A circuit breaker

Abstract

The utility model provides a circuit breaker, its characterized in that, the circuit breaker includes: first mechanical switch, connects on main line, first electronic switch circuit, with first mechanical switch parallel and include one or more metal - oxide semiconductor field effect transistor (MOSFET) and one or more inductance, wherein, under the condition that first mechanical switch closes, when the current on main line is greater than or equal to current threshold value, first mechanical switch disconnects, and first electronic switch circuit enters wave -by -wave current -limiting mode, and under the condition that first mechanical switch disconnects and first electronic switch circuit is in wave -by -wave current -limiting mode, when the current on main line is less than current threshold value, first mechanical switch closes, and one or more MOSFET in first electronic switch circuit shuts off.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The utility model relates to a circuit breaker. BACKGROUND

[0002] In fields such as new energy power systems, energy storage systems, data centers, electric vehicles, etc., circuit breakers are required to provide high-reliability short-circuit protection for branches. For example, when a short circuit occurs in one of the branches, the circuit breaker can not cut off the power supply to other non-short-circuit branches during the process of tripping the branch where the short circuit occurs. However, the existing circuit breaker structure cannot achieve this function.

[0003] Therefore, the utility model provides a circuit breaker, which realizes high-reliability short-circuit protection for branches by connecting a mechanical switch and an electronic switch circuit in parallel. SUMMARY

[0004] According to an aspect of the utility model, a circuit breaker is provided, characterized in that the circuit breaker comprises: a first mechanical switch connected to a main line; and a first electronic switch circuit connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch and comprising one or more metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and one or more inductors, wherein, in the case where the first mechanical switch is closed, when the current on the main line is greater than or equal to a current threshold, the first mechanical switch is opened, and the first electronic switch circuit enters a wave-by-wave current limiting mode; and in the case where the first mechanical switch is opened and the first electronic switch circuit is in the wave-by-wave current limiting mode, when the current on the main line is less than the current threshold, the first mechanical switch is closed, and the one or more MOSFETs in the first electronic switch circuit are turned off.

[0005] In some examples, in the case where the first mechanical switch is closed, when the current on the main line is less than the current threshold, the first mechanical switch remains closed.

[0006] In some examples, the circuit breaker further comprises a capacitor connected between the main line and a zero line, and the capacitor is connected upstream or downstream of the first electronic switch circuit.

[0007] In some examples, the first electronic switch circuit further comprises one or more diodes.

[0008] In some examples, the first electronic switch circuit is implemented as a step-down direct current (DC)-DC converter, and the MOSFETs of the first electronic switch circuit are connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch.

[0009] In some examples, the first electronic switch circuit is implemented as a step-up DC-DC converter.

[0010] In some examples, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a buck-boost DC-DC converter.

[0011] In some examples, the first electronic switching circuit also includes one or more capacitors, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a single-ended primary inductor converter or a non-isolated buck-boost DC-DC converter.

[0012] In some examples, one of one or more capacitors is connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit, and the circuit breaker further includes: a second mechanical switch connected to the main line and symmetrical to the first mechanical switch relative to the capacitor connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit; and a second electronic switching circuit connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and symmetrical to the first electronic switching circuit relative to the capacitor connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0013] In some examples, the first electronic switching circuit also includes multiple capacitors, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a half-bridge AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter or a combination of a T-type three-level AC-DC converter and a T-type three-level DC-AC converter.

[0014] In some examples, the first electronic switching circuit also includes multiple capacitors and multiple diodes, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a Vienna AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter or a combination of a Type I three-level AC-DC converter and a Type I three-level DC-AC converter.

[0015] In some examples, when the first mechanical switch is closed, in response to a short circuit in at least one of the branches connected to the main line, the current on the main line rises to a current threshold greater than or equal to the current threshold.

[0016] In some examples, when the first mechanical switch is open and the first electronic switch circuit is in wave-by-wave current limiting mode, the current on the main line drops below a current threshold in response to the tripping of the at least one branch that has experienced a short circuit. Attached Figure Description

[0017] The aspects, features, and advantages of this utility model will become clearer and more readily understood from the following description of the embodiments in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0018] Figures 1A-1B An example topology of a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0019] Figures 2A-2E The operation of a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0020] Figures 3A-3E An example topology for a DC circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown; and

[0021] Figures 4A-4D An example topology for an AC circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The present invention will now be described in detail with reference to exemplary embodiments thereof. However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and may be embodied in many different forms. The described embodiments are only intended to thoroughly and completely convey the concept of the present invention to those skilled in the art. Features of the various described embodiments may be combined with or substituted for each other, unless expressly excluded or should be excluded based on the context.

[0023] In the embodiments of this utility model, unless otherwise explicitly stated, "connection" or "connection" does not necessarily mean "direct connection" or "direct contact," but only requires electrical connection. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," or similar expressions used herein are for descriptive and distinguishing purposes only and do not indicate any priority or order, nor should they be construed as indicating or implying the relative importance of the corresponding components, nor do they represent whether the described parameter values ​​are the same or different.

[0024] Figure 1A An example topology of a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0025] like Figure 1A As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch may be connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0026] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, and a first diode D1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0027] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 may be connected in parallel with the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit. For example, the first mechanical switch S1 may be connected between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0028] like Figure 1AAs shown, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a buck DC-DC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1 and the first inductor L1 of the first electronic switching circuit can be connected in series on the main line, wherein one end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the source of the first MOSFET Q1, and the other end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the downstream circuit, such as a branch. The first diode D1 is connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, the anode of the first diode D1 is connected to the neutral line N, and the cathode is connected to the source of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0029] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a first capacitor C1. The first capacitor C1 may be connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Figure 1A As shown, the first capacitor C1 can be connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit. Furthermore, the circuit breaker may also include a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode. The TVS diode can be connected upstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0030] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit. For example, when the first mechanical switch S1 is closed, if the control unit detects that the current on the main line is greater than or equal to the current threshold, the control unit may send a control signal to the first mechanical switch S1 to open it and send a control signal to the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit to turn it on, causing the first electronic switch circuit to enter a wave-by-wave current limiting mode. As another example, when the first mechanical switch S1 is open and the first electronic switch circuit is in wave-by-wave current limiting mode, if the control unit detects that the current on the main line is less than the current threshold, the control unit may send a control signal to the first mechanical switch S1 to close it and send a control signal to the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit to turn it off. In some embodiments, the current threshold may be pre-configured. The following will describe the situation with reference to FIG2. Figure 1A The circuit breaker's operating procedure is shown.

[0031] Figure 1B Another example topology of a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0032] like Figure 1BAs shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1, a second mechanical switch S2, a first electronic switch circuit, and a second electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 and the second mechanical switch S2 may be connected in series on the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1, and the second electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch S2.

[0033] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, and a first diode D1. The second electronic switching circuit may include a second MOSFET Q2, a second inductor L2, and a second diode D2. In some embodiments, a companion diode may be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1 and between the source and drain of the second MOSFET Q2, respectively.

[0034] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 may be connected in parallel with the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit, and the second mechanical switch S2 may be connected in parallel with the second MOSFET Q2 in the second electronic switch circuit. For example, the first mechanical switch S1 may be connected between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1, and the second mechanical switch S2 may be connected between the source and drain of the second MOSFET Q2.

[0035] The first and second electronic switching circuits are implemented as step-down DC-DC converters. The circuit breaker may also have a first capacitor C1, and the first and second electronic switching circuits are symmetrical with respect to the first capacitor C1, i.e., they are mirror images of each other.

[0036] Figures 2A-2E The operation of a circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. It should be understood that, although... Figures 2A-2E by Figure 1A The circuit breaker shown is described as an example, but those skilled in the art can extend it to circuit breakers with other topologies. Figures 2A-2E In the image, the arrow indicates the direction of current flow.

[0037] like Figure 2A As shown, when no short circuit occurs in the downstream branch, the current in the main line is less than the current threshold, and therefore, the first mechanical switch S1 of the circuit breaker closes, and the first capacitor C1 charges. At this time, the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit is turned off. The current in the main line can be sampled by the control unit (not shown) of the circuit breaker, and the sampled current can be compared with the current threshold. For example, the current of the first inductor L1 in the main line can be sampled by the control unit (not shown) of the circuit breaker, and the sampled current can be compared with the current threshold.

[0038] likeFigure 2B As shown, when a short circuit occurs in the downstream branch of the circuit breaker, the first mechanical switch S1 remains closed, the first capacitor C1 discharges, and the short-circuit current is provided by the first capacitor C1 and the power supply.

[0039] like Figure 2C As shown, when a short circuit occurs in the downstream branch of the circuit breaker, the current in the main line rises and exceeds or equals the current threshold. Consequently, the first mechanical switch S1 opens, and the first electronic switch circuit enters the wave-by-wave current limiting mode, i.e., the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit turns on, and the first capacitor C1 charges. In some embodiments, the opening of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on of the first MOSFET Q1 can be controlled by the control unit (not shown) of the circuit breaker.

[0040] In some embodiments, methods such as delayed arc extinguishing, forced arc extinguishing, or increasing arc extinguishing capacity can be used to eliminate the arc generated when the first mechanical switch S1 is opened. For example, for the delayed arc extinguishing method, an additional capacitor can be provided for the first mechanical switch S1, and when the first mechanical switch S1 is opened, a reverse current can be generated in a short time by charging the capacitor to eliminate the residual current and achieve the arc extinguishing effect. As another example, for the forced arc extinguishing method, an arc extinguishing chamber can be provided in the first mechanical switch S1, and when the first mechanical switch S1 is opened, high-pressure gas can be injected into the arc extinguishing chamber to extinguish the arc. As yet another example, for the method of increasing arc extinguishing capacity, the size of the arc extinguishing chamber provided in the first mechanical switch S1 can be increased to provide more sufficient arc cooling space. However, the present invention is not limited to these methods, and any suitable method can be used to eliminate the arc generated when the first mechanical switch S1 is opened.

[0041] Next, as Figure 2D As shown, when the current on the main line is still greater than or equal to the current threshold, the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit is turned off, the first capacitor C1 discharges, and the diode D1 in the first electronic switch circuit stores current. In some embodiments, the turning off of the first MOSFET Q1 can be controlled by the control unit (not shown) of the circuit breaker.

[0042] like Figure 2E As shown, when the downstream branch where the short circuit occurred has tripped, the current on the main line decreases to less than the current threshold, and therefore, the first mechanical switch S1 of the circuit breaker closes, the first capacitor C1 charges, and the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switch circuit turns off. In some embodiments, the closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning off of the first MOSFET Q1 can be controlled by the control unit (not shown) of the circuit breaker.

[0043] pass Figure 1A The circuit breaker shown andFigures 2A-2E The working process allows the main line current to flow through the first mechanical switch S1 when the downstream branch is operating normally, reducing losses to the first electronic switch circuit. When a short circuit occurs in the downstream branch, the first mechanical switch S1 opens and the first electronic switch circuit enters a wave-by-wave current-limiting mode. During this period, the short-circuited downstream branch can trip, while the non-short-circuited downstream branches can maintain power supply. Once the short-circuit fault in the downstream branch is resolved, i.e., after the short-circuited downstream branch has tripped, the first mechanical switch can be closed again, and the MOSFET in the first electronic switch circuit can be turned off.

[0044] Figures 3A-3D Example topologies for circuit breakers suitable for DC are shown respectively. Figure 3A An example topology for a DC circuit breaker according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0045] like Figure 3A As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switching circuit. The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, and a first diode D1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1. The first electronic switching circuit is also implemented as a buck DC-DC converter.

[0046] Figure 3A The circuit breaker topology shown is similar to Figure 1A The circuit breaker topologies shown are basically the same, the only difference being in... Figure 3A In this configuration, the first capacitor C1 is connected upstream of the first electronic switch, specifically between the drain of the first MOSFET Q1 and the neutral line. For Figure 3A Other electronic components included in the topology shown will not be described further here to avoid redundancy.

[0047] Figure 3B Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for DC according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0048] like Figure 3B As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0049] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, and a first diode D1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0050] like Figure 3BAs shown, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a boost DC-DC converter. Specifically, the first inductor L1 and the first diode D1 of the first electronic switching circuit can be connected in series on the main line, wherein the anode of the first diode D1 is connected to the first inductor L1, and the cathode of the first diode D1 is connected to the downstream circuit, such as a branch. The first MOSFET Q1 is connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, the source of the first MOSFET Q1 is connected to the neutral line N, and the drain is connected to the anode of the first diode D1.

[0051] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 is connected in parallel with the first inductor L1 and the first diode D1, which are connected in series.

[0052] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may also include a first capacitor C1. The first capacitor C1 may be connected between the main line and the neutral line N. For example... Figure 3B As shown, the first capacitor C1 can be connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit. Furthermore, the circuit breaker may also include a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode. The TVS diode can be connected upstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0053] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0054] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a second mechanical switch and a second electronic switch circuit. Specifically, the second mechanical switch is connected to the main line and is symmetrical to the first mechanical switch relative to the first capacitor C1. The second electronic switch circuit is connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and is symmetrical to the first electronic switch circuit relative to the first capacitor C1.

[0055] Figure 3C Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for DC according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0056] like Figure 3C As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0057] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a second MOSFET Q2, and a first inductor L1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1 and between the source and drain of the second MOSFET Q2, respectively.

[0058] exist Figure 3C In this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a buck-boost DC-DC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1 and the first inductor L1 of the first electronic switching circuit can be connected in series on the main line, wherein one end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the source of the first MOSFET Q1, and the other end of the first inductor L1 is connected to the downstream circuit, such as a branch. The second MOSFET Q2 is connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, the source of the second MOSFET Q2 is connected to the neutral line N, and the drain is connected to the source of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0059] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 is connected in parallel with the first MOSFET Q1 and the first inductor L1, which are connected in series.

[0060] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may also include a first capacitor C1. The first capacitor C1 may be connected between the main line and the neutral line N. For example... Figure 3C As shown, the first capacitor C1 can be connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit. Furthermore, the circuit breaker may also include a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode. The TVS diode can be connected upstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0061] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 and the second MOSFET Q2 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0062] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a second mechanical switch and a second electronic switch circuit. Specifically, the second mechanical switch is connected to the main line and is symmetrical to the first mechanical switch relative to the first capacitor C1. The second electronic switch circuit is connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and is symmetrical to the first electronic switch circuit relative to the first capacitor C1.

[0063] Figure 3D Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for DC according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0064] like Figure 3D As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0065] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, and a first diode D1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0066] exist Figure 3D In this circuit, the first electronic switch circuit is implemented as a single-ended primary inductor converter. Specifically, the first inductor L1, the first capacitor C1, and the first diode D1 of the first electronic switch circuit can be connected in series on the main line, wherein one end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the positive terminal of the first diode D1, and the other end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the first inductor L1, and the negative terminal of the first diode D1 is connected to the downstream circuit, such as a branch. The first MOSFET Q1 is connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, the source of the first MOSFET Q1 is connected to the neutral line N, and the drain is connected between the first inductor L1 and the first capacitor C1.

[0067] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 is connected in parallel with the first inductor L1, the first capacitor C1 and the first diode D1, which are connected in series.

[0068] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may also include a second capacitor C2. The second capacitor C2 may be connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Figure 3D As shown, the second capacitor C2 can be connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit. Furthermore, the circuit breaker may also include a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode. The TVS diode can be connected upstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0069] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0070] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a second mechanical switch and a second electronic switch circuit. Specifically, the second mechanical switch is connected to the main line and is symmetrical to the first mechanical switch with respect to the second capacitor C2. The second electronic switch circuit is connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and is symmetrical to the first electronic switch circuit with respect to the second capacitor C2.

[0071] Figure 3E Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for DC according to an embodiment of the present invention is shown.

[0072] like Figure 3EAs shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0073] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, and a first diode D1. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of the first MOSFET Q1.

[0074] exist Figure 3E In this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a non-isolated buck-boost DC-DC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1, the first capacitor C1, and the second inductor L2 of the first electronic switching circuit can be connected in series on the main line, wherein the source of the first MOSFET Q1 is connected to one end of the first capacitor C1. The first capacitor L1 and the first diode D1 are respectively connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, one end of the first capacitor L1 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the source of the first MOSFET Q1, and the anode of the first diode D1 is connected to the neutral line N and the cathode is connected between the first capacitor C1 and the second inductor L2.

[0075] In some embodiments, the first mechanical switch S1 is connected in parallel with the first MOSFET Q1, the first capacitor C1, and the second inductor L2, which are connected in series.

[0076] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may also include a second capacitor C2. The second capacitor C2 may be connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Figure 3E As shown, the second capacitor C2 can be connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit. Furthermore, the circuit breaker may also include a transient voltage suppressor (TVS) diode. The TVS diode can be connected upstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

[0077] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0078] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a second mechanical switch and a second electronic switch circuit. Specifically, the second mechanical switch is connected to the main line and is symmetrical to the first mechanical switch with respect to the second capacitor C2. The second electronic switch circuit is connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and is symmetrical to the first electronic switch circuit with respect to the second capacitor C2.

[0079] Figures 4A-4DExample topologies for circuit breakers suitable for AC are shown respectively. Figure 4A An example topology for an AC circuit breaker according to the present invention is shown.

[0080] like Figure 4A As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0081] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a second MOSFET Q2, a third MOSFET Q3, a fourth MOSFET Q4, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, and a second capacitor C2. In some embodiments, a companion diode may be connected in parallel between the source and drain of each of the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4.

[0082] exist Figure 4A In this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a half-bridge AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1 and the second MOSFET Q2 of the first electronic switching circuit can be implemented as a half-bridge AC-DC converter, and the third MOSFET Q3 and the fourth MOSFET Q4 can be implemented as a half-bridge DC-AC converter. Specifically, the drain of the first MOSFET Q1 is connected to the drain of the third MOSFET Q3, and the source of the second MOSFET Q2 is connected to the source of the fourth MOSFET Q4. The first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2 are connected between the main line and the neutral line N, respectively. Specifically, one end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the drain of the first MOSFET Q1, and one end of the second capacitor C2 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the source of the second MOSFET Q2.

[0083] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0084] Figure 4B Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for AC according to the present invention is shown.

[0085] like Figure 4BAs shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0086] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1, a second MOSFET Q2, a third MOSFET Q3, a fourth MOSFET Q4, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, a second capacitor C2, a first diode D1, and a second diode D2. In some embodiments, a companion diode may be connected in parallel between the source and drain of each of the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4.

[0087] exist Figure 4B In this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a Vienna AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1, the second MOSFET Q2, the first diode D1, and the second diode D2 of the first electronic switching circuit can be implemented as a Vienna AC-DC converter, and the third MOSFET Q3 and the fourth MOSFET Q4 can be implemented as a half-bridge DC-AC converter. Specifically, the cathode of the first diode D1 is connected to the drain of the third MOSFET Q3, and the anode of the second diode D2 is connected to the source of the fourth MOSFET Q4. The first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2 are connected between the main line and the neutral line N, respectively. Specifically, one end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the cathode of the first diode D1 and the other end is connected to the neutral line N, and one end of the second capacitor C2 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the anode of the second diode D2.

[0088] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0089] Figure 4C Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for AC according to the present invention is shown.

[0090] like Figure 4C As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0091] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1 to an eighth MOSFET Q8, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, and a second capacitor C2. In some embodiments, a companion diode may be connected in parallel between the source and drain of each of the first MOSFET Q1 to the eighth MOSFET Q8.

[0092] exist Figure 4C In this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a T-type three-level AC-DC converter and a T-type three-level DC-AC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4 of the first electronic switching circuit can be implemented as a T-type three-level AC-DC converter, and the fifth MOSFET Q5 to the eighth MOSFET Q8 can be implemented as a T-type three-level DC-AC converter. The first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2 are respectively connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, one end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the drain of the first MOSFET Q1 and the other end is connected to the neutral line N, and one end of the second capacitor C2 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the source of the second MOSFET Q2.

[0093] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 to the eighth MOSFET Q8 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0094] Figure 4D Another example topology of a circuit breaker suitable for AC according to the present invention is shown.

[0095] like Figure 4D As shown, the circuit breaker may include a first mechanical switch S1 and a first electronic switch circuit. The first mechanical switch S1 is connected to the main line. The first electronic switch circuit may be connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch S1.

[0096] The first electronic switching circuit may include a first MOSFET Q1 to an eighth MOSFET Q8, a first inductor L1, a second inductor L2, a first capacitor C1, a second capacitor C2, and a first diode D1 to a fourth diode D4. In some embodiments, a companion diode may also be connected in parallel between the source and drain of each of the first MOSFET Q1 to the eighth MOSFET Q8.

[0097] exist Figure 4CIn this circuit, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a Type I three-level AC-DC converter and a Type I three-level DC-AC converter. Specifically, the first MOSFET Q1 to the fourth MOSFET Q4 and the first diode D1 to the second diode D2 of the first electronic switching circuit can be implemented as a Type I three-level AC-DC converter, and the fifth MOSFET Q5 to the eighth MOSFET Q8 and the third diode D3 to the fourth diode D4 can be implemented as a Type I three-level DC-AC converter. The first capacitor C1 and the second capacitor C2 are respectively connected between the main line and the neutral line N. Specifically, one end of the first capacitor C1 is connected to the drain of the first MOSFET Q1 and the other end is connected to the neutral line N, and one end of the second capacitor C2 is connected to the neutral line N and the other end is connected to the source of the fourth MOSFET Q4.

[0098] In some embodiments, the circuit breaker may further include a control unit. The control unit may be configured to detect the current on the main line and, based on a comparison of the detected current with a current threshold, control the opening and closing of the first mechanical switch S1 and the turning on and off of the first MOSFET Q1 to the eighth MOSFET Q8 in the first electronic switching circuit. The current threshold may be pre-configured.

[0099] It should be noted that, for clarity and simplicity, only the parts related to the embodiments of the present invention are shown in the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art should understand that the devices or apparatus shown in the drawings may include other necessary elements.

[0100] The block diagrams of circuits, devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems involved in this utility model are merely illustrative examples and are not intended to require or imply that they must be connected, arranged, or configured in the manner shown in the block diagrams. As those skilled in the art will recognize, these circuits, devices, apparatuses, equipment, and systems can be connected, arranged, and configured in any manner that achieves the desired purpose. The quantities involved in this utility model are merely illustrative.

[0101] Those skilled in the art will understand that, for the sake of convenience and brevity, the specific working processes of the systems, devices, and units described above can be referred to the corresponding processes in the foregoing method embodiments, and will not be repeated here.

[0102] In the embodiments provided in this application, it should be understood that the disclosed systems and devices can be implemented in other ways. For example, the device embodiments described above are merely illustrative. For instance, the division of units is only a logical functional division, and in actual implementation, there may be other division methods. For example, multiple units or components may be combined or integrated into another system, or some features may be ignored or not executed. Furthermore, the coupling or direct coupling or communication connection shown or discussed may be through some interfaces; the indirect coupling or communication connection between devices or units may be electrical, mechanical, or other forms.

[0103] The units described as separate components may or may not be physically separate. The components shown as units may or may not be physical units; they may be located in one place or distributed across multiple network units. Some or all of the units can be selected to achieve the purpose of this embodiment according to actual needs.

[0104] Furthermore, in the various embodiments of this utility model, the functional units can be integrated into one processing unit, or each unit can exist physically separately, or two or more units can be integrated into one unit. The integrated unit can be implemented in hardware or as a software functional unit.

[0105] Those skilled in the art should understand that the specific embodiments described above are merely examples and not limitations. Various modifications, combinations, partial combinations, and substitutions can be made to the embodiments of this utility model according to design requirements and other factors, as long as they are within the scope of the appended claims or their equivalents, and thus fall within the scope of the rights to be protected by this utility model.

Claims

1. A circuit breaker, characterized in that, The circuit breaker includes: The first mechanical switch is connected to the main circuit; A first electronic switching circuit, connected in parallel with a first mechanical switch, includes one or more metal-oxide-semiconductor field-effect transistors (MOSFETs) and one or more inductors. Specifically, when the first mechanical switch is closed, if the current on the main circuit is greater than or equal to the current threshold, the first mechanical switch opens, and the first electronic switch circuit enters the wave-by-wave current limiting mode. When the first mechanical switch is open and the first electronic switch circuit is in wave-by-wave current limiting mode, when the current on the main line is less than the current threshold, the first mechanical switch closes and one or more MOSFETs in the first electronic switch circuit turn off.

2. The circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first mechanical switch is closed, it remains closed when the current on the main line is less than the current threshold.

3. The circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The circuit breaker also includes a capacitor connected between the main line and the neutral line, and the capacitor is connected upstream or downstream of the first electronic switching circuit.

4. The circuit breaker according to claim 3, characterized in that, The first electronic switching circuit also includes one or more diodes.

5. The circuit breaker according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a buck DC-DC converter, and the MOSFET of the first electronic switching circuit is connected in parallel with the first mechanical switch.

6. The circuit breaker according to claim 4, characterized in that, Furthermore, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a boost DC-DC converter.

7. The circuit breaker according to claim 3, characterized in that, Furthermore, the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a buck-boost DC-DC converter.

8. The circuit breaker according to claim 4, characterized in that, The first electronic switching circuit also includes one or more capacitors, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a single-ended primary inductor converter or a non-isolated buck-boost DC-DC converter.

9. The circuit breaker according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that, One of the one or more capacitors is connected downstream of the first electronic switching circuit, and the circuit breaker further includes: The second mechanical switch is connected to the main circuit and is symmetrical to the first mechanical switch relative to the capacitor connected downstream of the first electronic switch circuit. as well as The second electronic switch circuit is connected in parallel with the second mechanical switch and is symmetrical to the first electronic switch circuit with respect to the capacitor connected downstream of the first electronic switch circuit.

10. The circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first electronic switching circuit also includes multiple capacitors, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a half-bridge AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter or a combination of a T-type three-level AC-DC converter and a T-type three-level DC-AC converter.

11. The circuit breaker according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first electronic switching circuit also includes multiple capacitors and multiple diodes, and the first electronic switching circuit is implemented as a combination of a Vienna AC-DC converter and a half-bridge DC-AC converter or a combination of a Type I three-level AC-DC converter and a Type I three-level DC-AC converter.

12. The circuit breaker according to claim 1, characterized in that, When the first mechanical switch is closed, in response to a short circuit in at least one of the branches connected to the main line, the current on the main line rises to a level greater than or equal to the current threshold.

13. The circuit breaker according to claim 12, characterized in that, When the first mechanical switch is open and the first electronic switch circuit is in wave-by-wave current limiting mode, in response to the tripping of the at least one branch that has experienced a short circuit, the current on the main line drops to less than the current threshold.

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