ELECTRICAL CONNECTION TERMINAL WITH OVERHEAT DETECTION

Abstract

A connection terminal (1), configured for installation in a junction box of an installation provided with a low-voltage electrical network, comprising: - a dielectric body (2) and - at least a pair of connection elements (3) housed in the body (2), where each connection element (3) comprises a conductive connection zone (3a) for the electrical connection of electrical conductors (10), characterized in that it comprises: - at least one temperature sensor (4) integrated into the body (2) and configured to detect overheating in at least one of the conductive connection zones (3a), - at least one electronic processing module (5) integrated into the body (2), communicating with the temperature sensor (4) and configured to receive and store data from a signal generated by the temperature sensor (4), - at least one electronic communication module (6) integrated into the body (2), communicating with the electronic processing module (5) and configured to transmit data to a controller external to the connection terminal (1), and - a self-powering circuit (8) connected to the low-voltage electrical network via the connection elements (3) and configured to provide electrical power to the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processor module (5), and the electronic communication module (6).

Description

ELECTRICAL CONNECTION TERMINAL WITH DETECTION OVERHEATING Technology sector The invention relates to an active electrical connection switch, similar to conventional switches, but with the added capability of detecting overheating in the conductive part and communicating it to an external control system. The invention also relates to a junction box for a low-voltage installation that includes at least one switch according to the invention. State of the art In electrical installations, such as domestic or public ones, the use of terminal blocks or connection terminals is common (see Fig. 1). A conventional terminal block, also known as a terminal strip, is an electrical connector that facilitates the connection of cables and allows for the distribution or interconnection of electrical current. A simple terminal block comprises at least one electrical connector encased in a plastic housing, inside which a cable is clamped against a metal piece by means of a screw or other equivalent means. This facilitates the connection between conductors or cables without the need for soldering or splicing. Different types of terminal blocks exist, with varying current capacities and cable sizes, to suit diverse needs.In the domestic sphere, these terminal blocks or connection lugs are commonly used inside junction boxes, but they can also be installed in electrical panels, lighting systems or industrial equipment. One problem associated with this type of connector is that, over time and due to the continuous flow of electrical current, the internal metal parts of the connectors and / or the cables connected by them can suffer a progressive deterioration of their conductivity. This physical phenomenon causes an increase in resistivity and, as a direct consequence, an increase in temperature at the contact point of the connection. If this heating reaches certain levels, the plastic of the connector can burn. Ultimately, there is a frequent risk of a poor connection, which, in some cases, can even lead to a fire. Electrical protection devices are usually in place to safeguard installations, although these don't always activate in time or effectively. The problem is significantly exacerbated in homes because, in practice, one or more power strips are often hidden inside junction boxes, which are recessed into walls or ceilings and covered by covers. This arrangement of the power strips increases the complexity of the system and makes it even more difficult to visually detect potential faults. This structural invisibility prevents the identification of early signs of overheating or electrical contact degradation, frequently making it impossible to detect the problem before a serious failure occurs. In the industrial sector, several solutions exist for detecting electrical overheating problems. These solutions rely on the use of light detection sensors, such as optical sensors for identifying arc flashes. This type of system is used in medium- or high-voltage installations where a sufficient potential difference can occur to cause such flashes. However, this solution is not applicable to all types of installations; for example, it is not suitable for low-voltage domestic installations where the necessary conditions for detectable arc flashes are not present. The objective of the present invention is an electrical connection between conductors that provides a solution for preventing the progressive and invisible thermal deterioration of the electrical connections, in order to prevent risks associated with overheating of these connections, such as electrical failures, service interruptions, or, in the most serious cases, fires. The solution is applicable primarily, though not exclusively, in domestic and commercial installations. Brief description of the invention The invention relates to an active electrical connection terminal block with integrated thermal detection capability, configured for installation in a junction box of an installation with a low-voltage electrical network. The connection terminal block of the invention, like a conventional terminal block or terminal strip, comprises a dielectric body and at least two connection elements housed within the body. Each connection element comprises a conductive connection area for the electrical connection of external input and output electrical conductors of the terminal block. Additionally, the connection terminal block of the invention features at least one integrated temperature sensor within the body, configured to detect local overheating in at least one area of ​​the conductive connection zones.The connection terminal also comprises at least one electronic processing module, integrated into the body, communicating with one or more temperature sensors and configured to receive and store data from the signal generated by the temperature sensors. The connection terminal also comprises at least one electronic communication module, integrated into the body, communicating with the electronic processing module and configured to transmit data to a controller external to the terminal. The invention offers an innovative solution by transforming a passive terminal block into an active connection device capable of detecting its own temperature in real time. This smart connection block integrates active elements (at least one temperature sensor and at least one electronic module with processing and communication capabilities) that allow it to communicate its status to an external control system, facilitating the monitoring of the electrical connection and enabling the early detection of anomalous situations that could lead to a risk. The temperature sensor and the electronic processing and communication module are integrated into the sieve body. This integration means that these active components are housed within a cavity in the body without interfering with the sieve's functionality. As explained in more detail in the description of the various embodiments, the cavity can be located in an indivisible part of the sieve body or in a separate, detachable part. As already mentioned in the introduction, conventional passive-type needles do not currently offer any self-diagnostic capabilities. Furthermore, their usual concealed installation within junction boxes makes visual inspection and preventive maintenance difficult. Compared to these types of conventional sieves, the invention offers the following advantages: • To detect early thermal anomalies that indicate a deterioration of electrical connections, enabling the generation of alerts before an actual electrical problem occurs. • Increase the safety and reliability of the electrical system, reducing the risk of fires due to connection failures, facilitating and improving network maintenance. • Low-cost, high-efficiency alternative that can be easily integrated into new or existing facilities without requiring complex interventions. Additionally, the connection terminal of the invention features self-powering or energy autonomy from the current flowing through the terminal itself, thanks to a self-powering circuit connected to a low-voltage electrical network via the terminal's connection elements. This self-powering circuit provides electrical power to the temperature sensor and the electronic processing and communication modules. This functionality is highly advantageous as it allows the terminal to be powered without the need for external power supplies or external battery changes / recharges. It also simplifies its integration and maintenance in junction boxes where space and access are often limited. The invention also relates to a junction box comprising at least one connection fitting according to the invention. In the context of this invention, a junction box is a container that houses and conceals splices and connections between cables in an electrical installation, allowing access to them and facilitating their inspection, expansion, or repair without needing to interfere with the rest of the installation. The typical functions of a junction box are: the safe and insulated housing of electrical connections; the protection of the installation by keeping the electrical connections inside the junction box protected from moisture, dust, accidental tampering, or short circuits; the organization of the wiring, helping to keep it properly arranged and organized; and serving as a branch point from which cables can be routed to different points in the installation. Brief description of the figures The details of the invention are shown in the accompanying figures, which are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. • Figure 1 shows a conventional state-of-the-art power strip. • Figure 2 shows a simplified electrical diagram of one embodiment of the connection terminal according to the invention. • Figure 3 shows a perspective view of the connecting stile of Figure 2, provided with a cavity in the body for the integration of the active elements of the stile. • Figure 4 shows a perspective view of the connection terminal of Figure 2 illustrating the placement of the active elements inside the body cavity. • Figure 5 shows an additional view of the connection frame in Figure 2, which allows us to appreciate the layered arrangement of the active elements. Detailed description of the invention The present invention relates to a connection terminal block that performs the main function of joining electrical conductors, similar to a conventional terminal block or terminal strip. To this end, the connection terminal block comprises a body and a plurality of connecting elements. Figure 1 shows a conventional terminal block or terminal strip (11) provided with a body (12) and connecting elements (13). Figures 2 and 3 show, respectively, a simplified electrical diagram and a perspective view of one embodiment of the connection lug (1) according to the invention. The connection lug (1), in this particular, non-limiting example, is provided with a dielectric body (2) and a single pair of terminals or connection elements (3) intended, respectively, for connecting two electrical conductors (10), phase and neutral. In other alternative embodiments of the invention, the connection lug (1) may comprise more than one pair of connection elements (3) or terminals, as will be detailed later. The body (2) of the connection bracket (1) is made of a dielectric material with high thermal and mechanical resistance, for example, polyamide, polycarbonate, or other equivalent material, capable of withstanding high temperatures without degradation. Preferably, the body (2) of the connection bracket (1) of the invention is designed with physical and mounting characteristics common to conventional brackets, thus allowing its installation in standard junction boxes without special adaptations. For example, with regard to its physical dimensions, the body (2) may have approximately a width (w) of 2.5 cm, a height (h) of 1.5 cm (excluding the fixing elements (3b)), and a depth (d) of 2.5 cm, as shown in Figures 3 and 4. The connecting elements (3) are conductive and can optionally be made from metallic materials such as copper, copper alloys, or other conductive materials with equivalent properties. These connecting elements (3), as in a conventional terminal block, allow for electrical connection between cables or electrical conductors (10) external to the connecting terminal block (1). For this purpose, the connecting terminal block (1) comprises a pair of fastening elements (3b), for example, screws, for securing the electrical conductors (10). Each connecting element (3) comprises a conductive connection area (3a) that facilitates the connection between an input electrical conductor (10) and an output electrical conductor (10). The fastening elements (3b) can be of various types, including those that allow for quick connections without the need for special tools.For example, the fastening elements (3b) can be hand-tightening screws, springs, levers, or others. The connection terminal (1) of the invention has the particularity of incorporating a series of active elements (4, 5, 6) that allow the detection, storage, and communication of anomalous temperature conditions. These active elements comprise a temperature sensor (4) integrated into the body (2) of the connection terminal (1) and configured to detect local overheating or a temperature increase in the conductive connection area (3a) as a result of conductivity deterioration. Localized overheating can occur for various reasons. It is important to ensure proper contact between the electrical conductors and the fasteners. Sufficient tightening must be applied, especially when using manual fasteners such as screws, and this tightness should not be loosened over time to minimize conductor resistance and avoid increasing the risk of overheating. Overheating of a terminal block can also occur due to overloading. For example, if a terminal block is used in a multi-outlet configuration to connect several devices to the same circuit, overheating could occur due to excessive power consumption. In these circumstances, the plastic of the terminal block could melt, potentially causing a short circuit at the connection.In such a case, if the circuit's electrical protections are inadequate or fail to trip in time for any reason, there is a risk of fire in the installation. Ultimately, the connection sieve (1) of the invention allows for the early detection of various abnormal situations that could lead to a fire hazard. Additionally, the connection terminal (1) comprises an electronic processing module (5) and an electronic communication module (6) configured to receive, store, and transmit data to an external controller (not shown in Fig. 2). The electronic processing module (5) and the electronic communication module (6) may be part of a single electronic module, as in the embodiment of Fig. 2. In any case, the electronic module comprises a processing part configured to store data and instructions and a communication part, configured to transmit in real time the data provided by the temperature sensor(s) (4), thus facilitating continuous and remote monitoring of the thermal state of the connection terminal (1). The connecting frame (1) of the invention features a design that facilitates the coupling and integration of the temperature sensors (4) and other active elements without interfering with the conventional electrical conduction function of the connecting frame (1). Figures 3 and 4 illustrate details of this design characteristic of the invention. With reference to the XYZ axis system shown in the figures, the connecting elements (3) extend along the X direction, and the fastening elements (3b) extend in a Z direction perpendicular to the X direction, away from the connecting elements (3). Optionally, as in the embodiment of Figures 3 and 4, the body (2) of the connecting frame (1) comprises a housing or cavity (2a) located parallel to the connecting elements (3) and on the opposite side of the fastening elements (3b) along the Z direction.Thus, in the representation of Figures 3 and 4, the connecting elements (3) are located in a central position, the fixing elements (3b) are located in an upper position, and the cavity (2a) of the body (2) is arranged in a lower position. The above designations upper, central, and lower are merely descriptive references in relation to the specific representation of Figures 3 and 4. In practice, the connecting bracket (1) can adopt any spatial orientation when installed (normally inside a junction box). Optionally, as in the embodiment of Figure 4, the temperature sensor (4) is arranged in the cavity (2a) of the body (2) in a location close to the conductive connection area (3a) where the greatest heating typically occurs. In this way, its location is optimized to record the actual temperature of this connection area (3a). In this particular embodiment of Figure 3, the body (2) of the connection bracket (1) has a lower portion that is wider in the Z direction compared to the typical configuration of this lower portion of a conventional bracket. Thus, optionally, the temperature sensor (4) is positioned embedded in the dielectric material of the body (2) of the connection bracket (1), separated by an insulating barrier and without direct electrical contact with the conductive portion of the connection bracket (1). Figure 4 illustrates the placement of the active elements—not only the temperature sensor (4) but also the electronic processing module (5), the electronic communication module (6), and the power supply system—within the cavity (2a), such that these modules are also embedded in the dielectric material of the connecting frame (1) body (2). The widened lower portion of the body (2), comprising the cavity (2a), constitutes a protective housing that encloses and protects the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processing module (5), and the electronic communication module (6). The walls defining the cavity (2a) form this housing. In this case, the protective housing forms an indivisible unit with the body (2). Figure 5 illustrates the arrangement of the active elements of the connection frame (1) configuring a layered structure. A first layer comprises the temperature sensor(s) (4). A second layer, located at a lower position, comprises the electronic processor module (5) and the electronic communication module (6). The connector of the invention features a modular design. Preferably, as in the embodiment shown in the Figures, the active elements (4, 5, 6), the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processor module (5), and the electronic communication module (6) are easily replaceable, allowing for the maintenance or technological upgrade of the connection terminal (1) without needing to replace the entire assembly, that is, by retaining the conventional parts (body (2) and connection elements (3)) and keeping the cavity (2a) of the body (2) indivisible. These active elements (4, 5, 6), located in the cavity (2a) of the body (2) of the connection terminal (1), can be easily replaced thanks to the described design. The connection terminal (1) is not limited to the configuration described above and shown in the figures. Optionally, the active elements (4, 5, 6), the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processing module (5), and the electronic communication module (6) can be separately detached while retaining the conventional parts (body (2) and connection elements (3)). That is, the invention also covers embodiments in which the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processing module (5), and the electronic communication module (6) are located within a small housing separable from the body (2). This detachable housing can be attached to the body (2) of the connection terminal (1) on its lower side opposite the fastening elements (3b). The attachment can be made, preferably but not exclusively, by snap-fit.This alternative opens up the possibility of adapting the invention to conventional terminals already manufactured to incorporate the active elements. In short, the connection terminal (1) comprises a compact housing that contains and protects the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processing module (5), and the electronic communication module (6), without interfering with the conventional mechanical and electrical function of the connection terminal (1). This housing maintains the electrical and thermal insulation necessary to ensure system safety. As detailed above, the housing may be an integral part of the body (2) or separable from it. Optionally, the temperature sensor (4) can be a thermistor, an RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector), or a DS18B20 type digital temperature detector. Alternatively, instead of conventional thermal sensors, the invention is compatible with the use of other types of sensors such as: infrared sensors, resistance variation sensors using conductive polymers or other smart materials, etc. Optionally, the electronic communication module (6) uses Wi-Fi or another wireless technology. Optionally, the electronic communication module (6) is configured to operate at least via LoRa, Zigbee, or Bluetooth protocols for the periodic transmission of data to the external controller. The external controller to which the data is sent can be a central hub or remote management platform. Other non-wireless communication technologies are not excluded; that is, the invention is compatible with other wired data transmission technologies, via a data bus or other wired communication infrastructure, whether new or already present in an existing installation. Optionally, the electronic processing module (5) is configured to store and transmit data relating to a unique identification of each connection point (1) in a network that connects various devices. Thanks to the individual identification of each connection point (1) by means of a unique electronic identifier (UID), which allows it to be differentiated from other points in the same installation and associates the transmitted temperature data with a specific physical location, it is possible to construct a digital map of the installation, facilitating traceability, remote diagnostics, and risk analysis. The connection terminal (1) of the invention has a self-powering capability from the electric current passing through the connection terminal (1), without the need for external power supplies or battery changes. For example, optionally as in the embodiment of Fig. 2, the connection terminal (1) comprises an AC / DC converter (7) integrated into the body (2), for converting the mains voltage (e.g., 220V AC) into a low-voltage direct current (e.g., 3.3V DC) suitable for powering the active elements (4, 5, 6) of the connection terminal (1) (temperature sensor (4), electronic processor module (5), and electronic communication module (6)) without the need for additional external batteries or periodic maintenance. Other alternatives for providing energy autonomy to the connection terminal (1) are not ruled out, such as other sources of thermal or vibrational energy obtained through energy harvesting (EH). In other words, the self-powering function of the connection terminal (1) of the invention can also be implemented using an external ambient energy recovery system or other systems suitable for powering low-consumption electronic devices. In any case, the terminal's self-powering system eliminates the need for external power supplies or the replacement or recharging of external batteries. The connection frame (1), according to the particular embodiment shown in the figures, comprises only one pair of connection elements (3) or terminals for connecting the phase and neutral wires. However, as previously mentioned, the invention allows for the incorporation of a greater number of terminal pairs without altering the essence of the proposed solution. In such cases, the resulting assembly still constitutes a single integrated device. For example, the connection frame (1) may comprise several temperature sensors (4), one for each pair of connection elements (3), and a single electronic module (5, 6) for processing and communicating the process variables, in particular, the temperature. Additionally, the modularity of the invention also encompasses embodiments in which the connection terminal (1) comprises at least one open-circuited temperature sensor (4) without being associated with a corresponding pair of connection elements (3). This allows for the removal of terminal pairs from one end of the device without posing an electrical risk or affecting the functionality of the rest of the device. The electronic processing module (5) is configured to recognize this circumstance and identify the missing pair(s) of connection elements (3), without generating erroneous measurements or triggering false alarms. This approach provides flexibility to the connection terminal (1) of the invention.For example, if an installation requires a terminal block or connector with 7 pairs of terminals or connection elements, and the standard manufactured versions are terminal blocks with 6 and 8 pairs of terminals, an installer can use a terminal block (1) with 8 pairs of connection elements (3) and remove one pair, thus obtaining a configuration tailored to the specific need without compromising safety or functionality. Consequently, the invention not only optimizes space and production costs but also offers structural adaptability that increases its versatility in the market. The connection clenna (1) according to the invention constitutes an active clenna that incorporates all the necessary elements for its electrical and thermal self-protection. Its operation is based on a continuous or periodic temperature reading in the conductive connection zones (3a) susceptible to electrical overheating. In case of detecting an anomalous trend of thermal increase, the system can be configured or programmed to: record data for historical analysis, perform predictive maintenance, send alerts to a central system or application, and / or activate safety protocols if connected to home automation or industrial systems. The invention can be applied both in new installations and in upgrades of existing installations, thanks to a design compatible with the standard dimensions and regulations of traditional staircases. The connection cable (1) of the invention can adopt different physical formats (linear, angled, multipolar, etc.) compatible with different types of junction boxes, electrical panels or conduits, allowing its adaptation to various regulations or construction preferences. The invention can be part of energy management or home automation systems (for example, by integrating with KNX systems or IoT protocols) to activate alarms, disconnect zones, or generate automatic reports. Although the invention was initially conceived for application in domestic environments, its use in industrial environments as a complement to existing protection systems is not ruled out, reinforcing the security of secondary or hard-to-reach connections.

Claims

1. A connection terminal (1), configured for installation in a junction box of an installation provided with a low-voltage electrical network, comprising: - a dielectric body (2) and - at least a pair of connection elements (3) housed in the body (2), where each connection element (3) comprises a conductive connection zone (3a) for the electrical connection of electrical conductors (10), characterized in that it comprises: - at least one temperature sensor (4) integrated into the body (2) and configured to detect overheating in at least one of the conductive connection zones (3a), - at least one electronic processing module (5) integrated into the body (2), communicating with the temperature sensor (4) and configured to receive and store data from a signal generated by the temperature sensor (4), - at least one electronic communication module (6) integrated into the body (2),communicated with the electronic processor module (5) and configured to transmit data to an external controller at the connection terminal (1), and - a self-powering circuit (8) connected to the low-voltage electrical network via the connection elements (3) and configured to provide power to the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processor module (5), and the electronic communication module (6).

2. Connection terminal (1) according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor (4) is arranged in a cavity (2a) of the body (2), the cavity (2a) being arranged parallel to the arrangement of the connection elements (3), the temperature sensor (4) being embedded in the body (2) in a location close to a connection area (3a) without contacting the connection area (3a).

3. Connection terminal (1) according to claim 1, comprising at least one protective housing that houses the temperature sensor (4),the electronic processor module (5) and the electronic communication module (6).

4. Connection terminal (1), according to claim 3, wherein the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processor module (5), and the electronic communication module (6) are housed in a cavity (2a) of the body (2) in such a way that they are replaceable while retaining the body (2), the connection elements (3), and the cavity (2a), wherein the walls of the cavity (2a) form an indivisible protective housing for the body (2).

5. Connection terminal (1), according to claim 1, wherein the temperature sensor (4), the electronic processor module (5), and the electronic communication module (6) are housed in a housing that is separably adaptable to the body (2) and is removable while retaining the body (2) and the connection elements (3).

6. Connection terminal (1), according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the temperature sensor (4) is a thermistor,an RTD or a digital temperature detector.

7. Connection terminal (1), according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic communication module (6) is integrated into the electronic processor module (5) and is wireless, being configured to operate using at least one of the following protocols: LoRa, Zigbee, or Bluetooth, for sending data to the external controller.

8. Connection terminal (1), according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the electronic processor module (5) is configured to store and transmit data relating to a unique identification of the connection terminal (1) by means of a unique electronic identifier (UID).

9. Connection terminal (1), according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the self-powering circuit (8) comprises an AC / DC converter (7) integrated into the body (2), adapted to provide DC power to the temperature sensor (4).to the electronic processor module (5) and to the electronic communication module (6).

10. Connection terminal (1), according to any of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of pairs of connection elements (3) associated with their corresponding temperature sensor (4) and comprising at least one additional open-circuit temperature sensor (4) not associated with any corresponding pair of connection elements (3).

11. Junction box comprising at least one connection terminal (1) according to any of the preceding claims.