect occurring in the surge protection module (18) there is a current path via the trip circuit (26) and the surge protection module (18). The trip circuit (26) comprises a trip element (30) and a current limiting unit (32) limiting the current flowing through the trip element (30) in the event of a defect occurring in the surge protection module (18). The trip element (30) is arranged to trip in the event of a defect occurring in the surge protection module (18) and to activate an output (34) signaling the event of a defect occurring in the surge protection module (18). Furthermore, a method for operating a surge protection system (10) is described.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a surge protection system. It also relates to a method for operating the surge protection system. Background Technology

[0002] Surge protection systems typically employ surge protection modules, which are known from existing technology and used in a wide range of applications. The primary application areas for surge protection using these modules are at the power inlet points of buildings or in branched power distribution systems.

[0003] Surge protection modules are used in, for example, stand-alone surge protection devices (SPDs). Surge protection modules typically operate to become low impedance in the event of transient or temporary overvoltage events to dissipate the energy of the surge pulse. Overload and operating conditions outside the specified ratings of the surge protection module may cause it to fail.

[0004] Typically, defects in surge protection modules result in permanently low impedance behavior, causing upstream protection elements (“overcurrent protection” – OCP) such as fuses or miniature circuit breakers (“MCBs”) to trip. To prevent complete voltage breakdown due to overcurrent shutdown in the energy distribution system, additional (pre)fuses are placed downstream of the branch leading to the surge protection module, if necessary.

[0005] However, setting the dimensions of these (pre)fuses is complex because two criteria must be met, making proper dimension setting difficult. On the one hand, the dimensions of the (pre)fuses cannot be designed too small so that surge currents or lightning surge currents (also known as current pulses) do not cause tripping; on the other hand, the dimensions of each (pre)fuses cannot be set too large to prevent faulty surge protection modules from being damaged due to high thermal stress. In principle, such (pre)fuses are provided to trip at currents in the kiloampere range.

[0006] Furthermore, it is known from the prior art that surge protection devices have an integrated fuse that trips in the event of a short circuit to disconnect the surge protection device from the mains power. Summary of the Invention

[0007] The purpose of this invention is to detect such defects in surge protection modules in a simple manner and to safely disconnect the surge protection module in the event of a malfunction.

[0008] According to the present invention, this objective is achieved by a surge protection system comprising a surge protection module having surge protection functionality and a disconnect module connected in series with the surge protection module. The disconnect module is capable of carrying pulse current and at least limiting mains follow current. Furthermore, the disconnect module has voltage sustaining capability. The surge protection system includes a trip circuit arranged in parallel with the disconnect module, such that in the event of a failure in the surge protection module, there is a current path via the trip circuit and the surge protection module. The trip circuit includes a trip element and a current limiting unit that limits the current flowing through the trip element in the event of a failure in the surge protection module. The trip element is configured to trip in the event of a failure in the surge protection module and activate an output, particularly an indicator, which signals or indicates the event of a failure in the surge protection module.

[0009] According to the invention, this objective is further achieved by a method for operating a surge protection system, the surge protection system comprising a surge protection module with surge protection functionality and a disconnect module, the disconnect module being capable of carrying pulse current and at least limiting mains follow current, and having voltage sustaining capability. The disconnect module is connected in series with the surge protection module. When the surge protection module is intact, surge current or lightning surge current is discharged through the disconnect module and the surge protection module. The surge protection system includes a trip circuit arranged in parallel with the disconnect module, such that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, there is a current path through the trip circuit and the surge protection module, so that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, current flows through this current path, causing the tripping element of the trip circuit to trip, thereby activating an output, in particular an indicator, which signals or indicates the event of a defect in the surge protection module.

[0010] The basic idea of ​​this invention is to connect the disconnect module in series with the surge protection module, particularly in series with its upstream component, and simultaneously arrange the trip circuit in parallel with the disconnect module, so that when the surge protection module is faulty, there is a current path through the trip circuit and the surge protection module. If the surge protection module is faulty and therefore permanently in a low-impedance state, then current flows through the current path in which the trip circuit is arranged. This is because when the surge protection module has become low-impedance, the trip circuit is connected to the mains power. The tripping element of the trip circuit is then correspondingly energized by the current flow and its dimensions are determined for tripping, particularly after a certain duration of current flow, for example, after a few milliseconds. The tripping of the tripping element causes an output (specifically, an indicator) to be activated, which signals or indicates an event of a fault in the surge protection module.

[0011] In this regard, users are informed of the defects in the surge protection module. The voltage sustaining capability of the surge protection system is still guaranteed because the disconnect module connected in series with the surge protection module has voltage sustaining capability.

[0012] In addition, disconnecting the module can disconnect a defective surge protection module from the mains power, thereby protecting the defective surge protection module from irreparable damage.

[0013] Specifically, the disconnect module includes spark gaps, such as corner gaps. This ensures that the disconnect module has an inherent voltage sustaining capability.

[0014] Furthermore, the disconnect module can have a longer service life than the surge protection module. This ensures that the disconnect module remains intact and can take over surge protection functionality in the event of a defect in the surge protection module.

[0015] Specifically, the mains freewheeling current from the surge protection module and / or disconnect module is at least limited. Furthermore, the surge protection module and / or disconnect module can be configured to quench the mains freewheeling current.

[0016] Events leading to defects in surge protection modules include both lifespan-related degradation and overload-induced degradation. In this respect, events leading to defects in surge protection modules correspond to degradation, particularly degradation that causes short circuits. Therefore, events leading to defects in surge protection modules result in short-circuit current flow because the surge protection module has become low impedance due to the defect.

[0017] Due to a defect in the surge protection module, both the disconnect module and the trip circuit remain (permanently) connected to the mains power, causing current to flow through the trip circuit. As a result, the trip element of the trip circuit trips and activates the output accordingly, specifically an indicator.

[0018] The disconnect module has the capability to extinguish short-circuit currents; that is, any short-circuit current can be extinguished by the disconnect module. Therefore, even in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, the surge protection system can still extinguish the short-circuit current.

[0019] Specifically, the disconnect module has an inherent voltage sustaining capability, for example, 6kV. In other words, the disconnect module is designed to discharge current associated with surge voltages higher than, for example, 6kV (especially lightning surge voltages), even if the surge protection module is defective. In other words, current flows across the disconnect module when a voltage of at least, for example, 6kV is applied. Current flow can be limited, and in particular, can be extinguished by the disconnect module.

[0020] In principle, the output can be a visual output, i.e., an indicator. However, alternatively or additionally, the output can also be provided acoustically, electrically, or electromagnetically.

[0021] One aspect specifies that the tripping element is configured to activate, specifically, mechanically, the output of an indicator, particularly by means of a mechanical pulse. The indicator can be a mechanically adjustable red-green indicator, for example, to transition from an initial state where the indicator shows "green" to a tripping state where the indicator shows "red." The red-green indicator can include an indicator element with two regions, each containing a red signal color and a green signal color. Depending on the state of the surge protection system, particularly the surge protection module, one of the two regions is visible, i.e., the region with the green signal color or the region with the red signal color. Therefore, the indicator element can be adjusted by the tripping element between two different positions, in which only one of the two regions is visible. For example, a viewing window is associated with the indicator element such that, in the initial state, the region with the green signal color is visible through the viewing window, while in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, the region with the red signal color is visible through the viewing window.

[0022] Therefore, when the tripping element trips, a mechanical pulse can be generated, which is used to mechanically adjust the mechanical indicator to indicate an event of a defect in the surge protection module.

[0023] Alternatively, mechanical pulses can be used to drive electrical indicators to indicate events of defects in the surge protection module.

[0024] However, in principle, the indicator can also be electrically driven when the tripping element trips. This is especially true when the indicator is a display or similar device.

[0025] The output, which can be configured as acoustic, electrical, and / or electromagnetic, can also be electrically driven to signal, acoustically, electrically, and / or electromagnetically, events indicating a defect in the surge protection module.

[0026] On the other hand, the tripping element is also configured to actuate functional components, particularly disconnecting devices and / or telecommunication units. The mechanical pulse generated when the tripping element trips can (additionally) be used to actuate downstream functional components, for example, to trip the disconnecting device, so that the surge protection module is safely disconnected when the tripping element has already tripped. The telecommunication unit can also be activated, for example, by disconnecting telecommunication contacts when the tripping element trips, particularly due to the mechanical pulse.

[0027] Specifically, the dimensions of the trip circuit and the disconnect module arranged in parallel with the trip circuit are determined such that the disconnect module and the surge protection module discharge surge current, especially lightning surge current, and / or only a negligible portion of the surge current or lightning surge current flows across the trip element during the discharge process, i.e., the latter does not trip during the (normal) discharge process of the surge current or lightning surge current by means of the surge protection module. The surge protection module, when intact, is capable of discharging surge current or lightning surge current and at least limiting or extinguishing the mains follow current. The dimensions of the trip circuit are determined such that its trip element does not trip during the normal operation of the surge protection module, because the surge current, especially lightning surge current, is discharged via the disconnect module and the surge protection module. This is because during the discharge process in normal operation, the surge current or lightning surge current is only of short duration.

[0028] The tripping circuit is set with respect to its characteristics / characteristic curves in a dimension so that the tripping element is not stressed during the discharge of surge current or lightning surge current, thereby preventing the tripping element from tripping.

[0029] On the other hand, if the surge protection module is defective, it permanently becomes low impedance. In this case, the disconnect module takes over the protection of the surge protection module, particularly by limiting or extinguishing the mains follow current. Since the trip circuit and disconnect module are arranged in parallel, in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, the trip circuit and disconnect module are connected to the mains, causing current to flow through the trip element, which is limited by the resistance of the trip circuit. The current flowing through the trip element in the event of a defect in the surge protection module causes the trip element to trip, thereby driving the output, particularly an indicator, to signal or indicate the defect in the surge protection module.

[0030] The current limiting unit can limit the current flowing through the tripping element to less than 50A, particularly less than 10A. Alternatively or additionally, the tripping element can have a tripping characteristic curve that ensures the tripping element trips at currents less than 50A, particularly less than 10A. These parameters ensure reliable fault detection.

[0031] The current-limiting unit ensures that only a low current flows through the tripping element, especially compared to pre-fuse circuit breakers known in the prior art that must conduct surge current or lightning surge current without tripping. If the surge protection module is defective, a 250A pre-fuse circuit breaker used in the prior art will never trip in a mains current of only 100A. Conversely, according to the invention, if the surge protection module is defective, the tripping element can trip directly even without a surge event.

[0032] In this respect, the surge protection system according to the invention ensures that an output, particularly an indicator, is provided regarding a defective surge protection module even in the absence of a surge event. In other words, a defect in the surge protection module is immediately indicated because, in the event of a defect in the surge protection module, the trip circuit is connected to the mains power and is designed to cause the tripping element to trip.

[0033] Therefore, the surge protection system according to the present invention can also detect high (relatively high) impedance defect states of the surge protection module.

[0034] Because the tripping element is subjected to only low current, especially compared to existing fuses, operational safety is improved by avoiding large fault currents that would cause unacceptable heating and thus damage components of the surge protection system.

[0035] On the other hand, the tripping element is specified as a (thermal) fuse, specifically a fusible element. This fuse trips under continuous current load. For example, the fuse element melts, thereby interrupting the current path across the tripping circuit on the one hand, and driving the output, particularly an indication of an event indicating a defect in the surge protection module.

[0036] Alternatively or additionally, surge protection modules include varistors and / or spark gaps. Therefore, surge protection modules have surge protection elements that can be designed differently depending on the application or domain. For example, it is a (metal oxide) varistor (MOV) used for Type 2 and 3 surge protection, while for Type 1 surge protection, a gas discharge tube or spark gap is typically used as the surge protection element.

[0037] In addition, the current limiting unit may include resistors, inductors, semiconductors, especially self-conducting transistors, voltage switching elements, and / or voltage switching elements.

[0038] The disconnect module may include a spark gap. This ensures the properties of the disconnect module. The spark gap ensures that the disconnect module can carry pulse current, limit mains freewheeling current, and even extinguish mains freewheeling current. At the same time, the spark gap ensures the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnect module.

[0039] A surge protection system may include a voltage control element connected in parallel with a surge protection module, wherein the voltage control element is configured to change, in particular reduce, the protection level of the surge protection system. The voltage control element may be a capacitor. In principle, a low protection level of the surge protection system can be achieved due to the voltage control element, which is set by the sum of the response values ​​of the surge protection module and the disconnect module connected in series.

[0040] Furthermore, the tripping element can be configured to change upon tripping, for example, by increasing the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnecting module. The disconnecting module may initially possess voltage sustaining capability, but this capability is altered, for example, increased again, particularly when the surge protection module is faulty, i.e., when the tripping element has already tripped. Any existing overvoltage is then discharged only upon reaching a different, particularly higher, voltage value, for example, starting at 6kV, whereas the initial voltage sustaining capability is, for example, 3kV.

[0041] However, with a mains voltage of 255V, a voltage sustaining capability greater than 2.5kV must be established in the disconnected state. For a mains voltage of 255V, the surge protection module and the disconnecting module are designed, for example, to jointly ensure a protection level of 1.5kV, i.e., a maximum voltage value of 1.5kV. This, in turn, means that the voltage sustaining capability in the initial state can be less than 1.5kV.

[0042] If a higher mains voltage or other conditions are provided, the voltage sustaining capability value will also be higher.

[0043] It can be provided that the tripping element is configured to disconnect the trigger line of the disconnect module. This may result in a correspondingly higher voltage sustaining capability of the disconnect module compared to its initial voltage sustaining capability (i.e., when a trigger is present, due to the trigger line not being disconnected or interrupted).

[0044] Disconnecting the trigger line of the disconnect module causes it to trigger later (i.e., at a higher voltage). For this purpose, a trip circuit can be coupled to the disconnect module. For example, the trigger line is formed by a shunt tap of the trip circuit, provided between the trip element and the current-limiting unit, particularly downstream of the current-limiting unit. When the trip element trips, the trigger line is then disconnected from the mains power, causing the disconnect module to transition to a surge-voltage-tolerant state. The disconnect module, and particularly the spark gap of the disconnect module, then then has a higher voltage sustaining capability.

[0045] However, it is also possible to mechanically interrupt the tripping module's trigger line when the tripping element trips. In other words, when the tripping element trips, the switching mechanism is activated, which disables the triggering of the tripping module, particularly the spark gap of the tripping module. This also results in a higher voltage sustaining capability for the tripping module.

[0046] Therefore, a transient change in state occurs when a tripping element trips. This is because the trigger line is released, for example, disconnected from or interrupted by mains power.

[0047] In principle, a surge protection system can be configured to switch from a first voltage level to a second voltage level when a tripping element trips. This switching occurs by releasing the trigger line when the tripping element trips.

[0048] Releasing the trigger line may cause the disconnect module to trip later (i.e., at a higher voltage).

[0049] For example, a second voltage level may exist after the tripping element has already tripped, which is higher than the first voltage level. Therefore, switching from the first voltage level to the second voltage level will result in an increase in voltage sustaining capability. As mentioned above, this can be achieved by releasing the trigger line, causing the disconnecting module to trip later (i.e., at a higher voltage).

[0050] Surge protection modules and disconnection modules can be housed in a shared enclosure and form a surge protection device. In this respect, the surge protection system is a single unit.

[0051] Alternatively, surge protection modules and tripping modules are designed separately from each other; that is, they are designed as separate devices with their own housings, such as surge protection devices and monitoring devices. The tripping circuit can be integrated into one of these two devices, or it can be provided as a separate, independent device.

[0052] The disconnect module can be designed to be integrated with the trip circuit and output in a single device, which can be referred to as a backup protection device, particularly as an “SPD dedicated disconnector” (SSD) for surge protection devices (SPDs).

[0053] In summary, this allows for a dual-channel configuration of the surge protection system, as it provides a first channel and a second channel.

[0054] The first channel is designed as a surge current discharge path and includes a disconnect module that can interrupt the expected maximum short-circuit current.

[0055] The second channel handles fault current paths at the mains frequency and includes a tripping circuit, specifically including a tripping element and a current limiting unit.

[0056] Tripping elements can have a low I²t characteristic curve.

[0057] The current limiting unit may include at least one impedance element. The impedance element may include components such as a varistor (MOV), a thermistor (PTC / NTC), an inductor, and / or a transformer connected in series or in parallel.

[0058] In the second channel, a pulse transformer may also be provided, which is specifically associated with or present in the trigger line.

[0059] In the event of a surge current, such as a lightning strike, the current is discharged through the first channel as the disconnect module transitions to the conducting state. After the surge current has passed, once the surge protection module, particularly the surge protection element of the surge protection module, returns to a high-impedance state, the first channel, especially the disconnect module, can return to the non-conducting state.

[0060] If the surge protection module, particularly the surge protection element, does not return to a high-impedance state after a surge current or in the event of other faults, then the first channel, particularly the disconnect module, remains conductive and carries the short-circuit current. The disconnect module may include a spark gap with an arc-extinguishing chamber to safely interrupt even these high currents.

[0061] The second channel serves as fuse protection. Among other things, in the event that the disconnect module does not detect a fault current, such as a low-resistance fault without inrush current, the tripping element located in the second channel intervenes and safely disconnects the protection path in which the tripping element is located. This can result in a change in the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnect module.

[0062] In addition, a sensor element can be provided, specifically arranged in the first channel and configured to detect short-circuit current. Therefore, the sensor element detects the occurrence of short-circuit current or surge current in the first channel (i.e., in the discharge path). Upon detecting such an event, signaling and / or triggering protective measures can be performed.

[0063] In addition, a control switch may be provided, which is configured to enable or intentionally suspend monitoring of short-circuit current at the mains frequency depending on the operating state. The control switch is arranged in the second channel such that, in the open position, there is no electrical connection via the second channel.

[0064] In principle, this surge protection system is suitable for use with both AC and DC voltage mains power.

[0065] Specifically, in the direction of current flow in the trip circuit, the current-limiting unit is connected upstream of the tripping element. In other words, the tripping element is positioned between the current-limiting unit and the surge protection module. Furthermore, the trigger line of the disconnect module terminates between the current-limiting unit and the tripping element. After the tripping element trips, this ensures that there is no current path through the disconnect module and the trigger line to the surge protection module. Attached Figure Description

[0066] Further advantages and features of the invention will become clear from the following description and the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0067] Figure 1 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to the present invention is shown.

[0068] Figure 2 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to a first variation of the present invention is shown.

[0069] Figure 3 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to a second variation of the present invention is shown.

[0070] Figure 4 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to a third variation of the present invention is shown.

[0071] Figure 5 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to a fourth variation of the present invention is shown, and

[0072] Figure 6 A schematic representation of a surge protection system according to a fifth variation of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0073] Figure 1 A surge protection system 10 for surge protection or lightning protection is shown, which is integrated into the mains power 12, specifically between a first connection 14 (e.g., phase L) and a second connection 16 (e.g., neutral conductor N, protective ground PE, or functional ground FE).

[0074] The surge protection system 10 includes a surge protection module 18, which includes a surge protection element 20. This surge protection element 20 is essentially a component capable of extinguishing short-circuit current, limiting surges, and / or switching surges. This ensures that the surge protection module 18 has surge protection functionality to discharge surges and at least limit (and particularly, extinguish) mains follow current. The surge protection element 20 may be a varistor, a spark gap, or a combination of a spark gap and a varistor.

[0075] The surge protection module 18 and the disconnection module 22 are connected in series. Therefore, the surge protection module 18 and the disconnection module 22 are arranged between the first connection 14 and the second connection 16.

[0076] The disconnect module 22 is primarily designed to safely disconnect the surge protection module 18 from the mains power 12 in the event of a defect in the surge protection module 18.

[0077] In addition, disconnect module 22 also limits the mains power follow current, especially extinguishes the mains power follow current.

[0078] Generally speaking, the disconnect module 22 can be capable of extinguishing the short-circuit current.

[0079] The disconnect module 22 also has voltage sustaining capability, that is, the disconnect module 22 is initially in a non-conducting state and only transitions to a conducting state when a defined overvoltage is reached (e.g., at a voltage of 6kV).

[0080] Furthermore, the disconnect module 22 can also carry pulse currents, enabling it to discharge surge currents, particularly lightning surge currents, similar to the surge protection module 18. To ensure the properties of the disconnect module 22, it includes, for example, a spark gap 24, particularly a corner gap.

[0081] The surge protection system 10 also includes a trip circuit 26, which is arranged in parallel with the disconnect module 22 such that if the surge protection module 18 is defective, there is a current path between the connections 14 and 16 via the trip circuit 26 and the surge protection module 18, as will be explained below.

[0082] In the illustrated embodiment, the trip circuit 26 is connected to the disconnect module 22 via the trigger line 28.

[0083] The trip circuit 26 includes a trip element 30 and a current limiting unit 32 connected in series, wherein the trigger line 28 is provided as a shunt tap between the trip element 30 and the current limiting unit 32.

[0084] The current limiting unit 32 restricts the current flowing through the tripping element 30 when a fault occurs in the overvoltage protection module 18 and its current path is affected. For example, the current limiting unit 32 limits the current flowing through the tripping element 30 to less than 50A, and more particularly less than 10A.

[0085] In the illustrated embodiment, the tripping element 30 is a fuse element, while the current limiting unit 32 is formed of a (thermal) resistor. Alternatively, the current limiting unit 32 may also be formed of an inductor, a semiconductor, particularly a self-conducting transistor, a voltage switching element, and / or a voltage switching element.

[0086] In principle, the surge protection system 10 is configured to allow surge current or lightning surge current (also known as current pulse) to be discharged via the disconnect module 22 and the surge protection module 18, for example, due to transient or temporary overvoltage. The portion of the surge current or lightning surge current flowing across the trip circuit 26 provided in parallel with the disconnect module 22 is negligible.

[0087] Specifically, due to the presence of overvoltage, both the disconnect module 22 and the surge protection module 18 become low impedance, allowing current to flow from the first connection 14 through the series connection of the disconnect module 22 and the surge protection module 18 to the second connection 16.

[0088] For example, the spark gap 24 of the disconnect module 22 is ignited, causing the disconnect module 22 to become low impedance. Due to transient or temporary overvoltage, the overvoltage protection element 20 (i.e., the varistor and / or the spark gap) also becomes low impedance.

[0089] Therefore, the dimensions of the trip circuit 26 and the disconnect module 22 arranged in parallel with the trip circuit 26 are determined such that the trip element 30 does not trip during the normal discharge process of such surge current or lightning surge current. This is achieved, among other things, by the fact that the current flows only briefly.

[0090] However, if surge protection module 18 is defective, then surge protection module 18 becomes permanently low impedance, which results in disconnecting module 22 and trip circuit 26 from mains power 12, such that, among other things, current flows across the current path in which trip circuit 26 is located.

[0091] The current flowing through tripping element 30 causes it to trip, for example, the fuse element to melt. This can happen in just a few milliseconds.

[0092] Tripping element 30 has a tripping characteristic curve that ensures it will trip even at currents less than 50A (particularly less than 10A). Therefore, tripping of element 30 does not require a surge event; rather, a defect in surge protection module 18 is sufficient. This allows for earlier detection of defects in surge protection module 18, including defects with higher impedance compared to existing technology solutions.

[0093] When the tripping element 30 has tripped, this in turn controls the output 34 (e.g., an indicator) to signal to the user that a fault has occurred in the surge protection module 18.

[0094] In one embodiment, output 34 is a visual indicator, specifically a mechanical red-green indicator, which is adjusted accordingly by mechanical pulses originating from trip element 30.

[0095] In addition, the tripping element 30 changes the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnecting module 22, especially increasing the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnecting module 22.

[0096] This can be achieved by disconnecting the trigger line 28 from the disconnect module 22 when the tripping element 30 trips or is interrupted. This causes the trigger line 28 to be released.

[0097] The trigger current required to activate disconnect module 22 (specifically, to ignite spark gap 24) must flow from the input potential of disconnect module 22 associated with first terminal 14 to the shunt tap on trigger line 28, and then through trip element 30 to the output of disconnect module 22. However, since trip element 30 has tripped, this path is blocked and disconnect module 22 transitions to a surge voltage withstand state. In other words, the voltage sustaining capability of disconnect module 22 is increased.

[0098] The voltage sustaining capability can be 3kV, and this value is adjustable, specifically determined by the application environment and the corresponding height correction factor for that application environment.

[0099] This voltage sustaining capability applies in principle to the entire disconnect module 22, especially the entire spark gap 24; that is, even at this value, the main electrode of the spark gap 24 must not be ignited.

[0100] However, due to the design of the disconnect module 22 (especially the existing spark gap 24), the disconnect module 22 still exhibits short-circuit current extinguishing capability. For example, if the disconnect module 22 becomes active during a 6kV pulse, it means that the spark gap 24 ignites, allowing current to flow across the disconnect module 22. Due to the short-circuit current extinguishing capability of the disconnect module 22, the current flow can then be extinguished.

[0101] Therefore, when the tripping element 30 trips, the surge protection system 10 can switch from the first voltage level to the second voltage level.

[0102] In the example above, the first voltage level is 3kV, while the second voltage level is 6kV, which is higher than the first voltage level. However, as mentioned above, the values ​​can be adjusted, so they are merely illustrative.

[0103] Therefore, it is clear that this design is advantageous over conventional fuses because tripping occurs even under low current or low-current mains power. For example, in a mains power supply with a current of only 100A, the 250A fuse upstream of surge protection module 18 will never trip.

[0104] exist Figure 2 In the embodiment shown, mechanical pulses originating from the tripping element 30 are also used to actuate the functional component 36, particularly to activate the telecommunications unit to report defects.

[0105] Figure 5 and Figure 6 It is also shown that functional component 36 can be formed by a disconnecting device used to disconnect a defective surge protection module 18 to protect the latter.

[0106] exist Figure 6In this configuration, the functional component 36, which is configured as a disconnection device, is arranged after the surge protection module 18, that is, between the surge protection module 18 and the second connection 16, so that the surge protection module 18, the disconnection module 22 and the trip circuit 26 are disconnected from the mains power 12.

[0107] However, in Figure 5 In this circuit, the functional component 36, configured as a disconnecting device, is provided within the trip circuit 26, specifically in the shunt branch terminating between the surge protection module 18 and the disconnecting module 22. This ensures voltage sustaining capability because the functional component 36, designed as a disconnecting device, is actuated to disconnect the trip circuit 26 from the mains power 12. In this respect, this functional component 36 may also be referred to as a disconnecting contact.

[0108] The tripping element 30 provides a high ohmic resistance upon triggering. The voltage drop across the tripping element 30 can be limited by at least one voltage-limiting component 38 (e.g., a varistor). In this case, the functional component 36, which acts as a disconnecting device or disconnecting contact, becomes essential because the tripping element 30, which only trips, no longer allows the triggering to be interrupted.

[0109] exist Figure 3 In the illustrated embodiment, the surge protection system 10 includes an optional voltage control element 40 connected in parallel with the surge protection module 18. The voltage control element 40 is used to change (specifically reduce) the protection level of the surge protection system 10, which is generated by the sum of the response values ​​of the series connection between the surge protection module 18 and the disconnect module 22. For example, the voltage control element 40 is a capacitor.

[0110] Figure 4 Another embodiment is shown in which at least one additional component 42 for adjusting voltage sustaining capability is provided in the trigger line 28. This could be a varistor, a gas discharge tube, a diode, or other voltage switching component. In particular, several such components 42 are also provided, for example, connected in series in the trigger line 28.

[0111] In principle, the triggering and voltage sustaining capabilities can be adjusted via at least one component 42.

[0112] The accompanying drawings also show that the components of the surge protection system 10 are housed in a common housing 44, so that the surge protection system 10 can be formed from a single surge protection device 46.

[0113] Therefore, the surge protection system 10 ensures that when the surge protection module 18 is intact, the surge current or lightning surge current is discharged via the disconnect module 22 and the surge protection module 18. If the surge protection module 18 is defective, the current flows through the current path in the trip circuit 26, causing the trip element 30 of the trip circuit 26 to trip. This drives the output 34, in particular the indicator, which signals or indicates the event of a defect in the surge protection module 18.

[0114] Furthermore, when the tripping element 30 has tripped, especially due to the mechanical pulse generated by the tripping of the tripping element 30, the functional component 36 can be actuated and / or the voltage maintenance capability of the disconnect module 22 can be increased.

[0115] Furthermore, various embodiments can be combined with each other so that the surge protection system 10 can include, for example, a component 42 for adjusting voltage maintenance capability and an additional functional component 36, etc.

[0116] In principle, the surge protection system 10 shown in the foregoing figures can therefore be operated such that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module 18, there exists a current path via the trip circuit 26 and the surge protection module 18, such that, in the event of a defect in the surge protection module 18, current flows through this current path, causing the tripping element 30 of the trip circuit 26 to trip. This at least activates the output 34, in particular the indicator, which signals or indicates the event of a defect in the surge protection module 18.

Claims

1. A surge protection system (10) comprising a surge protection module (18) having surge protection functionality and a disconnect module (22) connected in series with the surge protection module (18), wherein the disconnect module (22) is capable of carrying pulse current and at least limiting mains follow current, and has voltage sustaining capability, wherein the surge protection system (10) includes a trip circuit (26) arranged in parallel with the disconnect module (22), such that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18), There is a current path via a trip circuit (26) and a surge protection module (18), wherein the trip circuit (26) includes a trip element (30) and a current limiting unit (32), the current limiting unit (32) limiting the current flowing through the trip element (30) in the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18), and wherein the trip element (30) is configured to trip in the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18) and drive an output (34) to signal the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18).

2. The surge protection system (10) according to claim 1, characterized in that, The tripping element (30) is configured to mechanically drive the output (34), particularly by means of a mechanical pulse.

3. The surge protection system (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The tripping element (30) is also configured to actuate at least one functional component (36), which is in particular a disconnecting device and / or a telecommunications unit.

4. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The dimensions of the trip circuit (26) and the disconnect module (22) arranged in parallel with the trip circuit (26) are determined such that the disconnect module (22) and the surge protection module (18) discharge surge current during discharge operation.

5. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The current limiting unit (32) limits the current flowing through the tripping element (30) to less than 50A, particularly less than 10A, and / or is characterized in that the tripping element (30) has a tripping characteristic that ensures that the tripping element (30) trips at a current of less than 50A, particularly less than 10A.

6. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The surge protection module (18) includes a varistor and / or a spark gap, characterized in that the disconnect module (22) includes a spark gap, characterized in that the tripping element (30) is a fuse, and / or characterized in that the current limiting unit (32) includes a resistor, an inductor, a semiconductor, particularly a self-conducting transistor, a voltage switching element, and / or a voltage switching element.

7. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The surge protection system (10) includes a voltage control element (40) connected in parallel with the surge protection module (18), wherein the voltage control element (40) is configured to change, in particular reduce, the protection level of the surge protection system (10).

8. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The tripping element (30) is configured to change the voltage maintenance capability of the disconnecting module (22) when the tripping element (30) trips.

9. The surge protection system (10) according to claim 8, characterized in that, The tripping element (30) is configured to disconnect the trigger line (28) of the disconnecting module (22).

10. The surge protection system (10) according to claim 8 or 9, characterized in that, The tripping element (30) is configured to increase the voltage sustaining capability of the disconnecting module (22).

11. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that, The surge protection system (10) is configured to switch from the first voltage level to the second voltage level when the tripping element (30) trips.

12. The surge protection system (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that, The second voltage level is higher than the first voltage level after the tripping element (30) has tripped.

13. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... The surge protection module (18) and the disconnect module (22) are housed in a common housing (44) and form a surge protection device (46).

14. The surge protection system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that... The current limiting unit (32) in the current flow direction of the trip circuit (26) is connected upstream of the trip element (30).

15. A method for operating a surge protection system (10), the surge protection system (10) comprising a surge protection module (18) having surge protection functionality and a disconnect module (22), the disconnect module (22) being capable of carrying surge current and at least limiting mains follow current, and having voltage maintenance capability, wherein the disconnect module (22) is connected in series with the surge protection module (18), wherein, When the surge protection module (18) is intact, the surge current is discharged via the disconnect module (22) and the surge protection module (18), and wherein the surge protection system (10) includes a trip circuit (26) arranged in parallel with the disconnect module (22) such that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18), there is a current path via the trip circuit (26) and the surge protection module (18), so that in the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18), current flows through the current path, which causes the trip element (30) of the trip circuit (26) to trip, thereby activating the output (34) that signals the event of a defect in the surge protection module (18).

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