Power distribution system and power supply assembly comprising such a distribution system

Abstract

Power distribution system and power supply assembly comprising such a distribution system The present invention relates to a power distribution system (10) comprising a trunking (11) comprising a first edge (14) and a second edge (15), each comprising fixing notches (19), several bars (25), and a junction box (40). The holding device (30) comprises a support (32) comprising a first and a second lock (38, 39), which cooperate respectively with a fixing notch of the first edge and a fixing notch of the second edge (15) and a counter-support (34), elastically deforming the first lock (38) and the second lock, and a cover (47), covering the trunking, the bars and the holding device.The junction box (40) comprises a base (42), with first teeth (48) and second teeth (49), fixed to the trunking by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge. Figure for abstract: Figure 3.

Description

Title of the invention: Power distribution system and power supply assembly comprising such a distribution system

[0001] The present invention relates to a power distribution system and a power supply assembly comprising such a power distribution system.

[0002] To distribute current to electrical loads, it is known to use cables, particularly with a star installation from a current source. This solution requires one cable per electrical load, which requires many cables and makes installation expensive. It is also known to use power buses, often fixed to a wall of a building, with branch outlets that are plugged into the power bus, in order to connect the loads to the current source. However, power buses generally have predefined lengths in advance, and are difficult to adapt to different situations. They are also difficult to install.

[0003] The aim of the invention is then to propose a current distribution system which resolves these drawbacks and which is adaptable and simple to install.

[0004] To this end, the invention relates to a current distribution system comprising:

[0005] - a chute adapted to be fixed to a support surface, extending along a longitudinal direction, the chute comprising a bottom, a first edge and a second edge, the first and second edges extending on either side of the bottom in a transverse direction and each comprising fixing notches;

[0006] - several bars, extending at least partially into the chute according to the longitudinal direction, each bar comprising a core of electrically conductive material configured to conduct an electric current, and a sheath surrounding the core, the sheath being electrically insulating; and

[0007] - a junction box.

[0008] According to the invention, the distribution system further comprises:

[0009] - a holding device comprising: • a support, extending in the transverse direction, the support comprising notches each receiving a bar, a first lock and a second lock, which cooperate respectively with a notch for fixing the first edge and a notch for fixing the second edge and, • a counter-support, bearing against the support in a thickness direction, the counter-support elastically deforming the first lock and the second lock in order to maintain the first lock and the second lock in co operation respectively with the fixing notch of the first edge and the fixing notch of the second edge,

[0010] - a cover, fitted onto the chute and covering the chute, the bars and the device of maintenance.

[0011] According to the invention, the junction box further comprises: • a base, comprising a first plate and a second plate which respectively comprise a plurality of first teeth and a plurality of second teeth, the base being fixed to the chute by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge of the chute, the base defining corridors each receiving a bar; • branch outlets, each branch outlet being connected to one of the bars, • an electrical protection device, connected to at least one of the branch outlets, • an intermediate casing, fixed to the base and surrounding the base, the branch connections and the electrical protection device, the intermediate casing bearing on the first plate and on the second plate, the intermediate casing keeping the first and second teeth engaged respectively with the first edge and with the second edge, and • an external face, fixed on the intermediate casing and covering the branch outlets and the electrical protection device.

[0012] Thanks to the invention, the power supply system is adaptable to many wall geometries. It is also easy to assemble. Indeed, the holding devices used allow the bars to be held while being easy to install. The junction boxes are also easy to install, thanks to the base and the intermediate casing which keeps the base fixed to the trunking. Their number can be modified depending on the application of the power supply system, for example the number of loads or the power of the power bus.

[0013] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the current distribution system comprises one or more of the following characteristics, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0014] - The junction box further comprises two sealing devices arranged in on either side of the branch outlets and the electrical protection device in the longitudinal direction, each sealing device comprising:

[0015] - a seal, extending in the transverse direction, housed in the base, the seal comprising notches each receiving one of the bars (25); and

[0016] - a counter-joint, extending in the transverse direction, the bars being in interposed between the seal and the counter-seal, the counter-seal being flush with the first and second plates.

[0017] - The system further comprises a power supply box, comprising:

[0018] - a base comprising a first plate and a second plate, comprising respectively a plurality of first teeth and a plurality of second teeth, the base being fixed to the chute by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge, the base defining corridors each receiving one of the bars,

[0019] - a disconnector, connected between a power cable and the bars, the cable power supply being capable of being connected to an electrical source;

[0020] - an intermediate envelope, fixed to the base and surrounding the base and the dry tioner, the intermediate casing comprising an opening for allowing the power cable to pass through, the intermediate casing bearing on the first and second plates and thus keeping the first and second teeth engaged respectively with the first edge and with the second edge; and

[0021] - an external face, fixed on the intermediate casing and covering the disconnector.

[0022] - The bars each comprise an upstream part and a downstream part, each part upstream comprising a first end at which the core is visible, each downstream part comprising a second end at which the core is visible, the second end bearing on the first end in the thickness direction (Z), the system further comprising:

[0023] - a junction box, comprising: • connectors, each connector connecting, for one of the given bars, the first end and the second end together, • a base, surrounding the first and second ends and the connectors, the base comprising a first plate and a second plate which respectively comprise a plurality of first teeth and a plurality of second teeth, the base being fixed to the chute by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge of the chute, the base defining corridors each receiving the upstream part and the downstream part of one of the bars; and

[0024] - an external face, fixed on the base and covering the connectors and the first and the second end of the upstream and downstream parts of each bar.

[0025] - The junction box further comprises a measuring device, configured to measure electricity consumption.

[0026] - The system comprises five bars, the bars being configured to conduct res respectively a first phase, a second phase, a third phase, a neutral and a reference of potential.

[0027] - The system comprises a plurality of holding devices, distributed according to the longitudinal direction.

[0028] The invention also relates to a power supply assembly comprising:

[0029] - the system according to any one of the preceding claims;

[0030] - at least one power supply terminal, connected to the electrical protection device, configured to power an electrical load when connected to the power terminal by a user.

[0031] According to other advantageous aspects of the invention, the electrical power supply assembly comprises one or more of the following characteristics, taken individually or in all technically possible combinations:

[0032] - The power supply assembly further comprises a communication cable nication, connecting the power terminal to an electronic control unit, the support comprising a notch receiving the communication cable.

[0033] - The electrical load is a battery of an electric vehicle.

[0034] The invention will appear more clearly on reading the description which follows, given solely by way of non-limiting example, and made with reference to the drawings in which:

[0035] - [Fig.l] [Fig.l] is a perspective view of a power supply assembly electrical system in accordance with the invention, incorporating a current distribution system also in accordance with the invention;

[0036] - [Fig.2] [Fig.2] is a partial perspective view of the exterior of the system of current distribution of [Fig.l];

[0037] - [Fig.3] [Fig.3] is a partial perspective view of the distribution system of current of [Fig.l] and 2, certain elements being omitted to allow the visualization of other elements of the current distribution system;

[0038] - [Fig.4] [Fig.4] is a partial perspective view of the distribution system of current of figures 1 to 3 showing a chute, a base and supports;

[0039] - [Fig.5] [Fig.5] is a section of the system of [Fig.2], according to the section plane V- V in [Fig.3]; and

[0040] - [Fig.6] [Fig.6] is a section of the system of [Fig.2], according to the section plane VI- VI in [Fig.3].

[0041] [Fig.l] represents a general view of an electrical power supply assembly 1. The electrical power supply assembly 1 equips, in [Fig.l], a parking lot for electric cars and comprises several power supply terminals 5, and a current distribution system 10, also called system 10.

[0042] Each power supply terminal 5 is configured to be connected to an electrical load, such as for example a battery of an electric vehicle 7, and is also configured to supply power to the electrical load when the latter is connected to the power supply terminal 5.

[0043] The current distribution system 10 is configured to connect a current source, not shown, to the power supply terminals 5 in order to supply the power supply terminals 5 with electricity. The current distribution system 10 is here installed in a parking lot, more precisely fixed on one of the walls 8 of the parking lot, but is more generally fixed on a support surface, which is for example a wall, a floor or a ceiling.

[0044] In a variant not shown, the distribution system 10 is installed outdoors.

[0045] In a variant not shown, the electrical power supply assembly 1 is installed in a building, for example to power household appliances, power outlets, lighting devices, or servers. In this case, the power supply assembly does not include power terminals, and the power distribution system 10 is directly connected to the electrical loads.

[0046] The current distribution system 10 comprises a trunking 11, several bars 25, at least one holding assembly 30, a junction box 40 and a cover 47. In the figures, the current distribution system 10 comprises several holding assemblies 30 and several junction boxes 40. The trunking 11 is formed of several sections of the same type which differ in their lengths, which are adapted to the geometry of the wall 8 and the possible presence of obstacles, such as a pipe 9.

[0047] A chute 11 is visible in Figures 3 to 6. The chute 11 extends in a longitudinal direction X and is fixed to the wall 8. A transverse direction Y and a thickness direction Z are defined as being perpendicular to the longitudinal direction X at any point in the longitudinal direction X. The longitudinal direction X being a local direction of the chute 11, it follows the shape of the wall 8. In the configuration mounted on the wall 8, the transverse direction Y is directed upwards and the thickness direction Z is perpendicular to the wall 8 and moves away from it.

[0048] The sections which constitute the chute 11 are here sheets 12 which are assembled end to end in the longitudinal direction X. The sheets 12 can be spaced in the longitudinal direction X in order to adapt to the geometry of the wall 8, in particular in the case of irregularities of the wall 8 caused for example by obstacles, such as the pipe 9. The sheets 12 are advantageously made of metal, but can be made of another material, in particular synthetic, such as plastic.

[0049] Each sheet 12 comprises a bottom 13, a first inner edge 14 and a second inner edge 15. In the configuration of the chute 11 mounted on the wall 8, the first inner edge 14 is an upper edge of the sheet 12, while the second edge interior 15 is a lower edge of this sheet. The bottom 13 extends in the longitudinal direction X. The bottom 13 is fixed to the wall 8, for example by being screwed to the wall 8 by means of screws not shown.

[0050] The first inner edge 14 and the second inner edge 15 extend in the longitudinal direction X and in the thickness direction Z and are arranged on either side of the bottom 13 in the transverse direction Y. The first inner edge 14 and the second inner edge 15 respectively comprise a first outer lip or upper lip 16 and a second outer lip or lower lip 17. The first and second lips 16 and 17 are curved and extend from the remainder of the first inner edge 14 and the remainder of the second inner edge 15, respectively, opposite the bottom 13 and in a direction opposite to the thickness direction Z.

[0051] The first and second edges 14 and 15, respectively upper and lower, each comprise fixing notches 19. The fixing notches 19 of the first edge 14 are barely visible in the figures, but are, in the example of the figures, symmetrical to the fixing notches 19 of the second inner edge 15 with respect to a plane parallel to the directions X and Z. Advantageously, the fixing notches 19 are regularly spaced along the longitudinal direction X and a fixing notch 19 of the first inner edge 14 is opposite a fixing notch 19 of the second inner edge 15 along the transverse direction Y.

[0052] The bars 25 are advantageously five in number. In this case, a first bar 25 is configured to conduct a first phase, a second bar 25 is configured to conduct a second phase, a third bar 25 is configured to conduct a third phase, a fourth bar 25 is configured to correspond to the neutral and a fifth bar 25 is configured to correspond to a potential reference, also called earth. In a variant not shown, the bars 25 are two, three, or four in number. In the case where the bars 25 are two in number, a first bar 25 is configured to conduct a first phase and a second bar 25 is configured to correspond to the neutral.In the case where the bars 25 are three in number, a first bar 25 is configured to conduct a first phase, a second bar 25 is configured to correspond to the neutral and a third bar 25 is configured to correspond to the earth. In the case where the bars 25 are four in number, three bars 25 are configured to each conduct a phase and a fourth bar 25 is configured to correspond to either the earth or the neutral.

[0053] Particularly advantageously, the bars 25 are flexible bars, that is to say they adapt to the geometry of the support surface. This is clearly visible in [Fig.l], where the bars adapt to the angles of the wall 8, as well as to the pipe 9. Preferably, the bars 25 are sufficiently flexible to be bent by hand.

[0054] Each bar 25 comprises a core 26 made of electrically conductive material, such as copper. The core 26 is thus configured to conduct an electric current. In the case where the bars 25 are flexible bars, the core 26 of each bar 25 is advantageously a stack of sheets made of electrically conductive material. The core 26 is surrounded by a sheath 27 made of electrically insulating material, for example synthetic materials such as plastic. Thus, a section of the bars 25 along a plane defined by the transverse directions Y and thickness Z is more elongated along the transverse direction Y than the thickness direction Z. The bars 25 are therefore flattened along the thickness direction Z.

[0055] Each bar 25 extends at least partially in the chute 11, in the longitudinal direction X. The bars 25 are arranged next to and at a distance from each other in the transverse direction Y. The bars 25 are therefore parallel to the support surface, here the wall 8.

[0056] Each bar 25 is divided into sections, aligned along the longitudinal direction X. Each section comprises an upstream portion 25a and a downstream portion 25b. The upstream portion 25a of a given section is further upstream from the source than the downstream portion 25b of this section along the longitudinal direction X.

[0057] Each upstream portion 25a comprises a first end 28a, at which the core 26 is visible. Similarly, each downstream portion 25b comprises a second end 28b at which the core 26 is visible. The second end 28b of the downstream portion 25b of a given section and the first end 28a of the upstream portion 25a of the section immediately following in the longitudinal direction X are superimposed in the thickness direction Z, forming a junction zone 28, so that the electric current flows along the bar 25, between its sections.

[0058] In practice, and according to an advantageous aspect of the invention, the junction zones 28 of the different bars 25 are aligned in the transverse direction Y.

[0059] In order to hold the bars 25 in the chute 11, the current distribution system 10 comprises at least one holding device 30, generally several holding devices 30 distributed in the chute 11, as visible in FIGS. 3 to 5.

[0060] Each holding device 30 comprises a support 32 and a counter-support 34. The supports 32 of the different holding devices 30 are preferably identical, as are the counter-supports 34.

[0061] A support 32 extends in the transverse direction Y and bears against the bottom 13 in the thickness direction Z. The support 32 comprises notches 36, here five notches 36. Each notch 36 is configured to receive a bar 25 and prevent movement of the bars 25 in the transverse direction Y or in a direction opposite to the transverse direction Y. Advantageously and as well as re shown in particular in [Fig.5], the support 32 also comprises two notches 37, each notch 37 being intended to receive a communication cable, for example an Ethernet cable, not shown.

[0062] Each support 32 also comprises a first lock 38 and a second lock 39. In the mounted configuration of the distribution system 1, the first and second locks 38 and 39 are respectively an upper lock and a lower lock. The first lock 38 cooperates with one of the fixing notches 19 of the first inner edge 14 by means of a first lug 42, which passes through the fixing notch 19 of the first inner edge 14. The second lock 39 cooperates with one of the fixing notches 19 of the second inner edge 15, which is in particular the fixing notch 19 of the second inner edge 15 opposite in the transverse direction Y the fixing notch 19 of the first inner edge 14. This cooperation is carried out by means of a second lug 43 which passes through the fixing notch 19 of the lower edge 15. In the assembled configuration of the distribution system 1, the first and second lugs 42 and 43 are respectively an upper lug and a lower lug.

[0063] The counter-support 34 extends in the transverse direction Y and bears against the support 32 in the thickness direction Z, for example by being screwed to the support 32. The counter-support 34 closes the notches 36, preventing movement of the bars 25 in the thickness direction Z. In addition, the counter-support 34 bears against the first and second locks 38 and 39 and deforms them elastically, in order to press them respectively against the first inner edge 14 and against the second inner edge 15 and to maintain the first lug r 42 in cooperation with the fixing notch 19 of the first inner edge 14 and the second lug 43 in cooperation with the fixing notch 19 of the second inner edge 15. Thus, the holding device 30 is fixed to the chute 12, without the need to screw the support 32 to the chute 12 or on wall 8.

[0064] The holding devices 30 therefore prevent the bars 25 from moving. In particular, in the case of an electrical fault such as a short circuit, a repulsion force, called electrodynamic force, proportional to the current flowing in the bars is exerted between the bars 25, tending to separate them from each other. The number of holding devices 30 in the system 10 is advantageously determined as a function of the current flowing in the bars 25 and the maximum repulsion force that the holding devices 30 must withstand in the event of a short circuit. Adding holding devices 30 makes it possible in particular to reduce a distance between two consecutive devices 30, which makes it possible to modulate the number of holding devices 30 as a function of the electrodynamic forces to be supported.Furthermore, the shape of bars 25, which are flattened along the thickness direction Z, reduces the surfaces of the bars 25 facing each other, which limits electrodynamic forces which . exercise on the 25 bars.

[0065] The presence of fixing notches 19 regularly spaced along the longitudinal direction X along the first and second edges 14 and 15 makes it possible to fix the fixing supports 30 where necessary to withstand the electromechanical forces, and to adapt the number and position of the supports 30 easily.

[0066] The cover 47 is made of electrically insulating material, such as synthetic materials like plastic, or metal, and covers the chute 11 in the longitudinal direction X. In a particularly advantageous manner, the cover 47 is composed of several cover sections 47a, each section 47a covering one of the sheets 12, as well as the bars 25 and the holding devices 30 mounted on this sheet 12. Each section 47a comprises upper 146 and lower 147 elastic hooks. The upper elastic hook 146 bears against the first lip 16 and the lower elastic hook 147 bears against the second lip 17. The section 47a is thus retained by the elastic hooks 146 and 147 in the thickness direction Z. Thus the cover 47 is embedded on the chute 11, without requiring additional fixing such as screws to fix the cover 47 to chute 11.

[0067] Each junction box 40 is configured to connect the bars 25 to one of the power supply terminals 5. Each junction box 40 is installed at a junction zone 28 of the bars 25.

[0068] Each junction box 40 comprises a base 42. The base 42 is advantageously made of electrically insulating material, such as synthetic materials like plastic.

[0069] The base 42 is fixed on the chute 11, more precisely on one of the sheets 12. The base 42 bears against the bottom 13 of the sheet 12, in the thickness direction Z. The base 42 comprises a first plate 44 and a second plate 45, extending along the base 42 in the longitudinal direction X, and located on either side of the rest of the base 42 in the transverse direction Y. The first plate 44 bears against the first inner edge 14, and the second plate 45 bears against the second inner edge 15. In the assembled configuration of the distribution system 1, the first and second plates 44 and 45 are respectively an upper plate and a lower plate. The plates 44 and 45 fixed on the edges 14 and 15 allow the installation of the base 42 at any location on the chute 11.

[0070] The first plate 44 comprises a plurality of first teeth 48, and the second plate 45 comprises a plurality of second teeth 49, visible in [Fig. 6]. The first and second teeth 48 and 49 bear respectively against the first lip 16 and against the second lip 17 in the thickness direction Z. The first and second teeth 48 and 49 retain the base 42 by cooperation of shapes of the first and second teeth 48 49 with respectively the first lip 16 and the second lip 17 and prevent the base 42 from detaching from the sheet metal 12. In the mounted configuration of the distribution system 1, the first and second teeth 48 and 49 are respectively upper teeth and lower teeth.

[0071] The base 42 defines corridors 51, here five corridors 51, extending in the longitudinal direction X, each corridor 51 receiving one of the bars 25. The base 42 also defines additional corridors 53, arranged here on either side of the corridors 51 in the transverse direction Y, each corridor 53 receiving one of the communication cables.

[0072] Each junction box 40 further comprises two sealing devices 60, received in the base 42. Each sealing device 60 extends from the lower plate 45 to the first plate 44 in the transverse direction Y and comprises a seal 62, visible in [Fig.4] and a counter-seal 63, visible in [Fig.3].

[0073] The seal 62 is housed in the base 42 and comprises notches 65, each notch receiving one of the bars 25. As shown in the figures, the seal 62 comprises two additional notches 67, on either side of the notches 65 in the transverse direction Y, each receiving one of the communication cables.

[0074] The counter-seal 63 extends in the transverse direction Y and bears against the seal 62 in the thickness direction Z. The counter-seal 63 advantageously comprises notches 69 and 71, which, similarly to the notches 65 and 67, respectively receive the bars 25 and the communication cables. The bars 25 are interposed between the seal 62 and the counter-seal 63 in the thickness direction Z. Thus, the seal 62 and the counter-seal 63 match the shape of the bars 25. In addition, the counter-seal 63 is flush with the first and second plates 44 and 45 in the thickness direction Z. The sealing devices 60 thus ensure good sealing of the base 40, at its two ends in the direction of the direction X.

[0075] The junction box 40 further comprises junction sockets 70, visible in FIGS. 3 and 6. Each junction socket 70 comprises a tab 72, made of electrically conductive material, for example copper, in contact with the first and second ends 28a and 28b of one of the bars 25.

[0076] The first and second ends 28a and 28b bear against each other in the thickness direction Z and the tongue 72 bears against the first end 28a in the thickness direction Z.

[0077] The junction box 40 comprises connectors 75, each connector holding the ends 28a, 28b of a bar 25 and the tab 72 of the associated junction socket 70 in abutment against each other, and electrically connected to each other. Each connector 75 is here a bolt, comprising a threaded rod 76, fixed to the base 42 and a nut 77. The threaded rod 76 is fixed to the base 42 in order to keep the threaded rod 76 fixed and facilitate tightening of the nut 77.

[0078] The junction box 40 comprises at least one electrical protection device 80, visible in Figures 3 and 6, connected to at least one of the junction sockets 70. Here, the electrical protection device 80 is connected to two junction sockets 70. In a particularly advantageous manner, the electrical protection device 80 is connected at the input to one of the bars 25 corresponding to one of the three phases, and to the bar 25 corresponding to the neutral, and at the output to one of the power supply terminals 5, by means of cables 83. The electrical protection device 80 comprises a miniature circuit breaker and optionally, a circuit breaker incorporating differential protection.

[0079] Optionally but particularly advantageously, the junction box 40 also comprises a device 85 for measuring electrical consumption, connected between the electrical protection device 80 and the cables 83.

[0080] The measuring device 85 is for example configured to measure the power or the intensity of the current consumed by the load when it is connected to the power supply terminal 5. Each measuring device 85 is advantageously connected in series to the two communication cables, and is configured to transmit data relating to the instantaneous or average electrical consumption to an electronic control unit, not shown. The electronic control unit is advantageously adapted to process the data and to display them to a user, and, in a particularly advantageous manner, is adapted to adjust a power of the electric current flowing in the current distribution system 10 according to the data received.

[0081] In the case where the junction box 40 does not include a measuring device 85, the communication cables are advantageously connected to each power supply terminal 5 and to the electronic control unit.

[0082] As shown [Fig.3], the electrical protection device 80 and the measuring device are mounted on fixing rails 88 which are fixed to the base 42 by screws 89.

[0083] The cables 83 connecting the measuring device 85 to the power supply terminal supplied through the protection device 80 advantageously circulate in a sheath 84 to the power supply terminal 5. Thus, part of the electric current circulating in the bars 25 is diverted from the power bars 25 to the power supply terminal 5. The electrical protection device 80 makes it possible to protect the cables 83 connected to the power supply terminal 5

[0084] The junction box 40 also comprises an intermediate casing 90. The intermediate casing 90 surrounds the base 42, the junction sockets 70, the electrical protection devices 80 and measurement devices 85 and the fixing rails 88.

[0085] The intermediate casing 90 bears on the first and second plates 44 and 45 in the transverse direction Y. Thus, the intermediate casing 90 keeps the first and second teeth 48 and 49 engaged respectively with the first lip 16 and the second lip 17. Consequently, it keeps the base 42 fixed to the sheet 12. Furthermore, the intermediate casing 90 is fixed to the base 42 by screws 91, not shown.

[0086] The junction box 40 comprises an external face 95, made of electrically insulating material, for example synthetic materials such as plastic, fixed to the intermediate casing 90 by screws 97 and covering the intermediate casing 90, the base 42 and the elements fixed to the base 42. Advantageously, the external face 95 comprises a window, or a door 99, so that a user can access the electrical protection device 80, or can read an electricity consumption on the electrical consumption measuring device 85 when the latter is provided with a display.

[0087] Advantageously, seals 96, located between the intermediate casing 90 and the base 42 along the thickness direction Z, and additional seals not shown, are interposed between the external face 95 and the intermediate casing 90 along the thickness direction Z. The seals 96 and the additional seals complement the two sealing devices 60, so that the junction box 40 meets a water and dust protection index standard such as the IP55 or IP66 standards.

[0088] Optionally but advantageously, as shown in [Fig.l], the electrical power supply assembly 1 further comprises a junction box 100. The junction box 100 serves to ensure the circulation of current along the bars 25 at the junction zones 28, without requiring the installation of a junction box 40. This is the case, for example, if it is necessary to connect two sections of the same bar 25, without adding an additional power supply terminal 5 which would require the installation of a junction box 40.

[0089] For this purpose, the junction box 100 comprises connectors, not shown, similar to the connectors 75 of the junction box 40. The junction box 100 also comprises a base 101, which surrounds the connectors and the first and second ends 28a and 28b. Advantageously, the base 101 is similar to the base 42, and comprises in particular a first upper plate or plate and a second lower plate or plate which respectively comprise a plurality of first upper teeth or teeth and a plurality of second lower teeth or teeth, the base 101 being fixed to the trunking 11 by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first inner edge 14 and of the second teeth with the second inner edge 15 of the trunking 12. Insofar as it does not have to contain branch outlets or an electrical protection device comparable to the elements 70 and 80, the base 101 may have a dimension parallel to the longitudinal direction X which is less than that of the base 42.

[0090] Advantageously, the base 101 defines corridors, each corridor receiving one of the downstream parts 25b and the upstream part 25a immediately following this downstream part 25b in the longitudinal direction X, of one of the bars 25. Advantageously, two additional corridors each receive one of the communication cables.

[0091] The junction box 100 also comprises an external face 102, fixed to the base 101, for example by means of screws, not shown, and covering the connectors, as well as, for each bar 25, the upstream 25a and downstream 25b parts connected to the connector.

[0092] Optionally but particularly advantageously, the junction box 100 complies with the water and dust protection index standard such as IP55 or IP66, and comprises for example a seal interposed between the base 101 and the external face 102, and two sealing devices similar to the sealing devices 60 of the junction box 40, arranged on either side of the connectors in the longitudinal direction X.

[0093] In [Fig.l], the power supply assembly 1 further comprises a power supply box 110. The power supply box 110 connects a power cable 120 to the bars 25. The power cable is adapted to be connected to the current source, so that electric current flows from the current source to the power supply box 110, in the power cable 120.

[0094] The power supply housing 110 comprises a base, not visible, an intermediate casing 111 and an external face 112. The base, the intermediate casing 111 and the external face 112 are advantageously similar to the base 42 or 101, to the intermediate casing 90 and the external face 102.

[0095] In particular, the base comprises a first plate or upper plate and a second plate or lower plate, respectively comprising a plurality of first teeth or upper teeth and a plurality of second teeth or lower teeth, the base being fixed to the chute 11 by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first inner edge 14 and of the second teeth with the second inner edge 15, the base defining corridors each receiving one of the bars 25 and advantageously, the communication cables.

[0096] The intermediate casing 111 is fixed to the base and bears on the first and second plates, and thus keeps the first and second teeth engaged respectively with the first inner edge 14 and the second inner edge 15. The intermediate casing 111 comprises an opening to allow the power cable 120 to pass into the power supply housing 110.

[0097] The external face 112 is fixed to the intermediate envelope 111, for example at by means of screws not shown and covers the intermediate casing 111.

[0098] According to an advantageous variant, the power supply box 110 comprises a disconnector, not shown, fixed to the box 110, housed inside the intermediate casing 111 and covered by the external face 112. The disconnector is connected between the power supply cable 120 and the bars 25. The disconnector is configured to interrupt the flow of electric current in the electrical power supply assembly 1, for example in the event of an electrical fault in the electrical power supply assembly 1.

[0099] According to another advantageous variant, the power supply housing 110 comprises a sealing device, similar to the sealing device 60, and seals between the external face 112 and the intermediate casing 111, and between the intermediate casing 111 and the base, in particular to meet the IP-55 or IP-66 standards.

[0100] According to a variant not shown, the bars comprise only a single section. In this case, the junction box 40 is not located at a junction zone between two sections, but at the downstream part of this single section, and the junction sockets each comprise a conductive rod which passes through the sheath of one of the bars and is in contact with its core. The current distribution system then does not comprise a junction box.

[0101] In a variant not shown, the electrical power supply assembly does not include a power supply box, the bars being directly connected to the electrical source.

[0102] In a variant not shown, the electrical power supply assembly comprises only one junction box and one power supply terminal, connected to the junction box.

[0103] In a variant not shown, the electrical power supply assembly comprises only two bars, one of the two bars being configured so that a phase current flows through it, and the other of the two bars being configured to serve as neutral.

[0104] It is understood that the system 10 includes numerous advantages. In particular, a user can choose to form a junction zone 28 wherever he wishes, for example by cutting a bar 25 and stripping the core 26 to form the ends 28a and 28b.

[0105] The base 42 of the junction box 40 can also be fixed at any point of the trunking 11, thus, the junction box 40 can be fixed on the trunking regardless of the position of the junction zone 28 along the trunking 11.

[0106] The system 10 also makes it possible to equip the support surface without it being necessary to install all the elements of the system 10. For example, during a first equipment step, also called the pre-equipment step, the user only installs the trunking 11 and the cover 47. Optionally, he also installs a base 42, an intermediate casing 90 and an external face 95 of a junction box 40. Subsequently, the rest of the system 10 is installed, depending on the needs, and / or the pre-equipment step equipment is repeated with a view to extending the system 10. The pre-equipment step requires the use of little material, leaving a wide possibility of adaptation to the wishes of the user at low cost.

[0107] Thus, the system 10 easily adapts to different needs, and also to changes in the user's needs over time, by making it possible to remove or add power supply terminals 5, junction boxes 40 and by creating additional junction zones 28. For example, with reference to [Fig.l], if the user equips a first parking space with a power supply terminal and then wishes a greater density of power supply terminals 5 than what he had initially planned, for example, to equip two additional parking spaces, it is possible to modify the system 10, without having to change it entirely.

[0108] Any feature described for one embodiment or variation in the foregoing may be implemented for the other embodiments and variations described above, as long as technically feasible.

Claims

Claims

1. A power distribution system (10) comprising: - a chute (11) adapted to be fixed to a support surface (8), extending in a longitudinal direction (X), the chute (11) comprising a bottom (13), a first edge (14) and a second edge (15), the first and second edges (14, 15) extending on either side of the bottom (13) in a transverse direction (Y) and each comprising fixing notches (19); - several bars (25), extending at least partially in the chute (11) in the longitudinal direction (X), each bar (25) comprising a core (26) made of electrically conductive material configured to conduct an electric current, and a sheath (27) surrounding the core (26), the sheath (27) being electrically insulating; and - a junction box (40), characterized in that the distribution system (10) further comprises: - a holding device (30) comprising: • a support (32), extending in the transverse direction (Y), the support (32) comprising notches (36) each receiving a bar (25), a first lock (38) and a second lock (39), which cooperate respectively with a fixing notch (19) of the first edge (14) and a fixing notch (19) of the second edge (15) and, • a counter-support (34), bearing against the support (32) in a thickness direction (Z), the counter-support (34) elastically deforming the first lock (38) and the second lock (39) in order to maintain the first lock (38) and the second lock (39) in cooperation respectively with the fixing notch (19) of the first edge (14) and the fixing notch (19) of the second edge (15), - a cover (47), fitted onto the chute (11) and covering the chute (11), the bars (25) and the holding device (30); and in that the junction box (40) comprises: • a base (42), comprising a first plate (44) and a second plate (45) which respectively comprise a plurality of first teeth (48) and a plurality of second teeth (49), the base (42) being fixed to the chute (11) by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth (48) with the first edge (14) and of the second teeth (49) with the second edge (15) of the chute, the base (42) defining corridors (51) each receiving a bar (25); • branch outlets (70), each branch outlet (70) being connected to one of the bars (25), • an electrical protection device (80), connected to at least one of the branch outlets (70), • an intermediate casing (90), fixed to the base (42) and surrounding the base (42), the branch connections (70) and the electrical protection device (80), the intermediate casing (90) bearing on the first plate (44) and on the second plate (45), the intermediate casing (90) holding the first and second teeth (48, 49) in engagement respectively with the first edge (14) and with the second edge (15), and • an external face (95), fixed on the intermediate casing (90) and covering the branch sockets (70) and the electrical protection device (80).

2. System (10) according to claim 1, wherein the junction box (40) further comprises two sealing devices (60) arranged on either side of the junction sockets (70) and the electrical protection device (80) in the longitudinal direction (X), each sealing device (60) comprising: - a seal (62), extending in the transverse direction (Y), housed in the base (42), the seal (62) comprising notches (65) each receiving one of the bars (25); and - a counter-joint (63), extending in the transverse direction (Y), the bars (25) being interposed between the joint (62) and the counter-seal (63), the counter-seal (63) being flush with the first and second plates (44, 45).

3. A system (10) according to any preceding claim, further comprising a power supply unit (110), comprising: - a base comprising a first plate and a second plate, respectively comprising a plurality of first teeth and a plurality of second teeth, the base being fixed to the chute (11) by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge, the base defining corridors each receiving one of the bars (25), - a disconnector, connected between a power cable (120) and the bars (25), the power cable (120) being able to be connected to an electrical source; - an intermediate casing (111), fixed to the base and surrounding the base and the disconnector, the intermediate casing (111) comprising an opening to allow the power cable (120) to pass through, the intermediate casing (111) bearing on the first and second plates and thus keeping the first and second teeth engaged respectively with the first edge (14) and with the second edge (15); and - an external face (112), fixed on the intermediate casing (111) and covering the disconnector.

4. System (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the bars (25) each comprise an upstream portion (25a) and a downstream portion (25b), each upstream portion (25a) comprising a first end (28a) at which the core (26) is visible, each downstream portion (25b) comprising a second end (28b) at which the core (26) is visible, the second end (28b) bearing on the first end (28a) in the thickness direction (Z), the system (10) further comprising: - a junction box (100), comprising: • connectors (75), each connector connecting, for one of the given bars (25), the first end (28a) and the second end (28b) between them, • a base (101), surrounding the first (28a) and second (28b) ends and the connectors, the base (101) comprising a first plate and a second plate which respectively comprise a plurality of first teeth and a plurality of second teeth, the base being fixed to the chute (11) by cooperation of shapes of the first teeth with the first edge and of the second teeth with the second edge of the chute (11), the base (101) defining corridors each receiving the upstream part (25a) and the downstream part (25b) of one of the bars (25); and - an external face (112), fixed on the base (101) and covering the connectors and the first (28a) and the second (28b) end of the upstream (25a) and downstream (25b) parts of each bar (25).

5. System (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the junction box (40) further comprises a measuring device (85), configured to measure an electrical consumption.

6. A system (10) according to any preceding claim, comprising five bars (25), the bars (25) being configured to conduct respectively a first phase, a second phase, a third phase, a neutral and a potential reference.

7. System (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of holding devices (30), distributed along the longitudinal direction (X).

8. Power supply assembly (1) comprising: - the system (10) according to any one of the preceding claims; - at least one power supply terminal (5), connected to the electrical protection device (80), configured to supply an electrical load when connected to the power supply terminal (5) by a user.

9. Power supply assembly (1) according to claim 8, further comprising a communication cable, connecting the power supply terminal (5) to an electronic control unit, the support (32) comprising a notch (37) receiving the communication cable.

10. Assembly (1) according to claim 9 in which the electrical load is a battery of an electric vehicle (7).

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