Modular electrical protection device having a power supply module and a control module - Patents.com

Abstract

The present invention relates to a modular electrical protection device comprising at least a power supply module (5) and a control module (1). In order for the device to be particularly effective and versatile, and to be easily modified, the power supply module comprises a mechanical disconnector (53), a static switch (54) and a local control circuit (55) for commanding the static switch (54) to the OFF state, and the control module (1) comprises a trip device (10) for mechanically actuating the switching of the mechanical disconnector (53) and a main control circuit (30) for controlling the trip device (10) and for communicating with the local control circuit (55).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a control module for an electrical protection device, to a power supply module for said electrical protection device, and to an electrical protection device comprising such a module. [Background technology]

[0002] Many electromechanical electrical protection devices, such as air circuit breakers, especially miniature circuit breakers (MCBs), are physically designed to trip upon the occurrence of one of a number of electrical faults whose characteristics are predefined, such as a short circuit, an overload, or a residual current.

[0003] In order to modify the characteristics of the faults detectable by this type of device, it is necessary to physically modify the protective device, for example by replacing the bimetal plate used to detect overloads, the electromagnetic actuator used to detect short circuits, or the toroid used to detect residual currents.

[0004] Furthermore, the interrupting performance of the device is generally limited by the speed of movement of the separable contacts, which ensures insulation, and by the characteristics of the arc extinguishing chamber, the purpose of which is to extinguish an electric arc if one appears in the air between the separable contacts.

[0005] Since these known protection devices have set operating characteristics, it is necessary to provide many different types of devices, each suitable for a limited field of application. Moreover, these known protection devices are difficult to adapt to some specific fields of application, where a high level of performance is required and / or the faults to be detected change during the use of the device. For example, in a data center, the protection device may be powered, usually using an AC current, and in case of a fault of this source, it may be powered using a DC current, delivered for example by a reserve battery. In this particular case, the faults to be detected are very different between the AC and DC sources. Moreover, in case of the appearance of an electrical fault, a DC current is supplied to the DC current installation by a pack of electrochemical batteries, and in order to protect the installation, it is necessary to interrupt a very large current with a very short reaction time, for example of the order of a few microseconds.

[0006] Furthermore, depending on the installation, the number of electrodes to be protected may differ and the installation may be, for example, single-phase or multi-phase.

[0007] For compatibility with existing installations, it would also be desirable for the protection device of the present invention to be able to be housed in a casing having the same size as the casing of the electromechanical protection device. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0008] The present invention aims in particular to achieve these objectives and remedy the aforementioned drawbacks by providing a new electrical protection device that is particularly effective and versatile, that can be easily modified to accommodate the number of electrodes of the installation to be protected, and that is particularly suitable for protecting installations whose characteristics and the electrical disturbances to be detected change during use. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] Thus, one subject of the invention is a control module adapted to be integrated into a modular electrical protection device also comprising at least one power supply module, the control module comprising a control compartment intended to form part of a casing belonging to the modular electrical protection device, a tripping device capable of mechanically activating the switching of a mechanical disconnector belonging to said at least one power supply module from a conducting configuration to an isolated configuration, and a main control circuit arranged inside the control compartment and in communication with a local control circuit belonging to said at least one power supply module, the local control circuit being adapted to command a static switch belonging to said at least one power supply module to an OFF state and adapted to command the tripping device to activate the switching of the mechanical disconnector when an opening condition is met.

[0010] Another subject of the invention is therefore a power module adapted to be integrated into a modular electrical protection device which also comprises a control module, the power module being intended to form part of a casing belonging to the modular electrical protection device. a local control circuit configured to command the static switch to an OFF state when an opening condition is met, and to communicate with a main control circuit configured to control the trip device and a static switch configured to switch between a conducting configuration in which the separable contacts make mutual contact to conduct current between the input terminal and the output terminal and an isolated configuration in which the separable contacts are separated by an air gap to electrically isolate the output terminal from the input terminal, the local control circuit configured to command the static switch to an OFF state when an opening condition is met, and to communicate with a main control circuit configured to control the trip device ...

[0011] Another object of the invention is a modular electrical protection device comprising a casing, at least one power supply module as defined above, a power supply chamber forming part of the casing, and a control module as defined above, the control chamber forming part of the casing, a tripping device being capable of mechanically tripping the switching of a mechanical disconnector of said at least one power supply module from a conducting configuration to an isolated configuration, a main control circuit being in communication with a local control circuit of said at least one power supply module.

[0012] In other words, the modular apparatus comprises a casing, a control module and at least one power supply module, for example one, two, three or four power supply modules, each power supply module comprising a power supply chamber forming part of the casing, an input terminal capable of being connected to a power supply, an output terminal capable of being connected to a load intended to be powered by the power supply via said at least one power supply module, a mechanical disconnector with separable contacts arranged inside the power supply chamber, through which the terminals are electrically connected, the mechanical disconnector configured to switch between a conducting configuration in which the separable contacts make mutual contact to conduct a current between the input terminal and the output terminal, and an isolating configuration in which the separable contacts are separated by an air gap to electrically isolate the output terminal from the input terminal, a static switch with which the terminals are electrically connected, connected in series with the mechanical disconnector, and configured to transition between an on state for conducting a current between the input terminal and the output terminal and an off state for electrically isolating the output terminal from the input terminal, and a local control circuit configured to command the static switch to an off state when an open condition is met. The control module comprises a control room forming part of the casing, the control room and the power room being separate; a trip device capable of mechanically actuating the switching of a mechanical disconnector of the at least one power module from a conducting configuration to an isolated configuration; and a main control circuit arranged within the control room, in communication with a local control circuit of the at least one power module, and configured to command the trip device to actuate the switching of the mechanical disconnector when an opening condition is met.

[0013] One idea behind the invention is to make the protection device modular so that as many power modules as necessary can be provided according to the number of electrodes of the installation to be protected, without major modifications of the design of the protection device. In particular, the main control circuit can communicate with one or more local control circuits, without any design modifications, depending on the number of power modules provided. In particular, the tripping device can trip a single disconnector or multiple disconnectors, depending on the number of power modules provided. It is therefore not necessary to provide individual actuators for each power module to operate the disconnector or disconnectors. In general, each static switch is provided with an associated local control circuit preassembled with the static switch, and it is therefore industrially advantageous to provide a local control circuit for each power module. More generally, the power modules can be provided to be standard, even identical modules to one another. It is therefore particularly easy to modify the protection device to suit the installation, since in particular for a given installation it is sufficient to modify the number of power modules and potentially program the control circuits to modify the opening conditions as necessary.

[0014] Furthermore, the protection device is effective because for each electrode the power supply module allows both to quickly interrupt the relatively large currents by means of a static switch and to achieve galvanic isolation through the creation of an air gap using a disconnector. By appropriately programming the local and / or main control circuits, opening conditions can be defined that correspond to various electrical disturbances specific to installations supplied with DC current, for example, or that would be difficult to detect with conventional components of electromechanical devices.

[0015] The protection device can be easily adapted to installations whose characteristics and electrical faults to be detected change during use, since the control circuit can be pre-programmed to take into account changes after the installation is equipped. During use, depending on the situation, for example even if the power source delivers an AC current and then a DC current, the control circuit takes into account the opening conditions detailed for the arrangement of the semiconductor switch in the OFF state and / or the opening conditions detailed for the arrangement of the disconnector in the isolation configuration.

[0016] Preferably, the tripping device comprises a tripping mechanism disposed in a control room and configured to switch between an armed configuration and a tripped configuration, and a tripping bar protruding from the control room into the at least one power module, the tripping bar moving when the tripping mechanism transitions from the armed configuration to the tripped configuration, thereby mechanically actuating a switching of a mechanical disconnect of the power module from a conducting configuration to an isolated configuration.

[0017] Preferably, the trip device includes a general manual control supported by the control room and operable from outside the control room to command the trip device to switch the disconnectors of the at least one power module from a conducting configuration to an isolating configuration.

[0018] Preferably, the trip device comprises an electric actuator located within the control room and controlled by a main control circuit, which controls the trip device by controlling the electric actuator.

[0019] Preferably, the mechanical disconnect is supported by the power supply compartment and includes a local manual control mechanism operable from outside the power supply compartment to switch the mechanical disconnect between the conducting and isolating configurations.

[0020] Preferably, to determine whether an opening condition is met, the local control circuit includes a sensor system including a current sensor that measures the current flowing between the terminals, and / or a command sensor that detects actuation of a local manual control mechanism.

[0021] Preferably, the main control circuit comprises a remote communication interface for communicating with a remote device separate from the modular electrical protection device.

[0022] Preferably, the main control circuit is powered by a standby power source and the local control circuit of the at least one power supply module is electrically connected to a control module such that the local control circuit is powered by the standby power source via the control module.

[0023] Preferably, the control module includes a standby power component located within the control room while connected to the power source, the standby power component delivering standby power to the main control circuitry via conversion of the power source.

[0024] Preferably, the standby power component is connected to the power source by being electrically connected to two power supply modules of the device using wired connections, each wired connection being connected to its power supply module between an input terminal and an output terminal.

[0025] The invention also relates to an installation comprising a protection device as described above, a power source electrically connected to the input terminals of said at least one power supply module, and a load electrically connected to the output terminals of said at least one power supply module so as to be powered by the power source via the modular electrical protection device.

[0026] The invention will be better understood and other of its advantages will become more clearly apparent in the light of the following description of examples of embodiments, given with reference to the accompanying drawings, which are now briefly described. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a protection device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a view from below of the protection device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the protection device of the previous figure from another angle, with part of the casing omitted; [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a side perspective view of a power supply module belonging to the protection device of the preceding figures; [Diagram 5] FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view of the power supply module of FIG. 4, with the power supply chamber forming part of the casing of the protection device omitted; [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a side view of the power module of FIGS. 4 and 5, with a portion of the power chamber omitted. [Figure 7] FIG. 2 is a bottom perspective view of a control module belonging to the protection device of the preceding figures; [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a side view of the control module of FIG. 7, with part of the control chamber, which forms part of the casing of the protection device, omitted. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a functional diagram of the protection device of the preceding figure; [Figure 10] 3A-3C show three examples of a protection device according to the invention, which have a different number of power supply modules than in the embodiment of the preceding figures; DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0028] Figures 1 to 9 show a modular electrical protection device, or "device" for short, shown in its entirety in Figures 1 and 2, and it is intended that an electrical installation be equipped with a modular electrical protection device to provide electrical protection. Preferably, device 2 is a miniature circuit breaker.

[0029] The device comprises several modules, here one control module 1 and three power supply modules 5, and is modular since the number and arrangement of the modules can be easily modified to adapt the device to various fields of application, in particular the number of electrodes of the installation to be protected. At least a single power supply module 5 is provided. Preferably, as many power supply modules 5 are provided as there are electrodes of the installation to be protected. In this case, the device comprises three modules 5, and therefore makes it possible to protect three electrodes. Figures 3-6 show only one of the power supply modules 5. Figures 7-8 show only the control module 1.

[0030] The device comprises a casing 4 within which at least some of the components of the device are housed.

[0031] A depth direction X4, a width direction Y4 and a height direction Z4 are defined, which are perpendicular to each other and are fixed relative to the casing 4. The casing 4 is preferably manufactured from a rigid, electrically insulating material, such as, for example, a thermoformed polymer, polyamide PA6.6. The casing 4 is at least partially, and even entirely, formed by an assembly of individual casings forming compartments, each compartment belonging to one of the modules 1 and 5. The control module 1 comprises a compartment 41, called the "control room", and each power supply module 5 comprises a compartment 45, called the "power supply room", respectively. Each compartment 41 and 45 is separate from the other compartments 41 or 45. The compartments 41 and 45 are adjacent to each other and are not nested or contained in each other. The compartments 41 and 45 are fastened relative to each other, so that the casing 4 forms a single assembly.

[0032] Preferably, in order to be compatible with existing installations and to be interchangeable, giving the device a modular character, each compartment 41 and 45 has similar dimensions, or dimensions that are multiples of a basic unit of measurement. For example, each compartment 41 and 45 has a width in the direction Y4 equal to 27 mm. It can be realised, for example, that this width is a multiple of 9 mm.

[0033] Each section 41 and 45 comprises a front part 42 and a rear part 43, opposite in the direction X4, and a side part 44 and a side part 46, opposite in the direction Y4, joining the front part 42 and the rear part 43 to each other. The side part 46 faces in the direction Y4, and the side part 44 faces in the opposite direction. The front part 42 faces in the direction X4, and the rear part 43 faces in the opposite direction. The modules 1 and 5 are assembled via the respective sections 41 and 45 when they are arranged successively along the axis Y4. Here, the module 1 is arranged at one end of the device, followed by the module 5, which is arranged successively from the module 1 in the direction Y4. However, another sequence can also be adopted. Each module 1 or 5 is assembled via its side part 46 to the adjacent module 1 or 5 via its side part 44. To do this, advantageously the sides 44 and 46 are provided with complementary fastening means, for example snap-fastening hooks. The sides 44 and 46 of the end modules that are left free form the sides of the casing 4. The front 42 of the modules 1 to 5 forms the front part of the casing 4. The rear 43 of the modules 1 to 5 forms the rear part of the casing 4.

[0034] Preferably, the rear parts 43 of the modules 1 and 5 together form an attachment to enable the device to be fastened to a horizontal fastening rail parallel to the direction Y4. Preferably, the front part of the casing 4 is left accessible to an engineer when the device is integrated into a facility.

[0035] 1 to 9, each power supply module 5 comprises an input terminal 51 and an output terminal 52, which are on opposite sides of the power supply chamber 45 in a direction Z4 and open outwardly from the power supply chamber 45. The terminal 51 is disposed in the direction Z4 relative to the terminal 52, which opens in the direction Z4. The terminal 52 opens in the opposite direction. Each terminal 51 and 52 is, for example, in the form of a screw terminal. Each terminal 51 and 52 is electrically connected to a respective electrical conductor.

[0036] Each input terminal 51 is electrically connected to one of the poles of the power source 90 of the installation. If the power source 90 is an AC power source, this pole can be a phase pole or a neutral pole. If the installation is a DC installation, this pole can also be a positive pole, a negative pole or a neutral pole. It can also be realized that the poles change function, especially when the power source 90 can deliver several types of current during use, for example an AC current and then a DC current. The power source 90 can comprise a main and a standby system based on a pack of batteries and / or an inverter. For example, the power source 90 delivers an AC or DC voltage comprised between 100 and 1000 volts.

[0037] Each output terminal 52 can be electrically connected to one of the electrodes of a load 91, which is intended to be powered by the power supply 90 via the device. For each module 5, the electrodes of the load 91 to be connected to the terminals 52 correspond to the electrodes of the power supply connected to the terminals 51. For example, the load may consist of a server farm or the electrical network of a dwelling or a building used in the service sector.

[0038] The device of figures 1 and 2 is arranged to protect three electrodes of an installation, since three power supply modules 5 are provided, each corresponding to one of the electrodes. However, as shown in figure 10, it can be realised that the device is monopolar with a single module 5 (case A in figure 10), that the device is bipolar with two modules 5 (case B in figure 10) or that the device is quadripolar (case C in figure 10). To achieve this, as many power supply modules 5 are provided as there are electrodes to be protected. In all cases, advantageously a single control module 1 is provided.

[0039] As can be better understood from Figures 5 and 6, and as functionally shown in Figure 9, each power supply module 5 includes a mechanical disconnect switch 53, a static switch 54, and a local control circuit 55. In Figure 9, a single one of the power supply modules 5 is shown, but the other power supply modules have a similar structure.

[0040] The mechanical disconnect switch 53 and the static switch 54 electrically connect terminal 51 to terminal 52 and are connected in series. Specifically, the disconnect switch 53 connects terminal 51 to the switch 54, and the switch connects the disconnect switch 53 to terminal 52.

[0041] The mechanical disconnector 53 comprises separable contacts, namely a fixed contact 60, a moving contact 61 and a tripping mechanism 62. The contacts 60 and 61 and the mechanism 62 are located entirely inside the power supply chamber 45. The fixed contact 60 is fixed relative to the compartment 45, here by being fastened firmly to the switch 54. The moving contact 61, when actuated by the mechanism 62, can move relative to the compartment 45 and is electrically connected to the terminal 51 by an electrical conductor 68.

[0042] Mechanical disconnect switch 53 is shown in Figures 5 and 6 and is configured to switch between a conducting configuration in which contacts 60 and 61 are in contact with each other to conduct current between terminals 51 and 52, and an isolating configuration in which contacts 60 and 61 are separated by air gap 63 so as to electrically isolate terminals 51 and 52 from each other by air gap 63, as shown in detail in Figure 5A of the accompanying drawings.

[0043] To switch between these two configurations, the mechanism 62 actuates the contact 61 between a position in which the contact 61 abuts against the contact 60 and a position in which the contact 61 is spaced from the contact 60 such that it is no longer in contact with the contact 60 and is thus separated from the contact 60 by an air gap 63, as shown in Figures 5 and 6. Preferably, the moving contact 61 includes a conductive portion through which the moving contact 61 makes contact with the fixed contact 60 to conduct the flow of electric current, and a contact holder that supports the conductive portion and by which the contact 61 is actuated by the mechanism 62.

[0044] The mechanism 62 transitions between an arm configuration and a trip configuration and advantageously comprises a spring 64, a locking system 65 and a pivoting deck 66.

[0045] The pivoting deck 66 is mounted so that it can pivot relative to the compartment 45. The rotationwise position of the deck 66 limits, or at least controls, the position of the contacts 61. To this end, the deck 66 actuates contact holders of the contacts 61.

[0046] The spring 64 exerts a force against the deck 66 tending to pivot the deck 66 in a direction to move the contact 61 away from the contact 60. To this end, the spring 64 advantageously presses against the wall of the compartment 45.

[0047] For example, a locking system 65 supported by deck 66 can be locked to allow deck 66 to be held in an orientation such that contacts 60 and 61 are pressed against one another when the mechanism is in the arm configuration.

[0048] Preferably, the locking system 65 comprises a keeper 69 and a trigger 67. Preferably, the trigger 67 comprises a trip bar 67A and a bar detection portion 67B that are secured together. The bar 67A and portion 67B face in opposite directions parallel to the direction Y4.

[0049] The keeper 69 is mounted on the deck 66 in a manner such that it can pivot relative to the deck 66. The trigger 67 is mounted on the deck 66 in a manner such that it can pivot relative to the deck 66. The pivoting of the keeper 69 and the trigger 67 is limited by a bolt spring that tends to return the keeper 69 and the trigger 67 to the locked configuration of the locking system 65. The keeper 69 and the trigger 67 can each be actuated against the force of the bolt spring to release the locking system 65.

[0050] In the conduction configuration, the mechanism 62 is in an arm configuration, in which the mechanism keeps the contacts 60 and 61 in mutual contact. In this arm configuration, the spring 64 is stretched so as to form a store of mechanical potential energy and is held by the locking configuration of the locking system 65. To switch the mechanism 62 to the trip configuration, the locking system 65 is released. This allows the deck 66 to pivot under the action of the spring 64. The spring 64 thus pivots the deck 66, which moves the contact 61 until it separates from the contact 60 so as to obtain the air gap 63. Thus, the mechanism 62 reaches the trip configuration and the disconnector 53 reaches its separation configuration.

[0051] To return the mechanism 62 from the trip configuration to the arm configuration, the mechanism 62 is actuated, for example via the locking system 65 or the deck 66, against the force of the spring 64, which stretches the spring 64 again for future tripping. As the deck 66 pivots in the opposite direction, it moves the contact 61 until said contact abuts the contact 60. When the arm configuration is reached, the locking system 65, under the action of its bolt spring, has reached the locking configuration such that the spring 64 again prevents the mechanism 62 from switching to the trip configuration. In the arm configuration, the mechanism 63 holds itself in the arm configuration until the locking system 65 is released again.

[0052] It is also provided that the mechanical disconnector 53 comprises a mechanical control mechanism, a control mechanism 70, referred to as the "local manual control mechanism". The control mechanism 70 is supported by the front part 42 of the power supply compartment 45 so as to be manually operable by an engineer from outside the casing 4 and during use of the device. The control mechanism 70 is operable to switch the mechanical disconnector 53 between a conducting configuration and an isolating configuration.

[0053] For example, the control mechanism 70 includes a toggle switch 71 that projects from the front 42 outside the compartment 45 so as to be manually actuable by an engineer. For example, the control mechanism 70 also includes a linking rod 72 (shown in Figures 3 and 6) for mechanically linking the mechanism 62 to the toggle switch 71. Preferably, the linking rod 72 passes through a keeper 69 and links to the deck 66 so that the locking system 65 can be unlocked by actuating the keeper 69. The toggle switch 71 is movable between a closed position shown in the figures, which corresponds to a conducting configuration of the disconnector 53, and an open position, which corresponds to an isolated configuration of the disconnector 53.

[0054] When the disconnector 53 is in the conducting configuration and the toggle switch 71 moves from a closed position to an open position, the toggle switch 71 unlocks the locking system 65 via the linking rod 72. When the spring 64 places the mechanism 62 in the tripping configuration, the mechanism drives the toggle switch 71 to the open position via the linking rod 72, which is itself driven by the locking system 65 and / or the deck 66, as it advances to the tripping configuration.

[0055] When the disconnector 53 is in the isolation configuration and the toggle switch 71 moves from the open position to the closed position, the toggle switch 71 drives the mechanism 62, through the linking rod 72 which actuates the deck 66, against the force of the spring 64 to the arm configuration, thus extending the spring 64, until the conduction configuration is reached.

[0056] Further examples of mechanisms suitable for the present invention are described, for example, in EP 2975628 B1 and EP 1542253 B1.

[0057] In the isolated configuration, the disconnector 53 ensures galvanic isolation of the terminals 51 and 52 from each other and preferably of the terminal 51 from the switch 54. Advantageously, it is not necessary to provide that the mechanical disconnector 53 comprises means enabling the electric arc to be extinguished, such as an arc-extinguishing chamber, the interrupting capability being ensured by the switch 54, as will be explained below.

[0058] If several power supply modules 5 are provided, it is advantageously provided that their mechanical disconnectors 53 are mechanically coupled, so that when one of the disconnectors 53 switches between the conducting and isolating configuration, the other disconnectors 53 also switch to the same configuration. It is preferably provided that each disconnector 53 is mechanically coupled to the disconnectors 53 of the module or modules 5 adjacent to it.

[0059] In this example, it is provided that the disconnectors 53 are coupled to one another via their respective mechanisms 62. In particular, it is provided that for each pair of adjacent modules 5, the trip bar 67A of the first module 5 activates the locking system 65 of the adjacent second module 5 via mechanical interaction with the bar detection part 67B of this second module 5. For this purpose, for example, the trip bar 67A mechanically links the two adjacent mechanisms 62 via a passage through a notch provided in the side 46 of the first module 5 and a notch provided in the side 44 of the adjacent second module 5. For mechanical interaction, the bar 67A is received in the notch of the detection part 67B. As a result, the locking systems 65 of the adjacent modules 5 are synchronized and even fixed to one another via their triggers 67. At least the bar 67A of the first module 5 presses against the part 67B of the second module 5, so that the switching of the locking system 65 of the first module 5 results in the switching of the locking system 65 of the second module 5. Thus, in succession, all the locking systems 65 of the device, and therefore all the mechanisms 62, are mechanically synchronized via the trigger 67.

[0060] If several modules 5 are provided, it can advantageously be provided that their control mechanisms 70 are mechanically coupled, so that when one of the control mechanisms 70 is activated, the other control mechanisms 70 are activated as well. For this purpose, it is preferably provided, for example, that each toggle switch 71 of a first one of the modules 5 is mechanically fixed to one or more toggle switches 71 belonging to the module 5 or to a module 5 adjacent to this first module 5. To be fixed, it is provided, for example, that adjacent toggle switches 71 are linked to one another by a linking portion 73 or that adjacent toggle switches 71 are complementary. In succession, all toggle switches 71 and therefore all control mechanisms 70 of the device are fixed to one another and synchronized.

[0061] Switch 54 is configured to transition between an on state to conduct current between terminals 51 and 52 and an off state to electrically isolate terminals 51 and 52 from each other. Switch 54 is configured to interrupt current flow between terminals 51 and 52, including when the equipment is under load.

[0062] Switch 54 is a "static" switch, i.e., in contrast to a mechanical switch, it does not utilize separable contacts to transition between an on state and an off state. To this end, switch 54 includes semiconductor-based switching components, such as power transistors, that are electronically controlled. Switch 54 does not include an arc extinguishing chamber.

[0063] Preferably, the switch 54 is accommodated in a dedicated housing in the compartment 45. Even more preferably, when the compartment 45 is of the same type (even identical) to that used in standard electromechanical protection device casings, said housing corresponds respectively to the space normally occupied by the arc-extinguishing chamber and the means for detecting electrical faults, such as a bimetal and a coil (this means being, for example, so-called thermal and magnetic means). This makes it possible not to change the architecture of existing circuit breakers and to guarantee compatibility with existing installations.

[0064] Since the switch 54 and the disconnector 53 are connected in series, the module 5 can transition between an open state (OFF), where the switch 54 is in an off state and the disconnector 53 is in an isolated configuration, an intermediate state (standby), where the switch is in an off state and the disconnector is in a conducting configuration, and a closed state (ON), where the switch 54 is in an on state and the disconnector 53 is in a conducting configuration. In the closed state, the terminals 51 and 52 are electrically connected. In the other state, the terminals 51 and 52 are electrically isolated. In the open state, the terminals 51 and 52 are electrically isolated by galvanic isolation.

[0065] In the illustrated example, the static switch 54 comprises two power switches 81 and 82, electrically connected in series. Switch 81 is here connected to the disconnector 53 and to switch 82, whereas switch 82 is connected to switch 81 and to terminal 52. Each power switch can in fact be implemented via several components, such as transistors, connected in parallel, depending on the protection rating it is desired to obtain.

[0066] For example, at a rating of 16 amps, it can be realized to use two series-connected transistor pairs, with the transistors of each pair connected in parallel. At higher ratings, for example 32 amps, it is possible to use a greater number of parallel-connected transistors.

[0067] Each power switch 81 and 82 is switchable between an electrically off state and an electrically on state. For example, the power switches 81 and 82 are power transistors, for example field effect transistors, metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs). This type of transistor is preferred because it not only has a low on-state resistance, but also remains in the off-state when deactivated, for example when no control signal is sent to the control electrode. However, depending on the rating of the circuit breaker, other semiconductor technologies can be envisaged, such as insulated gate bipolar transistors (IGBTs), thyristors, integrated gate commutated thyristors (IGCTs), or indeed even other technologies. As a variant, the power switches 81 and 82 may be junction field effect transistors (JFETs). In this case, the operation of the control circuit 55 may need to be modified to take into account that such JFETs are in the on-state when deactivated.

[0068] Advantageously, as shown in Figure 9, a diode is present in parallel with each of the power switches 81 and 82. In general, it is a matter of parasitic diodes inherent in the structure of the power switches.

[0069] A local control circuit 55 is coupled to the static switch 54 so as to control it. In other words, the electronic control circuit 55 enables the switch 54 to be driven. In this example, the circuit 55 is coupled to each switch 81 and 82. Physically, it is advantageously realized that the control circuit is located between the switches 81 and 82 in the direction Y4, as shown in Figure 5, which facilitates the interconnection.

[0070] Advantageously, the switch 54 can comprise one or more components 83 for protection against overvoltages, which are connected in parallel with the one or more power switches 81 and 82 in order to protect the power switches 81 and 82 against overvoltages, in particular in case of the appearance of an electric arc. This allows the switches 81 and 82 to be protected in terms of voltage in case of operation of a circuit breaker, in particular in case the installation comprises an inductive circuit. For example, metal oxide varistors (MOVs) or TVS diodes (TVS stands for Transient Voltage Suppression) are utilized as protection components.

[0071] Preferably, the control circuit 55 comprises a processor, such as a programmable microcontroller or microprocessor. Advantageously, the processor is coupled to a computer memory or any computer-readable data storage medium containing the program, i.e. executable instructions and / or software code. Alternatively (not described in detail), the control circuit 55 may comprise a digital signal processor (DSP), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any equivalent element, or any combination of such elements.

[0072] When the program is executed by the processor or other aforementioned components, the program implements a method for commanding the control circuit 55 to switch the switch 54 from an on state to an off state and vice versa. In particular, the method is set up to cause the circuit 55 to switch the switch 54 from an on state to an off state when an open condition is met. By "open condition" is meant one or more conditions which, when considered to be met by the control circuit 55, result in the circuit 55 commanding the switch 54 to switch. To determine whether such a condition is met, the circuit 55 takes into account, for example, information delivered by the sensor system defined below and / or information delivered by the control module 1, and executes a method or algorithm to determine, in the light of this information, whether an open condition is met and the switch 54 has to be switched. Preferably, such an open condition is met in case of detection of an electrical fault, in particular at the electrode to which the power supply module 5 is connected, but preferably also at the electrode to which the other power supply module 5 is connected. Preferably, the circuit 55 can also detect the actuation of the control mechanism 70, which is another form of an open condition. Preferably, the circuit 55 can also command the switch 54 to switch to the off state when the circuit 55 receives a break order from the control module 1 or another power module 5, which is another form of an open condition.

[0073] For its operation, the circuit 55 is powered by a standby power source, advantageously delivered by the control module 1 or by an external power source, as will be explained below.

[0074] The control module 1 (shown alone in Figures 7 and 8) comprises a trip device 10 and a control circuit 30, referred to as the "main" control circuit.

[0075] In this example, the tripping device 10 comprises a tripping mechanism 11, an electric actuator 12 and a manual control mechanism 20, referred to as the "general" manual control mechanism.

[0076] The function of the tripping device 10 is to mechanically activate the switching of the mechanical disconnector 53 of the module 5 between the conducting and isolated configurations when commanded by the control circuit 30 or when actuated via toggling of the general manual control mechanism 20. In order for the tripping device 10 to be able to activate the disconnector 53, it is advantageously provided that the tripping device 10 is mechanically coupled to the mechanical disconnector 53 of the module 5 adjacent to the module 1, for the purpose of switching this disconnector 53 between the conducting and isolated configurations. In the case of several modules 5, the other disconnectors 53 are synchronized, preferably using the aforementioned trigger 67, so that the other disconnectors 53 are activated in the same manner in succession, each activating the bar detection portion 67B of the adjacent module 5. With this procedure, when the module 1 activates the disconnector 53 of the module 5 adjacent to the module, any other disconnectors 53 belonging to any other module 5 present are automatically activated. Therefore, whatever the number of modules 5 provided to form the device, only one trip device 10 is required. Whatever the number of disconnectors 53, it is easy to add or remove modules 5, since no modification of the trip device 10 or the module 1 is required to operate all disconnectors 53 in succession. The trip device 10 allows the module 1 to centrally and synchronously control the disconnectors 53 of any module 5 included in the device.

[0077] The trip mechanism 11 is configured to switch between an arm configuration corresponding to a conduction configuration of the disconnector 53 and a trip configuration corresponding to a disconnection configuration of the disconnector 53. Preferably, the trip mechanism 11 operates similarly to the trip mechanism 62 of the power module 5, except that the control module 1 advantageously does not include separable contacts and therefore the mechanism 11 advantageously does not need to directly actuate the separable contacts.

[0078] Advantageously, the mechanism 11 comprises a spring 14 , a bolt 15 , a pivoting deck 16 , a trip bar 17 and a keeper 19 .

[0079] The deck 16 is mounted so that it can pivot relative to the section 41. The spring 14 exerts a force on the deck 16 tending to cause it to pivot.

[0080] The bolt 15 and the keeper 19 form a locking system for the mechanism 11, which is supported by the deck 16. Preferably, the bolt 15 is mounted so as to be pivotable relative to the deck 16, and the keeper 19 is mounted so as to be pivotable relative to the deck 16, with the keeper 19 and the bolt 15 subjected to a force by a locking spring tending to return the keeper 19 and the bolt 15 to a locked configuration. This locking system allows the deck 16 to be kept in an armed orientation when locked and when the mechanism 11 is in an armed configuration. This locking system further allows the deck 16 to pivot under the action of the spring 14 when released via actuation of the bolt 15 or the keeper 19 against the force of the locking spring. When this occurs, the spring 14 switches the mechanism 11 from the armed configuration to the tripped configuration. The keeper 19 and the bolt 15 can each be independently actuated against the force of the bolt spring to release the locking system.

[0081] The trip bar 17 is here mounted so that it can pivot relative to the section 41. The trip bar 17 is driven by the deck 16 when the mechanism 11 moves from the trip configuration to the arm configuration. The trip bar 17 can also drive the bolt 15 to actuate the mechanism 11 when the bar 17 is actuated by the mechanism 62 of the adjacent module 5, as will be explained below. Under the force of the locking spring, the bolt 15 drives the bar 17 in the opposite direction when the mechanism 11 moves from the arm configuration to the trip configuration. The position of the trip bar 17 therefore changes depending on whether the mechanism 11 is in the arm configuration or in the trip configuration.

[0082] Except for one end of the bar 17 (shown in FIG. 7), the mechanism 11 is entirely contained within the control chamber 41 .

[0083] In this example, it is provided that the tripping devices 10 and the disconnectors 53 of adjacent modules 5 are coupled to each other via their respective mechanisms 11 and 62. In particular, it is provided that the bar 17 mechanically links the two adjacent mechanisms 11 and 62 via a passage through a notch provided in the side 46 of the module 1 and a notch provided in the side 44 of the adjacent module 5. The bar 17 is coupled to the bar detection portion 67B of the adjacent module 5. In the case where the adjacent modules 1 and 5 are inverted or where the module 1 is placed between the two modules 5 adjacent to the module 1, it can be provided that the bar 17 comprises a notch for receiving the bar 67A of the adjacent module 5, which passes through the notch provided in the side 44 of the module 1 and the notch provided in the side 46 of the adjacent module 5.

[0084] In either case, the tripping bars 17 and 67A of all modules are coupled via mechanical interaction, since they press against each other and / or are mechanically fixed to each other. Thus, when the mechanism 11 moves from the arm configuration to the tripping configuration, the bar 17 drives the trigger 67 of one or more adjacent modules 5, so that the mechanism 62 also moves from the arm configuration to the tripping configuration, causing the disconnectors 53 to switch from the conducting configuration to the isolating configuration. Thus, under the action of the tripping device 10, then in succession, all the locking systems 65 of the device, and therefore all the mechanisms 62, are mechanically tripped by the bar 17 of the tripping device 10, through synchronization via the tripping bar 67A.

[0085] Preferably, when an adjacent mechanism 62, reciprocally, moves from the arm configuration to the trip configuration, the bar 67A or portion 67B drives the bar 17 via said bar 67A or portion 67B, causing the mechanism 11 to switch from the arm configuration to the trip configuration. The bar 17 thus driven by the adjacent module 5 actuates the bolt 15, which actuates the switching of the mechanism 11.

[0086] When the mechanism 11 is in the arm configuration, the spring 14 is stretched to create a store of mechanical potential energy and is held by the locking arrangement of the bolt 15 and the keeper 19. To switch the mechanism 11 to the trip configuration, the bolt 15 moves under the action of the bar 17 or the actuator 12 described below, or the keeper 19 moves under the action of the general manual control mechanism 20 described below, which allows the deck 16 to pivot. The spring 14 then pivots the deck 16, driving the bolt 15 and the keeper 19 with the deck 16. During this movement, the bolt 15 drives the bar 17. The bar 17 then moves relative to the casing 4, switching the disconnector 53 of the adjacent module to the isolation configuration.

[0087] To return the mechanism 11 from the trip configuration to the arm configuration, the mechanism 11 is actuated, for example, via the keeper 19 under the action of the general manual control mechanism 20 or under the action of the deck 16 under the action of the bar 17 against the force of the spring 14, which again extends the spring 64 for future tripping. When this return to the arm configuration is achieved by actuating the keeper 19, the bar 17 returns the mechanism 62 to the arm configuration, thereby returning the adjacent disconnector 53 to the conducting configuration. When the arm configuration is reached by the mechanism 11, the bolt 15 and the keeper will again reach the locking configuration under the action of the locking spring of the locking configuration, such that the spring 14 again prevents the mechanism 11 from switching to the trip configuration. In the arm configuration, the mechanism 11 will keep itself in the arm configuration until the bolt 15 and the keeper 19 are released again.

[0088] The general manual control mechanism 20 is a mechanical control mechanism. The control mechanism 20 is supported by the front 42 of the control room 41 so that it can be manually operated by an engineer from outside the casing 4 and during use of the device. The control mechanism 20 is operable to cause the mechanism 11 of the trip device 10 to switch between an arm configuration and a trip configuration. Thus, by operating the control mechanism 20, the engineer can control the trip device 10 to actuate all the disconnectors 53 at once and to switch the disconnectors 53 between a conduction configuration and an isolation configuration.

[0089] For example, the control mechanism 20 includes a toggle switch 21 that projects from the front 42 outside the compartment 41 so as to be manually operable by an engineer. For example, the control mechanism 20 also includes a linking rod 22 for mechanically linking the mechanism 11 to the toggle switch 21. The linking rod 22 is here attached to a keeper 19. The toggle switch 21 is movable between a closed position as shown in the figure, corresponding to a conduction configuration of the disconnector 53 and an arm configuration of the mechanism 11, and an open position, corresponding to a separation configuration of the disconnector 53 and a trip configuration of the mechanism 11.

[0090] When mechanism 11 is in the arm configuration and toggle switch 21 moves from the closed position to the open position, toggle switch 21 unlocks bolt 15 via linking rod 22 and actuates keeper 19. When spring 14 places mechanism 11 in the trip configuration, mechanism 11 drives toggle switch 21 to the open position via linking rod 22, which is itself driven by keeper 19, as it moves into the trip configuration.

[0091] When mechanism 11 is in the trip configuration and toggle switch 21 moves from the open position to the closed position, toggle switch 21 drives mechanism 11 into the arm configuration against the force of spring 14 via linking rod 22 which actuates keeper 19, thus stretching spring 14 until the arm configuration is reached.

[0092] If one or more modules 5 comprise a control mechanism 70 as described above, it is advantageously provided that the control mechanism 70 of the module 5 adjacent to the module 1 is mechanically coupled to the control mechanism 20, so that when one of the control mechanisms 20 or 70 is actuated, the other control mechanism 20 or 70 is actuated as well. For this purpose, it is preferably provided, for example, that the toggle switch 21 and the toggle switch 71 are mechanically fixed to each other. To be fixed, it is provided, for example, that the toggle switches 21 and 71 are linked to each other by a linking portion or are complementary. In succession, all the toggle switches 21 and 71 and therefore all the control mechanisms 20 and 70 of the device are fixed to each other and synchronized.

[0093] As a variant, module 5 does not comprise control mechanism 70, since control mechanism 20 of module 1 may be sufficient to actuate disconnector 53 of module 5. However, it can still be realised that module 5 comprises control mechanism 70, which makes it possible to use module 5 apart from the context of the device described here for other purposes in which its control mechanism 70 is mandatory, in particular to use module 5 without module 1.

[0094] The electric actuator 12 is located inside the control room 41. The function of the electric actuator 12 is to operate the trip device 10 via the mechanism 11 upon command by the main control circuit 30. Via the electric actuator 12, the control circuit 30 can control the trip device 10.

[0095] In practice, the electric actuator 12 comprises a fixed part 13 and a moving part 18, here a mobile finger. The electric actuator 12 here takes the form of a low power relay. The electric actuator 12 is coupled to a control circuit 30, i.e. the control circuit 30 drives the electric actuator 12. When the control circuit 30 commands the electric actuator 12 to operate the trip device, the moving part 18 moves relative to the fixed part 13 to operate and thereby release the bolt 15. The mechanism 11 then passes from the arm configuration to the trip configuration under the action of the spring 14.

[0096] The main control circuit 30 is located inside a control room 41. Preferably, the control circuit 30 comprises a processor, such as a programmable microcontroller or microprocessor. Advantageously, the processor is coupled to a computer memory or any computer-readable data storage medium containing the program, i.e. executable instructions and / or software code. Alternatively (not described in detail), the control circuit 30 may comprise a digital signal processor (DSP), or a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), or any equivalent element, or any combination of such elements.

[0097] The control circuit 30 communicates with all the control circuits 55 that each of the power supply modules 5 comprises. For this purpose, the circuit 30 is connected to each circuit 55 via a respective wired connection 59, for example by a ribbon cable. Preferably, each circuit 55 is connected to the circuit 30 by a respective wired connection 59 passing through the sides 44 and 46 of the various compartments 41 and 45 so as to connect the compartment 41 to the compartment 45 of the module 5 to be connected. The connections 59 are entirely contained inside the casing 4. As a variant, the connections 59 can be wireless or achieved using another interconnection communication scheme than the one mentioned above.

[0098] By executing the program, the control circuit 30 commands the trip device 10 to activate the switching of the disconnector 53 of the module 5 when an opening condition is met. By "opening condition" is meant one or more conditions which, when considered to be met by the control circuit 30, result in the circuit 30 commanding the trip device 10 to activate the switching of the disconnector 53 of the module 5. To determine whether such a condition is met, the circuit 30 takes into account, for example, information generated by a sensor system defined below and / or information delivered by the power supply module 5, and executes a method or algorithm to determine, in the light of this information, whether an opening condition is met and the trip device 10 has to be switched. The control circuit 30 can thus command the control circuit 55 to switch the switch 54 between the on and off states by sending a switching command to the circuit 55 in question via the connection 59. The switching command generated by the control circuit 30 is the opening condition that is met for the local control circuit 55.

[0099] The opening condition for switching the trip device 10 is not necessarily the same as for switching the switch 54. Thus, a first opening condition for the circuit 55 and a second opening condition for the circuit 30 can be provided.

[0100] Preferably, the control circuit 30 comprises a remote communication interface 39. This communication interface 39 is formed, for example, by an electronic component or a suitable communication board interconnected with the processor of the circuit 30 and / or the other aforementioned components. The communication interface 39 is arranged to communicate with a remote device 92, here a human-machine interface or a fixed or mobile terminal, so that a person or a machine can carry out operations on the installation via the device. Preferably, this communication is achieved via a wired connection between the communication interface 39 and a user's interface or terminal, via a connection terminal 31 belonging to the control module 1. For example, the terminal 31 opens to the outside of the casing 4, in particular outside the compartment 41, here at the bottom of the compartment 41. The remote device 92 is separate from the device itself. The connection terminal 31 takes the form of a data connector here.

[0101] The remote device 92 can, for example, send a command via the communication interface for the device to be placed in an open, intermediate or closed configuration. Upon receiving this command, the control circuit 30 acts accordingly on the disconnector 53 via the trip device 10 and / or on the switch 54 via the circuit 55 of the power supply module 5, optionally provided that other conditions are fulfilled. When the remote device 92 commands the circuit 30 via the communication interface 39 to place the disconnector 53 in the isolated configuration, it is taken into account by the circuit 30 whether the open condition is fulfilled.

[0102] The program executed by the local circuit 55 makes it possible to detect electrical faults such as current overloads, short circuits, differential currents, the presence of a series arc (or differential arc) at the electrodes to be protected, but also overvoltages or undervoltages. For this purpose, advantageously, the circuit 55 comprises the aforementioned sensor system, arranged in the power supply compartment 45 of the same power supply module 5. In this example, the sensor system comprises a sensor 84, which is a current sensor, measuring the current flowing between the terminals 51 and 52, in particular between the disconnector 53 and the switch 54. However, it can be realised that the sensor system comprises more sensors for detecting electrical faults, such as other current sensors, voltage sensors, temperature sensors, etc., arranged in the power supply compartment 45 of the same module 5. It can also be realised that the local circuit 55 uses information output by the sensor systems of other power supply modules 5, information output by the control modules 1 and / or sensors comprised by the power supply 90 and / or the load 91, to detect electrical faults. It can also be realized that a program executed by the main circuit 30 enables electrical faults such as those mentioned above to be detected, using information delivered by one or more circuits 55, the information itself being based on information output by a sensor system integrated within the module 5.

[0103] Preferably, when one of the circuits 55 detects an electrical fault, it communicates this information to the circuit 30, which gives a disconnect command to all circuits 55, so that all switches 54 are placed in the OFF state. After the switches 54 are placed in the OFF state, the circuit 30 controls the trip device 10 to place the disconnector 53 in the isolation configuration. Alternatively, it can be realized that the circuit 55 that detects an electrical fault directly considers that the opening condition is met and directly commands the switches 54 to switch to the OFF state, as well as communicates to the control circuit 30 to give a command to disconnect the other circuits 55.

[0104] When the electrical fault disappears, and optionally when commanded to do so by a user via the communication interface, the circuit 30 commands the trip device 10 to cause the disconnector 53 to switch to the conducting configuration, and then commands all circuits 55 to place the switch 54 in the ON state. Alternatively, the disconnector 53 can be manually switched to the conducting configuration by a user using the control mechanism 20 and / or 70 before the circuit 30 commands the circuit 55 to place the switch 54 in the ON state. With regard to the disconnector 53, it can optionally be realized that a person must always use the manual control mechanism 20 and / or 70 to cause the disconnector 53 to switch to the conducting configuration, which makes it possible to provide a less powerful and / or self-powered electric actuator 12.

[0105] Advantageously, the program executed by the local circuit 55 allows an operation on the control mechanism 70 to be detected. For this purpose, advantageously, the sensor system comprises a control sensor 85 arranged in the power supply chamber 45 of the same power supply module 5. The control sensor 85 is designed to detect the switching of the control mechanism 70 between the closed and open positions. To do this, the sensor 85 detects the movement of a part of the mechanism, for example the deck 66 or the locking system 65. For example, the sensor 85 is a mechanical sensor, such as a push button, or a remote sensor, such as an optical or magnetic sensor. It is realized that the control sensor 85 allows the control sensor 85 to detect that the control mechanism 70 has been actuated before the disconnector 53 has actually been switched to the isolated configuration, and even before the contacts 60 and 61 have been separated.

[0106] Preferably, when one of the circuits 55 detects an action on the control mechanism 70, it communicates this information to the circuit 30, which gives an interruption command to all circuits 55, so that all switches 54 are placed in the OFF state before the command 70 switches the disconnector 53 to the isolated configuration. This prevents the formation of an electric arc between the contacts 60 and 61 when the installation is under load. After the switch 54 is placed in the OFF state, the circuit 30 controls the trip device 10 to place the disconnector 53 in the isolated configuration. Alternatively, it can be realized that the circuit 55 that detects an action on the control mechanism 70 directly considers that the opening condition is met and directly commands the switch 54 to switch to the OFF state, as well as communicates to the control circuit 30 to give a command to interrupt the other circuits 55.

[0107] Advantageously, the program executed by the main circuit 30 allows actions on the control mechanism 20 to be detected. For this purpose, advantageously, the sensor system comprises a control sensor 25 arranged in the power supply chamber 45 of the same power supply module 5. The control sensor 85 is designed to detect the switching of the control mechanism 70 between the closed and open positions. To do this, the sensor 85 detects the movement of a part of the mechanism, for example the deck 16 or the bolt 15. For example, the sensor 25 is a mechanical sensor, such as a push button, or a remote sensor, such as an optical or magnetic sensor.

[0108] Preferably, when circuit 30 detects an action on control mechanism 20, circuit 30 provides an interrupt command to all circuits 55 so that all switches 54 are placed in the OFF state before command 20 switches disconnector 53 to the isolated configuration via action on trip device 10. This prevents the formation of an electrical arc between contacts 60 and 61 when the installation is under load. Because switch 54 is placed in the OFF state very quickly, separation of contacts 60 and 61 under the mechanical action of trip device 10 occurs later.

[0109] Preferably, the control module 1 comprises a backup power component 34 configured to power the main control circuit 30 for operation of the main control circuit 30. In this regard, the component 34 delivers backup power to the control circuit 30 by being electrically connected to the circuit 30. This power supply enables not only the circuit 30 but also the trip device 10 to operate. Preferably, the trip device 10 is powered by the backup power source via the circuit 30 or directly by the component 34. Preferably, the backup component 34 is located entirely within the compartment 41.

[0110] Preferably, each local control circuit 55 is powered by a standby power supply via the main control circuit 30. Advantageously, it is provided that each local control circuit 55 powers the switches 54 of the same module 5 with the standby power supply for the operation of the switches 54.

[0111] In order for the circuit 30 to power the circuit 55, for example, a wire is provided to connect each control circuit 55 to the circuit 30 for the transmission of this reserve power. Preferably, a specific conductor in the wired connection 59 is provided to ensure the supply of this reserve power to the circuit 55. When such a connection 59 is a ribbon cable, connecting the circuit 55 to the circuit 30 not only makes it possible to place the circuits 55 and 30 in communication, but also allows the circuit 55 to be supplied with reserve power by the circuit 30. As a variant, each circuit 55 is connected in a similar manner to the component 34, thereby being supplied with power directly by the component 34.

[0112] Whatever solution is adopted, a single standby power supply is provided in the control module 1 and distributed to the circuits 30 and 55, thereby reducing the number of connections to the standby power supply for the operation of the circuit 55. This also makes it possible to easily modify the number of such modules 5, since the disconnection of one of the power supply modules 5 installed in the device leaves the other modules 5 connected by their own wired connections 59.

[0113] 9, to deliver the standby power supply, the components 34 are advantageously connected to the electrodes of the installation so that power is obtained from the power supply 90. The components 34 are connected to the electrodes, for example in two separate power supply modules 5. This arrangement has the advantage that the standby power supply can be said to be "self-powered", i.e. it does not require any power source other than that provided by the power supply 90 itself.

[0114] In this case, for example, the component 34 advantageously comprises two wired connections 35 connecting the component 34 to the two respective electrodes. The first wired connection 35 electrically connects the component 34 to the first module 5, for example by being connected between the disconnector 53 and the static switch 54. The second wired connection 35 electrically connects the component 34 to the second module 5, for example by being connected between the disconnector 53 and the static switch 54.

[0115] Alternatively, and advantageously, the component 34 comprises two wired connections 36 connecting the component 34 to the two respective electrodes, but downstream of the static switch 54 (shown in FIG. 9).

[0116] When the wired connections 36 are provided, the first wired connection 36 is connected, for example, between the static switch 54 and the terminal 52, thereby electrically connecting the component 34 to the first module 5, and the second wired connection 36 is connected, for example, between the static switch 54 and the terminal 52, thereby electrically connecting the component 34 to the second module 5.

[0117] In Fig. 9, for simplicity, only a single power supply module 5 is shown, and therefore connections 35 and 36 are shown to a single module 5. In practice, these connections 35 and 36 would in fact be connected to two separate modules 5 as explained above. In practice, it will be realised that the device will comprise either connection 35 or connection 36, depending on the characteristics of the installation and the electrical disturbances likely to occur.

[0118] As a variant, it is realised that the device comprises both the connection 35 and the connection 36, so that the device is able to handle any situation.

[0119] Also in this case, the component 34 advantageously comprises means for electrically converting the voltage obtained from the power source 90 into a voltage suitable for supplying the circuits 30 and 55, which means for example including a transformer, a rectifier, an inverter and / or any suitable protection and conversion components. For example, the backup power source delivered by the component 34 is a DC voltage of less than 100V, for example 24 or 48V. The component 34 can also incorporate means for storing power, such as a battery pack, so as to be able to ensure that the circuits 30 and 55 continue to be supplied with backup power even when the power source 90 is disconnected. In the case of a self-powered power source, it is particularly advantageous for the electric actuator 12 to consist of a low-power relay.

[0120] Alternatively or additionally, the component 34 can be electrically connected to a specific external backup power source separate from the power source 90. For example, the component 34 is electrically connected via the connection terminal 31 or via another external terminal. In this case it can also be realized that the component 34 comprises means for converting and / or storing the backup power in case the backup power source is disconnected. An external backup power source is particularly suitable in cases where the electric actuator requires a relatively high power to operate. For example, this makes it possible to realize that the electric actuator is a linear electric actuator, with a coiled stator and a mobile core, which is actuated in translation by the stator, the mobile core being housed in the stator and actuating the mechanism 11, in particular the bolt 15. This type of electric actuator makes it possible to facilitate remote control of the device, since it can be powerful enough to switch the mechanism 11 from the trip configuration to the arm configuration, which is not always possible with low-power relays.

[0121] Preferably, the power supply module 5 does not incorporate an individual backup power supply, which avoids hardware redundancy with the backup power provided within the module 1. However, as a variant, it may nevertheless be realized that the module 5 incorporates a backup power supply component that directly powers the circuit 55, independent of the aforementioned component 34. In this case, for example, the backup power supply component has a structure and operation similar to the aforementioned component 34, except that it powers the circuit 55 and is located within the power supply room 45.

[0122] Preferably, the power supply module 5 does not incorporate an electric actuator for actuating the disconnector 53, which avoids redundancy with the trip device 10 of the module 1. Preferably, it is realized that it is possible to actuate the disconnector 53 only by actuating the control mechanism 70 or the control mechanism 20 or when the circuit 30 actuates the disconnector 53 via the trip device 10.

[0123] Preferably, the control module 1 does not incorporate power terminals, power switches or power disconnectors, as these are provided exclusively within the power supply module 5. This avoids redundancies.

[0124] One advantage of having the open conditions stored within the circuitry 30 and / or 55 is that it allows the circuitry 30 and / or 55 of the device to be reprogrammed so that the device can be specifically modified to change these conditions. This change in the open conditions can be made during manufacturing or throughout the life of the device or module 1 or 5 in question. It is therefore possible to adapt the open conditions to new standards, new installations, or changes to the device, particularly with regard to the number of power modules 5 installed.

[0125] Any feature described above with respect to one embodiment or variant may be applied to the other embodiments and variants, provided that this is technically possible.

Claims

1. A control module (1) configured to be integrated into a modular electrical protection device which also includes at least one power supply module (5), A control room (41) intended to form part of the casing (4) belonging to the modular electrical protection device, A tripping device (10) that can mechanically operate the switching of a mechanical disconnector (53) belonging to at least one power module (5) from a conduction configuration to a disconnection configuration, Main control circuit (30), Located inside the control room (41), It is configured to communicate with a local control circuit (55) belonging to at least one power module (5), and the local control circuit (55) is configured to command a static switch (54) belonging to at least one power module (5) to be in the off state. A control module (1) comprising a main control circuit (30) configured to instruct the tripping device (10) to activate the switching of the mechanical disconnector (53) when the open condition is met.

2. The aforementioned tripping device (10) A release mechanism (11) is located within the control room (41) and is configured to switch between an arm configuration and a release configuration, The control module (1) according to claim 1, comprising a tripping bar (17) protruding from the control room (41) into the at least one power module (5), wherein the tripping bar (17) moves when the tripping mechanism (11) transitions from the arm configuration to the tripping configuration, and as a result, the tripping bar mechanically operates the switching of the mechanical disconnector (53) of the power module (5) from the conduction configuration to the separation configuration.

3. The control module (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tripping device (10) comprises a general manual control mechanism (20), the general manual control mechanism (20) is supported by the control room (41), and is operable from outside the control room (41) to command the tripping device (10) to switch the disconnector (53) of the at least one power module (5) from the conduction configuration to the isolation configuration.

4. The control module (1) according to claim 1, wherein the tripping device (10) comprises an electric actuator (12) located inside the control room (41) and controlled by the main control circuit (30), and the main control circuit (30) controls the tripping device (10) by controlling the electric actuator (12).

5. A power supply module (5) configured to be integrated into a modular electrical protection device which also includes a control module (1), A power chamber (45) intended to form part of the casing (4) belonging to the modular electrical protection device, An input terminal (51) that can be connected to a power supply (90), An output terminal (52) that can be connected to a load (91) intended to be powered by the power supply (90) via at least one power supply module (5), A mechanical disconnector (53) comprising separable contacts (60, 61) located inside the power supply chamber (45) through which the terminals (51, 52) are electrically connected, wherein the mechanical disconnector (53) is configured to switch between a conduction configuration in which the separable contacts (60, 61) make mutual contact to conduct current between the input terminal (51) and the output terminal (52), and a separation configuration in which the separable contacts (60, 61) are separated by an air gap (63) to electrically separate the output terminal (52) from the input terminal (51), and the switching from the conduction configuration to the separation configuration can be mechanically operated by a tripping device (10) belonging to the control module (1), A stationary switch (54) is configured to transition between an ON state for conducting current between the input terminal (51) and the output terminal (52) and an OFF state for electrically isolating the output terminal (52) from the input terminal (51), through which terminals (51, 52) are electrically connected and connected in series with the mechanical disconnector (53), When the open condition is met, the local control circuit (55) is configured to command the stationary switch (54) to the off state and communicate with the main control circuit (30) which belongs to the control module (1) and controls the tripping device (10). A power supply module (5) is provided.

6. The power module (5) according to claim 5, wherein the mechanical disconnector (53) is supported by the power chamber (45), and includes a local manual control mechanism (70) that can be operated from outside the power chamber (45) to switch the mechanical disconnector (53) between the conduction configuration and the isolation configuration.

7. In order to determine whether the above open condition is met, the local control circuit (55) A current sensor for measuring the current flowing between the terminals (51, 52), and / or A control sensor (85) for detecting the operation of the local manual control mechanism (70) The power supply module (5) according to claim 6, comprising a sensor system (84, 85) equipped with the above.

8. Casing (4) and At least one power supply module (5) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the power supply chamber (45) forms part of the casing (4), A modular electrical protection device comprising a control module (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the control chamber (41) forms part of the casing (4), the tripping device (10) is capable of mechanically operating the switching of the mechanical disconnector (53) of the at least one power module (5) from the conduction configuration to the isolation configuration, and the main control circuit (30) communicates with the local control circuit (55) of the at least one power module (5).

9. The electrical protection device according to claim 8, wherein the main control circuit (30) includes a remote communication interface (39) for communicating with a remote device (92) separate from the modular electrical protection device.

10. The main control circuit (30) receives power from the backup power supply, The electrical protection device according to claim 8, wherein the local control circuit (55) of at least one power supply module (5) is electrically connected to the control module (1), and as a result, the local control circuit (55) receives power from the backup power supply via the control module (1).

11. The electrical protection device according to claim 10, wherein the control module (1) comprises a backup power supply component (34) located in the control room (41) and connected to the power supply (90), and the backup power supply component (34) delivers backup power to the main control circuit (30) via a conversion of the power supply (90).

12. The electrical protection device according to claim 11, wherein the auxiliary power supply component (34) is connected to the power supply (90) by being electrically connected to two power supply modules (5) of the device using wired connections (35; 36), and each wired connection (35; 36) is connected to the power supply module (5) between the input terminal (51) and the output terminal (52).

Images