Aircraft connector assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to an electrical connector for transmitting a power signal over a power line (210), the electrical connector comprising an electrical contact configured to be connected to the power line (210) and an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line (103). The invention further relates to an electrical connection system (100) comprising a set of electrical connectors (1a, 1b). The invention also relates to an aircraft electrical connection network comprising the electrical connection system (100). Figure 2

Description

Title of the invention: Aircraft connector assembly Technical field of the invention

[0001] The invention relates to an electrical connector comprising an electrical contact and an optical contact. The invention further relates to an electrical connection system comprising the electrical connector and intended for use in an aircraft. The invention relates in particular to the transmission of high-power electrical signals on board aircraft, notably for electric or hybrid aircraft propulsion. State of the art

[0002] Climate change is a major concern for many legislative and regulatory bodies worldwide. Indeed, various restrictions on carbon emissions have been, are being, or will be adopted by various states. In particular, an ambitious standard applies both to new types of aircraft and to those already in operation, requiring the implementation of technological solutions to bring them into compliance with current regulations. Civil aviation has been actively working for several years now to contribute to the fight against climate change.

[0003] Technological research efforts have already led to very significant improvements in the environmental performance of aircraft. The Applicant takes into account the factors impacting all phases of design and development in order to obtain aeronautical components and products that are less energy-intensive, more environmentally friendly, and whose integration and use in civil aviation have moderate environmental consequences, with the aim of improving the energy efficiency of aircraft.

[0004] This sustained research and development work focuses in particular on new generations of hybrid thermal and electric aircraft engines. The Applicant's objective is, in particular, to develop aircraft incorporating a high-power electrical generation system. This would increase the proportion of electrical equipment on board in order to reduce fuel consumption.

[0005] Electrification and electric hybridization of the propulsion system of future-generation aircraft are necessary developments to meet increasing demands for sustainability and energy efficiency. These technologies require high electrical power to generate the thrust necessary for takeoff and flight. By integrating electric or hybrid motors, aircraft can benefit from a significant reduction in power consumption. carbon emissions, reduced noise, and improved energy efficiency are key advancements. These improvements are essential to meet increasingly stringent environmental regulations and ensure the sustainable growth of the aerospace industry.

[0006] All types of aircraft can benefit from these technologies, whether they are vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL), short takeoff and landing (STOL), or conventional takeoff and landing (CTOL) aircraft. This includes commercial aircraft, which could see a reduction in operating costs thanks to lower fuel consumption, as well as military aircraft, helicopters, and drones, which could benefit from improved stealth and operational capabilities thanks to reduced noise and thermal signatures.

[0007] Generally, high electrical power is obtained by combining large currents with high voltages at high frequencies. For example, the topics currently being studied for aeronautical applications feature direct current (DC), alternating current (AC), or pulse-width modulation (PWM) voltage values ​​between 230V and 3000V with current values ​​between 100A and 1000A. For these applications, the electrical frequency for the alternating current and pulse-width modulation voltage is between 400Hz and 3000Hz.

[0008] In an aircraft, the electrical wiring interconnection system (EWIS) is the network that carries electrical power to distribute it among the numerous electrical components such as generators, batteries, power electronics, and electric motors, which are distributed throughout the aircraft. The EWIS comprises a set of electrical harnesses made up of cables equipped with connectors at their ends to connect them to each other or to the equipment. The EWIS must be capable of carrying high currents and high voltages under optimal safety conditions for operators and other surrounding systems, throughout all phases of the aircraft's life cycle (mission, maintenance, repair, testing, etc.).

[0009] In many sectors, such as industry, land transport, and energy, connectors are equipped with a safety function called a safety loop (SL: safety loop or interlock in Anglo-Saxon terminology). This safety function is implemented by a detection circuit that detects the coupling or decoupling state (connected or disconnected position) of two connectors, for example, and transmits the information relating to the connection of the connectors to the control system connected to the connectors.

[0010] The information relating to the connection of the connectors is transmitted by the detection circuit to the electronic control circuits which control the switching devices included in the electrical equipment of the system, making it possible to cut off the supply of the electrical power signal which flows in the connectors.

[0011] For example, when the detection circuit is closed, this means that the connectors are coupled and that, consequently, energizing the power link is possible.

[0012] Conversely, if the detection circuit is open, this means that the connectors are uncoupled, and that a power-off of the power link must take place.

[0013] During the disconnection maneuver of the connectors, the detection circuit opens and the main power supply is cut off before the power contacts are disengaged and accessible to the operators.

[0014] The detection circuit therefore prevents the disconnection of the live connectors, thus ensuring protection of persons against the risks of electric shock / electrocution, and protection of the connector and equipment against series electric arc during unlocking, as well as protection against a short circuit during the operation.

[0015] The prior art detection circuit comprises a low-power signaling electrical link with a bidirectional path through the electrical connectors. Upon disconnection, the contacts of the detection circuit separate from the connectors before the power contacts are disengaged. Opening the detection circuit results in the power supply being cut off.

[0016] However, the problem with these existing solutions is the coexistence, in the same connector, of low-power and high-power signals operating under high DC, AC, or pulse-width modulation voltage. This coexistence of low-power and high-power signals makes it impossible to comply with the rules of signal segregation.

[0017] Furthermore, existing solutions present the risk of high-power signal leakage from the power link to the low-power signal circuit in the event of a short circuit at the connector. This can lead to disruption of the low-power signal network, damage to electronic control equipment not designed to withstand high voltages, and danger to operators.

[0018] The detection circuit may also be subject to electromagnetic interference (EMI) generated by the power link during system operation. Summary of the invention

[0019] The object of the present invention is to resolve all or part of the disadvantages listed above.

[0020] To this end, the invention relates to an electrical connector intended for the transmission of a power electrical signal over a power line, the electrical connector comprising: - an electrical contact configured to be connected to the power line and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration, - an optical contact configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line, and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector in which the electrical contact is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector, the optical contact being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration.

[0021] Advantageously, the electrical connector allows for the reliable detection of a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with a complementary electrical connector and makes it possible to overcome electromagnetic disturbances that may result from the coexistence, within the same electrical connector, of low power and high power electrical signals.

[0022] Advantageously, the intermediate configuration allows for the detection of an interruption in an optical connection between the electrical connector and the complementary electrical connector so as to allow for the de-energization of the power line in order to inform a higher-order system connected to the power line of the opening of the power line in order, for example, to protect the operator who is handling the electrical connector.

[0023] The electrical connector may further have the following characteristic.

[0024] According to one feature, said electrical connector is configured to allow, within said electrical connector, the simultaneous circulation of an optical signal of diagnostics in the optical contact and electrical power signal in the electrical contact.

[0025] Advantageously, the simultaneous circulation of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact and the electrical power signal in the electrical contact makes it possible to verify the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with a complementary electrical connector in order to detect the opening of the electrical power line in order, among other things, to protect the equipment of the electrical chain; monitor the electrical connection network, and protect an operator from a risk of electrocution while freeing oneself from potential electromagnetic disturbances within the electrical connector.

[0026] The invention further relates to an electrical connection system comprising: - a set of connectors including: a primary electrical connector as described previously, and a secondary electrical connector as described above, the secondary electrical connector being complementary to the primary electrical connector, - a power module electrically connected to the connector assembly and configured to generate a power electrical signal, - a control module connected to the power module and configured to act on the power module based on a diagnostic optical signal intended to allow verification of the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector with the optical contact of the secondary electrical connector, - an optical diagnostic line linking the control module to the optical contact of the primary electrical connector and configured to allow the flow of the optical diagnostic signal.

[0027] The electrical connection system may have one or more of the following characteristics, taken alone or in combination.

[0028] According to one characteristic, the diagnostic optical line is an optical fiber and the diagnostic optical signal is a light signal.

[0029] Advantageously, optical fiber allows for fast and reliable transmission of the optical diagnostic signal, and offers reduced maintenance costs compared to state-of-the-art solutions based on an electrical diagnostic signal.

[0030] Advantageously, optical fiber is insensitive to electrical power signals and electromagnetic interference (EMI).

[0031] Optical fiber advantageously allows the addition of auxiliary functions such as the use of a visual indicator light for an operator or a measurement of the temperature of the electrical connector at the electrical contact.

[0032] The use of an optical fiber to provide the safety loop function (or interlock in Anglo-Saxon terminology) makes it possible to eliminate the issues of segregation of the detection signal and the power signal, electromagnetic interference (EMI) of the diagnostic signal by the electrical power signal, the problem of damage to electrical equipment in case of short circuit and the risks of electric shock or electrocution for operators in case of short circuit.

[0033] Advantageously, it is possible to monitor several electrical connectors, in particular electrical connectors cooperating with each other, with a single optical fiber.

[0034] Optical fiber allows real-time measurement of the temperature of the electrical contact of the electrical connector and allows detection of thermal runaway which is generally the cause of problems on power electrical links, in particular due to a phenomenon of fretting corrosion of the electrical contact.

[0035] Optical fiber allows for sharing or pooling the optoelectronic conversion device with other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system. For example, pooling would be possible for the temperature measurement function via the Bragg analyzer or other embedded systems present on certain aircraft programs.

[0036] According to one feature, the electrical connection system further comprises: - an optoelectronic conversion device connected on one side to the optical diagnostic line and on the other side to the control module, and configured to generate control information for the control module based on the optical diagnostic signal, and to generate the optical diagnostic signal based on the electrical control signal.

[0037] Advantageously, integrating an optoelectronic conversion device between the optical diagnostic line and the control module significantly improves the system's accuracy, responsiveness, and reliability. The rapid conversion of optical signals into electrical signals and vice versa enables near-instantaneous transmission of diagnostic and control information. This enhances the responsiveness of the control system, allowing for faster adjustments and responses to changing conditions in the electrical connection system.

[0038] According to one feature, the diagnostic optical line is connected to a temperature sensor, preferably a Bragg sensor or a Brillouin sensor, configured to measure a temperature of at least one of the two electrical connectors among the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector, and / or a temperature of the electrical contact.

[0039] Advantageously, the temperature sensor allows monitoring of the temperature of the electrical connector and / or the temperature of the electrical contact of in order to avoid overheating of the electrical connector and thus improve the lifespan of the electrical connection system.

[0040] Advantageously, the Bragg sensor or the Brillouin sensor offers high accuracy, robustness, and high resolution in temperature measurement. The Bragg sensor or the Brillouin sensor also allows temperature measurement at various points along the diagnostic optical line.

[0041] According to one feature, the diagnostic optical line is connected to an indication component configured to transmit an indication signal, and at least one of the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector includes an opening configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system.

[0042] Advantageously, the indication component allows for a simple and quick check of whether the electrical connection system is functioning normally or not and for detecting an interruption in the transmission of the diagnostic optical signal while indicating a fault such as arcing, friction or wear affecting the electrical line.

[0043] According to one feature, the secondary electrical connector includes a reflector configured to reflect the diagnostic optical signal back into the diagnostic optical line.

[0044] Advantageously, the reflector allows a single optical diagnostic line to be used for bidirectional routing of the optical diagnostic signal.

[0045] According to one feature, the diagnostic optical line comprises: - a first optical channel configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device to the secondary electrical connector, and - a second optical channel, different from the first optical channel, and configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector to the optoelectronic conversion device, the first optical channel and the second optical channel being linked together in such a way as to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal in the first optical channel and the second optical channel.

[0046] Advantageously, the use of two separate optical channels for transmitting the diagnostic optical signal increases the robustness of the electrical connection system by reducing the risk of failure and optical losses due to reflection of the diagnostic optical signal. Furthermore, the electrical connection system, comprising the first and second optical channels, integrates easily into existing aeronautical systems, reducing implementation costs and improving adaptability to existing aeronautical systems.

[0047] According to one feature, the electrical connection system comprises a portion of electrical line disposed between the primary electrical connector and the connector secondary electrical, said portion of electrical line being provided with an electrical connector as described above at each end of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector.

[0048] Advantageously, the insertion of a portion of line between the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector allows the electrical connection system to be extended spatially while retaining the diagnostic function which offers safety against a risk of electrocution, for example. Brief description of the figures

[0049] The invention will be described with reference to the following figures, which are given for illustrative purposes only and are not reproduced to scale.

[0050] [Fig-1] [Fig.1] is a front view of an electrical connector according to the invention.

[0051] [Fig.2] [Fig.2] presents a first embodiment of a connection system electrical including among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0052] [Fig.3] [Fig.3] presents a second embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to a temperature sensor, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0053] [Fig.4] [Fig.4] presents a third embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to an indication component, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0054] [Fig.5] [Fig.5] presents a fourth embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising among other things a set of connectors according to the invention, a diagnostic optical line connected to an indication component and a temperature sensor, and an optoelectronic conversion device.

[0055] [Fig.6] [Fig.6] presents a fifth embodiment of the electrical connection system in which the diagnostic optical line comprises a first optical channel and a second optical channel.

[0056] [Fig.7] [Fig.7] presents a sixth embodiment of the electrical connection system comprising a portion of electrical line disposed between the primary electrical connector and the secondary electrical connector of the connector assembly.

[0057] [Fig.8] [Fig.8] presents a seventh embodiment of the electrical connection system in which the optoelectronic conversion device is common to the electrical connection system and other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system.

[0058] [Fig.9] [Fig.9] presents an eighth embodiment of the connection system electrical in which the diagnostic optical line is connected to two temperature sensors, the first sensor measuring the temperature of the power electrical line and the second sensor measuring the temperature of the power electrical contact.

[0059] Features and advantages will become apparent from the detailed description that follows and which is made with reference to the figures listed above. Detailed description

[0060] The invention relates primarily to an electrical connector 1 intended for the transmission of a power electrical signal on a power electrical line 210. An example of the electrical connector 1 is shown in [Fig.1].

[0061] The electrical connector 1 includes an electrical contact 10 configured to be connected to the power line 210. The electrical contact 10 is also configured to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with the complementary electrical connector.

[0062] The electrical contact 10 is configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration.

[0063] The electrical connector 1 also includes an optical contact 11 configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line 103, and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration.

[0064] The electrical contact 10 may be in the form of a metal pin and may be made of copper or a copper alloy for good electrical conductivity. The electrical contact 10 may have a protective coating, for example a layer of gold or silver.

[0065] The optical contact 11 may be in the form of a tube, in particular made of ceramic or metal. The optical contact 11 serves to guide the diagnostic optical line 103 in the electrical connector 1. The optical contact 11 may be bonded to one end of the diagnostic optical line 103. The optical contact 11 may be assembled in the electrical connector 1 or the complementary electrical connector as with the electrical contact 10. The optical contact 11 may include a guide tube for aligning the ends of two optical contacts to be connected. The two Optical contacts to be linked can cooperate and can be held together by a spring to ensure transmission of the optical signal.

[0066] The electrical connector 1 may include several electrical contacts and several optical contacts.

[0067] Advantageously, the electrical connector 1 allows for the reliable detection of a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector and makes it possible to overcome electromagnetic disturbances that may result from the coexistence, within the same electrical connector, of low power and high power electrical signals.

[0068] The connector may have a housing as shown in [Fig. 1], in particular made of plastic or metal. The housing may be circular, rectangular, or otherwise shaped. The housing provides protection for the electrical contact 10 and the optical contact 11, and also serves to retain the electrical connector 1 and the complementary electrical connector by allowing them to be connected and disconnected.

[0069] The electrical contact 10 can cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector 1 with the complementary electrical connector, while the optical contact 11 is separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration. The optical contacts can therefore separate before the electrical contacts separate so that, when the optical signal is lost, the electrical contact 10 can still cooperate with the complementary electrical contact. The power line 210 remains operational, and the electrical connection system 100 can remain protected by the housing of the electrical connector 1 while awaiting a disconnection command from a control module 102.

[0070] Advantageously, the intermediate configuration allows for the detection of an interruption in the cooperation between the electrical connector 1 and the complementary electrical connector so as to allow for the de-energization of the power line 210 in order to protect an operator who is handling the electrical connector 1 from a risk of electrocution, for example.

[0071] The electrical connector 1 can allow, within said electrical connector 1, a simultaneous flow of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact 11 and of the electrical power signal in the electrical contact 10.

[0072] Advantageously, the simultaneous circulation of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact 11 and the electrical power signal in the electrical contact makes it possible to verify the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector in order to protect an operator from a risk of electrocution while avoiding potential electromagnetic disturbances within the electrical connector 1.

[0073] The invention relates secondly to a set of electrical connectors la, 1b which are shown in figures 2 to 9.

[0074] The electrical connector assembly la, 1b comprises a primary electrical connector la as described above and a secondary electrical connector 1b as described above. The secondary electrical connector 1b is complementary to the primary electrical connector la; in other words, the secondary electrical connector 1b is capable of cooperating with the primary electrical connector la, as can be seen in Figures 2 to 9.

[0075] The invention relates thirdly to an electrical connection system 100. Several embodiments of this electrical connection system 100 are shown in Figures 2 to 9.

[0076] The electrical connection system 100 comprises the set of connectors la, 1b as described above. In Figures 2 to 9, the primary electrical connector la cooperates with the secondary electrical connector 1b; in other words, connectors la and 1b are in a cooperative configuration.

[0077] The connection system 100 also includes a power module 101 electrically connected to the connector assembly 1a, 1b. The power module 101 is configured to generate a power electrical signal. The power module 101 is, for example, a power converter or a switched-mode power supply, and in particular a DC / DC or DC / AC converter or another type of power converter. The power module 101 can also be a distribution module, or a generator or a battery equipped with a power interruption system.

[0078] The connection system 100 also includes a control module 102 connected to the power module 101. The control module 102 is configured to act on the power module 101 based on a diagnostic optical signal intended to verify the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector 1a with the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b. The control module 102 may, for example, be a microprocessor capable of providing a control function for the power module 101.

[0079] For example, if the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b are in a separation configuration, then the control module 102 can send a command to the power module 101 so that the power module 101 ceases to supply the electrical power signal via the power line. The power line 210 can be an electrical cable or a busbar.

[0080] The connection system 100 also includes a diagnostic optical line 103 connecting the control module to the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector and configured to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal.

[0081] The diagnostic optical line 103 can be an optical fiber. The diagnostic optical signal can be a light signal.

[0082] Advantageously, optical fiber allows for fast and reliable transmission of the optical diagnostic signal, and offers reduced maintenance costs compared to state-of-the-art solutions based on an electrical diagnostic signal.

[0083] The use of the optical contact 11 to detect a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector 1 with a complementary electrical connector makes it possible to ensure galvanic isolation between the power electrical line and the diagnostic optical line 103 because the optical fiber is insensitive to the electrical signal and cannot transmit said electrical signal because said optical fiber is made of an insulating material.

[0084] The connection system 100 may be in the form of a kit comprising all the elements mentioned above which are included in the connection system 100.

[0085] In the embodiments shown in figures 2 to 9, the electrical connection system 100 includes an optoelectronic conversion device 104 connected on one side to the diagnostic optical line 103 and on the other side to the control module 102.

[0086] The optoelectronic conversion device 104 can generate control information for the control module 102 based on the diagnostic optical signal or the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal received by the optoelectronic conversion device 104. The optoelectronic conversion device 104 can further generate the diagnostic optical signal based on the electrical control signal generated by the control module 102.

[0087] Advantageously, integrating an optoelectronic conversion device 104 between the diagnostic optical line 103 and the control module 102 significantly improves the accuracy, responsiveness, and reliability of the system. The rapid conversion of optical signals into electrical signals and vice versa enables near-instantaneous transmission of diagnostic and control information. This improves the responsiveness of the control system, allowing for faster adjustments and responses to changing conditions in the electrical connection system 100.

[0088] In the embodiment of [Fig. 2], the power module 101 supplies a power electrical signal to the primary electrical connector via the power electrical link 210. The power electrical link 210 is a cable The electrical connection is sized to allow the transmission of the power signal from the power module 101 to the primary electrical connector 1a. The primary electrical connector 1a cooperates with the secondary electrical connector 1b in the cooperative configuration. In other words, the electrical contact 10 of the primary electrical connector 1a is connected to the electrical contact 10 of the secondary electrical connector 1b, and the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector 1a is connected to the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b. The power signal then flows from the power module 101 through the power electrical connection 210 via connectors 1a and 1b, and to the load 220 of the electrical system 100 via another power electrical connection that links the secondary electrical connector 1b to the load 220.The 220V load could, for example, be electrical equipment on board the aircraft.

[0089] In the embodiment of [Fig. 2], the optoelectronic conversion device 104, connected on one side to the diagnostic optical line 103 and on the other side to the control module 102, is a time-domain optical reflectometer (OTDR). The time-domain optical reflectometer outputs the diagnostic optical signal from the control signal generated by the control module 102. The diagnostic optical signal travels through the diagnostic optical line 103 and is reflected by a reflector (not shown in the figures) included in the secondary electrical connector 1b.

[0090] Advantageously, the reflector allows a single optical diagnostic line 103 to be used for bidirectional routing of the optical diagnostic signal, and thus to reduce the size and mass of the electrical connection system 100.

[0091] The time-domain optical reflectometer (TDO) detects all or part of the optical signal reflected by the reflector and provides information about the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal to an operator. As long as the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal is detected by the TDO, the electrical connectors 1a, 1b are in a cooperative configuration, and the power module continues to supply the power signal. If the optical contact 11 of the primary electrical connector 1a separates from the optical contact 11 of the secondary electrical connector 1b, the diagnostic optical signal is no longer reflected by the reflector, and the TDO no longer detects the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal.The time-domain optical reflectometer then indicates to an operator the absence of reflection of the diagnostic optical signal, and the operator can act on the control module 102 so that the control module 102 acts on the power module 101 so that the power module 101 ceases to transmit the electrical power signal. The flow of the electrical power signal is then interrupted. Alternatively, the time-domain optical reflectometer (TDOR) directly communicates the absence of detected reflection of the diagnostic optical signal to the control module 102. The control module 102 then acts on the power module 101, causing the power module 101 to interrupt the generation of the electrical power signal. Consequently, no electrical power signal is transmitted to the load 220.

[0092] The operation of the embodiment of [Fig. 3] is the same as that of [Fig. 2] with two differences: first, the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to a temperature sensor 105, in particular a temperature sensor integrated into the diagnostic optical line 103, which is configured to measure the temperature of the secondary electrical connector 1b; second, the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is an optical analyzer. In the embodiment of [Fig. 3], the temperature sensor, located in the secondary electrical connector 1b, modifies the optical properties of the diagnostic optical signal, in particular the light signal, according to the detected temperature, such as the wavelength or the light intensity.The temperature-modulated optical diagnostic signal travels along the optical diagnostic line 103 to the optical analyzer, which interprets the variations in the received optical diagnostic signal to determine the exact temperature measured by the temperature sensor 105. The optical analyzer then indicates whether there is overheating of the secondary electrical connector 1b, and this information is communicated to the control module 102, which then acts on the power module 101 to interrupt the generation of the power electrical signal. In other words, the optical diagnostic signal can continuously represent the temperature of the secondary electrical connector 1b, either recorded or provided in real time to an operator.From a certain temperature rise, a command to cut off the electrical current can be sent by the control module 102 to the power module 101 to prevent thermal runaway of the secondary electrical connector 1b which could lead to the destruction of said secondary electrical connector 1b.

[0093] Advantageously, the temperature sensor 105 makes it possible to monitor the temperature of the electrical connector 1 in order to avoid overheating of the electrical connector 1 and thus improves the service life of the electrical connection system 100.

[0094] The temperature sensor 105 can be a Bragg sensor, in particular a Bragg sensor integrated into the optical fiber, or a Brillouin sensor for example.

[0095] Advantageously, the Bragg sensor or the Brillouin sensor offers high precision, high robustness and high resolution in temperature measurement.

[0096] The operation of the embodiment of [Fig. 4] is the same as that of [Fig. 2], but in this embodiment, the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to an indicator component 106 which is configured to transmit an indicator signal. Advantageously, the indicator component 106 allows for a simple and quick verification of whether the electrical connection system 100 is functioning normally or not.

[0097] The indication component 106 can for example be an optical lens such as a diopter lens and the diopter lens can be coupled to a Y coupler or differentiator.

[0098] The indication signal can be a red colored light beam which has a central wavelength of 800 nanometers with a margin of error of plus or minus 40 nanometers.

[0099] The Y-coupler splits the diagnostic optical signal into two optical paths: a first optical path that goes to the diopter lens, and a second optical path that goes to the time-domain optical reflectometer (TDO). The diopter lens focuses the diagnostic optical signal to visually indicate that the system is operational. In this case, the secondary electrical connector 1b includes an aperture 107 to allow an operator to perceive the diagnostic optical signal outside the secondary electrical connector 1b. The TDO analyzes the reflection of the diagnostic optical system in the diagnostic optical line 103, making it possible to detect and locate faults or breaks in the diagnostic optical line 103, in other words, to detect whether the primary electrical connector 1b is in the correct configuration for cooperation with the secondary electrical connector 1b.If this is not the case, the power module 101 interrupts the generation of the electrical power signal as described above.

[0100] Alternatively or in addition, the primary electrical connector la may include an opening 107 configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system 100, and the indication component 106 may be disposed in the primary electrical connector la. Advantageously, the opening 107 may be arranged in a ring around the primary electrical connector la so as to be visible to the operator in all directions.

[0101] The embodiment of [Fig. 5] incorporates the same elements as the embodiments of Figures 3 and 4, namely the diagnostic optical line 103 which is connected to a temperature sensor 105 and an indication component 106 on the one hand, and to an optical analyzer on the other. In this case, all the elements have the same role and function in the same way as described previously for the embodiments of Figures 3 and 4.

[0102] In the embodiment of [Fig.6], the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b each comprise a first optical contact 1a and a second optical contact 11b different from the first optical contact 1a.

[0103] The diagnostic optical line 103 includes a first optical channel 108 which is connected to the first optical contact 1la of each of the electrical connectors la, 1b and which is configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device 104 to the secondary electrical connector 1b, and a second optical channel 109, different from the first optical channel 108, which is connected to the second optical contact 11b of each of the electrical connectors la, 1b and which is configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector 1b to the optoelectronic conversion device 104.

[0104] As can be seen in [Fig. 6], the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109 are interconnected to allow the diagnostic optical signal to flow through the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109. The first optical contact 1a and the second optical contact 11b of the secondary electrical connector 1b are optically connected, for example, by an optical fiber housed in the secondary electrical connector 1b. The optical signal can therefore flow through the first optical channel 108, then through the first optical contact 1a, then through the optical fiber housed in the secondary electrical connector 1b, then through the second optical contact 11b, and finally into the second optical channel 109.

[0105] In the embodiment of [Fig. 6], the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is an electro-optical transducer. The electro-optical transducer generates a diagnostic optical signal from the electrical control signal, and conversely, from the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal, an electrical control signal for the control module 102. If the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b are in an intermediate or separation configuration, then the reflection of the diagnostic optical signal is not detected by the electro-optical transducer, and information is sent to the control module 102, which acts on the power module 101 to stop the generation of the electrical power signal.

[0106] Advantageously, the use of two separate optical channels for transmitting the diagnostic optical signal increases the robustness of the electrical connection system 100 by reducing the risk of failure and optical losses due to reflection of the diagnostic optical signal. Furthermore, the electrical connection system 100, comprising the first optical channel 108 and the second optical channel 109, integrates easily into existing aeronautical systems, reducing implementation costs and improving adaptability to existing aeronautical systems.

[0107] In the embodiment of [Fig. 7], the electrical connection system 100 comprises a portion of electrical line le disposed between the primary electrical connector la and the secondary electrical connector 1b. The portion of electrical line le is provided with an electrical connector as described above at each end F of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line le to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector la and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector 1b. In other words, the electrical connector at each end F of the portion of electrical line le comprises an optical contact configured to cooperate with the optical contact of the primary electrical connector la or the secondary electrical connector 1b, and an electrical contact configured to cooperate with the electrical contact of the primary electrical connector la or the secondary electrical connector 1b.

[0108] As can be seen in [Fig.7], the diagnostic optical line 103 is connected to a temperature sensor 105 disposed in the secondary electrical connector 1b and to a temperature sensor disposed in the portion of the electrical line le.

[0109] The diagnostic optical line 103 is also connected to a first indication component 106, such as a diopter lens, disposed in the electrical line portion le, and to a second indication component 106 disposed in the secondary electrical connector 1b. The electrical line portion le and the secondary electrical connector 1b each have an opening that allows the indication signal to be perceived outside the electrical connection system 100. A Y-coupler is used for the branches to the diopter lenses.

[0110] The embodiment of [Fig.7] is exactly the same as that of [Fig.5] except that one or more portions of electrical line are inserted in the embodiment of [Fig.7] between the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b. All the elements function in the same way as in the embodiment of [Fig.5].

[0111] Advantageously, the insertion of a portion of line le between the primary electrical connector la and the secondary electrical connector 1b allows the electrical connection system 100 to be extended spatially while retaining the diagnostic function which offers safety against a risk of electrocution for example.

[0112] The embodiment of [Fig.8] has the same operation as that of [Fig.3] except that the optoelectronic conversion device 104 is shared with other electrical equipment external to the electrical connection system 100.

[0113] The embodiment of [Fig. 9] has the same operation as the embodiment of [Fig. 5] with the sole difference that the optical diagnostic link is connected to a temperature sensor disposed in contact with or as close as possible to the line Power line 210. Thus, it is possible to implement monitoring of the condition of the power line 210. For example, positioning one or more BRAGG or BRILLOUIN sensors along the diagnostic optical line 103 allows the temperature of the power line 210 to be measured at different points along the power line 210. In addition, if the power line 210 is damaged, for example due to an electrical arc or if the power line 210 suffers mechanical damage, then the diagnostic optical signal is disrupted and the optoelectronic conversion device will be able to identify the signal disruption and transmit the information to the control module 102.

[0114] In all embodiments shown in Figures 2 to 9, the primary electrical connector 1a and the secondary electrical connector 1b can be of circular type as for example from standards EN2997 or EN3645 / MIL-DTL-38999, or rectangular and modular as for example from standard EN4165 or equivalent.

[0115] The diagnostic optical line 103 may be an optical fiber, and in particular a single-mode optical fiber with a core diameter of 9 or 1 Opm or equivalent. The optoelectronic conversion device may be an electro-optical transducer of the photodiode or phototransistor type, an optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR), or an optical analyzer for the Bragg or Brillouin grating, depending on the embodiment. The indication component 106 may be a diopter lens that can be coupled to a Y-coupler or differentiator, and the indication signal may be a light beam, for example, red with a center wavelength of 800 nanometers and an error margin of ±40 nanometers. The power electrical connection may be an electrical cable or a busbar.The power module 101 can be a switched-mode power supply or any other equipment capable of providing an electrical power signal, such as a generator or a battery equipped with an electrical current interruption system or an electrical distribution module, and the control module 102 can be a microprocessor.

[0116] The invention relates fourthly to an aircraft electrical connection network comprising the electrical connection system 100 as described above.

[0117] The invention applies mainly to electrical connectors intended for high power applications but also finds application in low power electrical connectors, for example in the case of critical functions which require real-time assurance that the system is operational.

[0118] The invention is not limited to electric or hybrid propulsion, it can be applied to any type of electrical power networks or systems.

[0119] The invention is not limited to the field of aeronautical transport, it can be used in all areas of land transport (automotive, rail, maritime), in the field of energy and in the field of industry.

Claims

Demands

1. Electrical connector (1) for transmitting a power electrical signal over a power electrical line (210), the electrical connector (1) comprising: - an electrical contact (10) configured to be connected to the power electrical line (210) and to cooperate electrically with a complementary electrical contact of a complementary electrical connector in a cooperation configuration of the electrical connector (1) with the complementary electrical connector, the electrical contact (10) being configured to be separated from the complementary electrical contact of the complementary connector in a separation configuration, - an optical contact (11) configured to be connected to a diagnostic optical line (103),and to cooperate optically with a complementary optical contact of a complementary electrical connector in the cooperation configuration of the electrical connector with the complementary electrical connector and to be separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary connector in the separation configuration, electrical connector (1) in which the electrical contact (10) is configured to cooperate with the complementary electrical contact of the complementary electrical connector in an intermediate configuration of the electrical connector (1) with the complementary electrical connector, the optical contact (11) being separated from the complementary optical contact of the complementary electrical connector in the intermediate configuration.

2. Electrical connector (1) according to claim 1, wherein said electrical connector (1) is configured to permit, within said electrical connector (1), simultaneous circulation of a diagnostic optical signal in the optical contact (11) and of the power electrical signal in the electrical contact (10).

3. Electrical connection system (100) comprising: - a set of connectors (la, 1b) comprising: a primary electrical connector (la) according to claim 1, and a secondary electrical connector (1b) according to claim 1, the secondary electrical connector (1b) being complementary to the primary electrical connector (la), - a power module (101) electrically connected to the assembly of connectors (la, 1b) and configured to generate a power electrical signal, - a control module (102) connected to the power module (101) and configured to act on the power module (101) on the basis of a diagnostic optical signal intended to allow verification of the cooperation between the optical contact of the primary electrical connector (la) with the optical contact (11) of the secondary electrical connector (1b), - a diagnostic optical line (103) connecting the control module to the optical contact (11) of the primary electrical connector (la) and configured to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal.

4. Electrical connection system (100) according to claim 3 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is an optical fiber and the diagnostic optical signal is a light signal.

5. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 3 or 4 further comprising: - an optoelectronic conversion device (104) connected on one side to the optical diagnostic line (103) and on the other side to the control module (102), and configured to generate control information for the control module (102) based on the optical diagnostic signal, and to generate the optical diagnostic signal based on the electrical control signal.

6. An electrical connection system (100) according to claim 5, wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) comprises: - a first optical channel (108) configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the optoelectronic conversion device (104) to the secondary electrical connector (1b), and - a second optical channel (109), different from the first optical channel (108), and configured to carry the diagnostic optical signal from the secondary electrical connector (1b) to the optoelectronic conversion device (104), the first optical channel (108) and the second optical channel (109) being connected to each other in such a way to allow the flow of the diagnostic optical signal in the first optical channel (108) and the second optical channel (109).

7. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 6 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is connected to a temperature sensor (105), preferably a Bragg sensor or a Brillouin sensor, configured to measure a temperature of at least one of the two electrical connectors among the primary electrical connector (1a) and the secondary electrical connector (1b), and / or a temperature of the electrical contact (10).

8. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 7 wherein the diagnostic optical line (103) is connected to an indication component (106) configured to transmit an indication signal, and at least one of the primary electrical connector (1a) and the secondary electrical connector (1b) comprises an opening (107) configured to allow the indication signal to be perceived in a surrounding space external to the electrical connection system (100).

9. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 8 wherein the secondary electrical connector (1b) includes a reflector configured to reflect the diagnostic optical signal into the diagnostic optical line (103).

10. Electrical connection system (100) according to any one of claims 3 to 9 comprising a portion of electrical line (the) disposed between the primary electrical connector (the) and the secondary electrical connector (1b), said portion of electrical line (the) being provided with an electrical connector according to any one of claims 1 to 3 at each end (F) of said portion of electrical line so as to allow said portion of electrical line (the) to cooperate on the one hand with the primary electrical connector (the) and on the other hand with the secondary electrical connector (1b).

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