Power switching system, distribution board, and power supply system

Abstract

To enable switching between grid power and distributed power sources using a method different from conventional methods. [Solution] The power switching system 2a comprises a switching unit 204, a switching control unit 203, and a control unit 202. The control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 according to the state of at least the grid power supply among the grid power supply and distributed power supplies. The switching unit 204 switches the connection state between a first connection state in which the grid power supply and the load are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power supply and the load are electrically connected. The switching control unit 203 has a single actuator 210 and a switching control mechanism 211. The switching control mechanism 211 controls the switching of the connection state by the switching unit 204 using the driving force of the actuator 210. The actuator 210 generates driving force in both directions: a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a power switching system, a distribution board, and a power supply system, and more particularly to a power switching system, a distribution board, and a power supply system that switch a power source for supplying power to a load between at least a grid power source and a distributed power source.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a power source switching switch (power switching system) that switches between a commercial power source (grid power source) and other power sources (distributed power sources) is known (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0003] The power source switching switch of Patent Document 1 includes two solenoids (actuators), and uses the two solenoids to rotate a crossbar left and right to bring a contact bar into contact with one of two fixed contacts.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] By the way, a different method from the conventional one is required for switching between the grid power source and the distributed power source.

[0006] In view of the above reasons, the present disclosure is made, and an object thereof is to provide a power switching system, a distribution board, and a power supply system that can switch between a grid power source and a distributed power source by a method different from the conventional one.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] A power switching system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a switching unit, a switching control unit, and a control unit. The switching unit switches the power supply to a load between at least a grid power supply and a distributed power supply. The switching control unit controls the switching of the power supply by the switching unit. The control unit controls the switching control unit according to the state of at least the grid power supply among the grid power supply and the distributed power supply. The switching unit switches the connection state between a first connection state in which at least the grid power supply and the load are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power supply and the load are electrically connected. The switching control unit comprises a single actuator and a switching control mechanism. The switching control mechanism controls the switching of the connection state by the switching unit using the driving force of the actuator. The actuator generates the driving force in both directions: a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction.

[0008] A distribution board according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises the above-mentioned power switching system and a cabinet housing the power switching system.

[0009] A power supply system according to one aspect of this disclosure comprises the above-described power switching system and the distributed power source. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to this disclosure, there is an advantage in that it is possible to switch between grid power and distributed power sources using a method different from conventional methods. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a distribution board and power supply system according to one embodiment. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is a front view of the same distribution board. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the switch in the distribution panel shown above. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the main components of the switch shown above. [Figure 5] Figure 5 is another perspective view showing the main components of the same switch. [Figure 6] Figure 6 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the solenoid in the same switch. [Figure 7] Figure 7 is a side view of the main components of the above-mentioned switch, including a partial cross-section when the distributed power supply and load are connected. [Figure 8] Figure 8 is a side view of the main components of the above-mentioned switch, including a partial cross-section when the grid power supply and the load are connected. [Figure 9] Figure 9 is a side view of the main components of the switch according to Modified Example 1, including a partial cross-section when the distributed power supply and load are connected. [Figure 10] Figure 10 is a side view of the main components of the switch according to Modification 1, including a partial cross-section when the grid power supply and the load are connected. [Figure 11] Figure 11 is a side view including a partial cross-section of the main components of a switch according to modified example 2. [Figure 12] Figure 12 is a side view of the main components of the switch according to Modification Example 3. [Figure 13] Figure 13 is a side view illustrating the case where the third terminal is in the neutral position in the switch according to Modification 4. [Figure 14] Figure 14 is a side view illustrating the case in the switch according to Modification 5 where the third terminal is connected to another distributed power supply. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] The embodiments and modifications described below are merely examples of the present disclosure, and the present disclosure is not limited to these embodiments and modifications. Various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as they do not depart from the technical concept of the present disclosure.

[0013] (Embodiment) Hereinafter, the power switching system 2a, the distribution board 100, and the power supply system 200 according to this embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 8.

[0014] (1) Overview As shown in FIG. 1, the power supply system 200 according to the embodiment is a system that supplies power supplied from the commercial power system CS or the distributed power source DS to a plurality of loads L1 provided in the facility. The facility is, for example, a residential facility such as a single-family house or each household of an apartment house, or a non-residential facility such as a factory, a store, an office building, a commercial building, a hospital, or a school. In this embodiment, as an example, the facility is a single-family house. As shown in FIG. 1, the power supply system 200 includes a distribution board 100, a commercial power system CS, a distributed power source DS, and a plurality of loads L1. In the following description, the commercial power system CS is also referred to as the system power source CS.

[0015] The distribution board 100 is attached to a building material such as a wall, for example. As shown in FIG. 1, the distribution board 100 includes a main breaker 1, a switch 2, a plurality (three in the illustrated example) of conductive bars 3, a plurality (fourteen in the illustrated example) of branch breakers 4, an interconnection breaker 5, and a cabinet C1. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the cabinet C1 houses the main breaker 1, the switch 2 as the power switching system 2a, the plurality of conductive bars 3, the plurality of branch breakers 4, and the interconnection breaker 5. The switch 2 as the power switching system 2a is a device that switches the power supplied to a plurality of loads L1 provided in the facility between the power supplied from the commercial power system CS and the power supplied from the distributed power source DS. As shown in FIG. 3, the switch 2 as the power switching system 2a includes a switching unit 204, a switching control unit 203, and a control unit 202. The switching unit 204 switches the power source that supplies power to the load L1 at least between the commercial power system (system power source) CS and the distributed power source DS. The switching control unit 203 (drive unit) controls (drives) the switching of the power source by the switching unit 204. The control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 according to the state of at least the system power source CS among the system power source CS and the distributed power source DS. The switching unit 204 switches the connection state between at least a first connection state in which the system power source CS and the load L1 are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power source DS and the load L1 are electrically connected. The switching control unit 203 has a single actuator 210 (see FIGS. 3 and 6 to 8) and a switching control mechanism 211. The switching control mechanism 211 controls the switching of the connection state by the switching unit 204 using the driving force of the actuator 210. As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the actuator 210 generates a driving force in a bidirectional manner between a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 opposite to the first direction D1.

[0016] According to this configuration, the switching between the system power source CS and the distributed power source DS is performed by the bidirectional driving force between the first direction D1 and the second direction D2 generated by a single actuator 210 (that is, an actuator of one element). Therefore, the switching between the system power source CS and the distributed power source DS can be performed by a method different from the conventional method.

[0017] (2) Composition Next, the details of the switch 2, distribution board 100, and power supply system 200 as a power switching system 2a according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Figures 1 to 8. In the following description, unless otherwise specified, the longitudinal direction of the cabinet C1 is defined as the left-right direction, the short direction (width direction) of the cabinet C1 is defined as the up-down direction, and the thickness direction (depth direction) of the cabinet C1 is defined as the front-back direction. However, these directions are not intended to limit the direction in which the distribution board 100 is used. Also, the arrows indicating "up," "down," "left," and "right" in Figure 2 are for illustrative purposes only and do not represent any actual objects.

[0018] The power supply system 200 according to the embodiment is a grid connection system that can switch the power supply system to the load L1 between a commercial power grid CS and a distributed power source DS. As shown in Figure 1, the power supply system 200 according to the embodiment comprises a distribution board 100, a commercial power grid CS, a distributed power source DS, and a plurality of loads L1.

[0019] (2.1) Distribution board The distribution board 100 is, for example, a residential distribution board (a so-called residential board) used in a single-phase three-wire power distribution system. However, the distribution board 100 is not limited to a residential board; it may also be a cabinet-type distribution board used in a three-phase three-wire or three-phase four-wire power distribution system.

[0020] The distribution board 100 includes a cabinet C1 for housing internal equipment (see Figures 1 and 2). The cabinet C1 is a rectangular box with an open front and is attached to a building material such as a wall. In Figures 1 and 2, the illustration of covers and the like that which can be opened and closed or attached to the opening on the front of the cabinet C1 is omitted.

[0021] The distribution board 100 includes, as internal equipment housed in the cabinet C1, a main circuit breaker (main switch) 1, a switch 2, a plurality of (three in the illustrated example) conductive bars 3, a plurality of (fourteen in the illustrated example) branch circuit breakers 4, and a grid-connecting circuit breaker 5. These internal equipment are attached to the cabinet C1 either directly or indirectly via mounting parts. In other words, the distribution board 100 according to this embodiment includes a power switching system 2a (switch 2) and a cabinet C1 that houses the power switching system 2a (switch 2). The power supply system 200 according to this embodiment also includes a power switching system 2a (switch 2) and a distributed power supply DS.

[0022] (2.1.1) Main circuit breaker The main circuit breaker 1 is located inside cabinet C1, slightly to the left of the center in the left-right direction. Three primary terminals 11 (see Figure 2) are provided at the upper end of the case 10 of the main circuit breaker 1, and three secondary terminals 12 (see Figure 2) are provided at the right end of the case 10 of the main circuit breaker 1. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three primary terminals 11, they may be referred to as primary terminals 11a, 11b, and 11c. Similarly, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three secondary terminals 12, they may be referred to as secondary terminals 12a, 12b, and 12c.

[0023] The main circuit breaker 1 has contacts within the case 10 that electrically connect and disconnect between the primary terminal 11 and the secondary terminal 12. The main circuit breaker 1 also has an operating lever 13 on the front of the case 10 for turning the contacts on or off. The main circuit breaker 1 has a function to detect overcurrent abnormalities, such as short-circuit current or overload current, which flow through the contacts, and when an overcurrent abnormality is detected, it opens the contacts. That is, when the main circuit breaker 1 detects an overcurrent abnormality, it cuts off the power supply to the secondary circuit of the main circuit breaker 1. The main circuit breaker 1 may also have a limiter function that opens the contacts when a current exceeding a predetermined limit value flows. Furthermore, the main circuit breaker 1 may also have a function that opens the contacts when it detects leakage current, neutral wire phase loss, etc.

[0024] The primary terminal 11 is connected to a single-phase three-wire power line W1 drawn from the commercial power grid CS. More specifically, the power line for the first voltage pole (L1 phase) of power line W1 is connected to the primary terminal 11a. The power line for the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of power line W1 is connected to the primary terminal 11b. The power line for the neutral pole (N phase) of power line W1 is connected to the primary terminal 11c. In other words, commercial power is supplied to the primary terminal 11.

[0025] The primary terminal 11a and the secondary terminal 12a are electrically connected and disconnected via the contacts of the main circuit breaker 1. Similarly, the primary terminal 11b and the secondary terminal 12b are electrically connected and disconnected via the contacts of the main circuit breaker 1. Furthermore, the primary terminal 11c and the secondary terminal 12c are electrically connected and disconnected via the contacts of the main circuit breaker 1. The first input terminal 21 of the switch 2 is connected to the secondary terminal 12.

[0026] (2.1.2) Switch The switch 2, as part of the power switching system 2a, is a device that switches the power supplied to multiple loads L1 installed within the facility between power supplied from the commercial power grid CS and power supplied from a distributed power source DS.

[0027] Switch 2 is located inside cabinet C1, to the right of the main circuit breaker 1. Three first input terminals 21 (see Figure 2) are provided at the left end of the case 20 of switch 2, and three output terminals 22 (see Figure 2) are provided at the right end of the case 20 of switch 2. In addition, three second input terminals 23 (see Figure 2) are provided at the top end of the case 20 of switch 2. Switch 2 has a c-contact structure that electrically connects either the first input terminals 21 or the second input terminals 23 to the output terminals 22. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three first input terminals 21, they may be referred to as first input terminals 21a, 21b, and 21c. Similarly, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three output terminals 22, they may be referred to as output terminals 22a, 22b, and 22c. Similarly, if it is necessary to distinguish between the three second input terminals 23, they may be referred to as second input terminals 23a, 23b, and 23c, respectively.

[0028] The first input terminal 21 is connected to the secondary terminal 12 of the main circuit breaker 1. More specifically, the first input terminal 21a is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12a of the main circuit breaker 1. The first input terminal 21b is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12b of the main circuit breaker 1. The first input terminal 21c is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12c of the main circuit breaker 1.

[0029] A conductive bar 3 is connected to output terminal 22. More specifically, conductive bar 3a (see Figures 1 and 2) of the three conductive bars 3 described later is connected to output terminal 22a. Conductive bar 3b (see Figures 1 and 2) of the three conductive bars 3 is connected to output terminal 22b. Conductive bar 3c (see Figures 1 and 2) of the three conductive bars 3 is connected to output terminal 22c.

[0030] The independent output terminal T2 of the distributed power supply DS is electrically connected to the second input terminal 23 via the wire W3. More specifically, the first voltage pole (L1 phase) power line of the wire W3 is connected to the second input terminal 23a. The second input terminal 23b is connected to the second voltage pole (L2 phase) power line of the wire W3. The neutral pole (N phase) power line of the wire W3 is connected to the second input terminal 23c.

[0031] In other words, the switch 2 selectively supplies either commercial power supplied from the commercial power grid CS, or independent power output from the independent output terminal T2 of the distributed power source DS, to the conductive bar 3 via the output terminal 22. The independent power is supplied using a single-phase three-wire distribution system.

[0032] As shown in Figure 3, the switch 2 (power switching system 2a) has a detection unit 201, a control unit 202, a switching control unit 203, and a switching unit 204. The switch 2 (power switching system 2a) operates using power from the grid power supply CS or the distributed power supply DS as its operating power source.

[0033] Switcher 2 has, for example, a computer system having one or more processors and memory. The computer system functions as a control unit 202 by having the processor execute a program stored in memory. The program executed by the processor is, in this case, pre-recorded in the computer system's memory, but it may also be provided by being recorded on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card, or by being provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet.

[0034] The detection unit 201 detects the power status from at least the grid power supply CS, which is one of the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. In this embodiment, the detection unit 201 detects the status of both the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. Specifically, the detection unit 201 detects the voltage applied by each of the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS.

[0035] The detection unit 201 detects the voltage (first voltage) applied to the contact electrically connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of the electric wire W1, for example. Furthermore, the detection unit 201 detects the voltage (second voltage) applied to the contact electrically connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of the electric wire W3, for example.

[0036] The control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 according to the power supply status from at least the grid power supply CS, which is one of the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. In this embodiment, the control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 according to the status of both the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. Specifically, the control unit 202 outputs current to a single actuator 210 of the switching control unit 203 according to the status of both the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS.

[0037] The control unit 202 determines that the power supply status from the grid power source CS is powered (first state) if the first voltage detected by the detection unit 201 is greater than a first predetermined value. The control unit 202 determines that the power supply status from the grid power source CS is not powered (second state) if the first voltage detected by the detection unit 201 is less than or equal to the first predetermined value. The control unit 202 determines that the power supply status from the distributed power source DS is powered (third state) if the second voltage detected by the detection unit 201 is greater than a second predetermined value. The control unit 202 determines that the power supply status from the distributed power source DS is not powered (fourth state) if the second voltage detected by the detection unit 201 is less than or equal to the second predetermined value.

[0038] When the load L1 is electrically connected to the grid power supply CS, the control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 to switch the connection destination of the load L1 from the grid power supply CS to the distributed power supply DS when the power supply state from the grid power supply CS switches from the first state to the second state. Also, when the load L1 is electrically connected to the distributed power supply DS, the control unit 202 controls the switching control unit 203 to switch the connection destination of the load L1 from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS when the power supply state from the grid power supply CS switches from the second state to the first state.

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit 202 may control the switching control unit 203 to switch the connection destination of load L1 from the grid power supply CS to the distributed power supply DS when the power supply state from the grid power supply CS switches from the first state to the second state, provided that load L1 is electrically connected to the grid power supply CS and the power supply state from the distributed power supply DS is in the third state. In addition, the control unit 202 may control the switching control unit 203 to switch the connection destination of load L1 from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS when the power supply state from the grid power supply CS switches from the second state to the first state, provided that load L1 is electrically connected to the distributed power supply DS and the power supply state from the distributed power supply DS is in the third or fourth state.

[0040] Furthermore, the control unit 202 may control the switching control unit 203 to switch the connection destination of the load L1 from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS when the power supply state from the distributed power supply DS switches from the third state to the fourth state, provided that the load L1 is electrically connected to the distributed power supply DS and the power supply state from the grid power supply CS is in the first state.

[0041] The switching control unit 203 controls the switching of the power supply by the switching unit 204. The switching control unit 203 includes a single actuator 210 and a switching control mechanism 211. The switching control mechanism 211 uses the driving force of the single actuator 210 to control the switching of the connection state by the switching unit 204.

[0042] [Actuator Configuration] A single actuator 210 generates driving force in both directions: a first direction D1 (see Figures 4 and 7) and a second direction D2 (see Figures 4 and 8) opposite to the first direction D1. The actuator 210 generates driving force using power from a grid power supply CS or a distributed power supply DS as its operating power source. In other words, the actuator 210 generates driving force in both directions by being energized from a grid power supply CS or a distributed power supply DS.

[0043] In this embodiment, the single actuator 210 includes a single solenoid A1 (see Figures 6-8) that is driven by instantaneous energization. Here, as an example, solenoid A1 is a self-holding solenoid. In particular, as shown in Figure 6, solenoid A1 is a two-way holding type (two-coil type) solenoid that moves and holds the shaft 2102 in two directions (first direction D1, second direction D2) by energizing each coil (210A, 210B). The ends of the coils (210A, 210B) are electrically connected to the control unit 202, and the control unit 202 energizes each coil.

[0044] Specifically, solenoid A1 includes a pair of coils 210A and 210B, a permanent magnet 2101, a shaft 2102, a pair of bases 2103 and 2104, a frame 2105, and a plunger 2106.

[0045] The frame 2105 is made of, for example, metal. The frame 2105 is formed in a long cylindrical shape along a first direction D1 and houses a pair of coils 210A, 210B, a permanent magnet 2101, a shaft 2102, a pair of bases 2103, 2104, and a plunger 2106. The frame 2105 has holes at a first end on the first direction D1 side and a second end on the second direction D2 side for leading out both ends of the shaft 2102, respectively. The shaft 2102 is housed such that both ends protrude from the holes at the first and second ends of the frame 2105, respectively.

[0046] The permanent magnet 2101 is, for example, donut-shaped. The permanent magnet 2101 is housed in a frame 2105 such that the shaft 2102 and plunger 2106 pass through the central hole of the permanent magnet 2101. The permanent magnet 2101 is positioned approximately in the center of the frame 2105 in a first direction D1. In particular, the permanent magnet 2101 is positioned between a pair of coils 210A and 210B in the first direction D1. In the illustrated example, the permanent magnet 2101 is magnetized such that the south pole is on the inside (towards the center of the donut) and the north pole is on the outside.

[0047] Coil 210A is positioned on the second direction D2 side of permanent magnet 2101. Coil 210A is housed within frame 2105 while held in a coil bobbin. Shaft 2102 and plunger 2106 are positioned to pass through the central hole of coil 210A.

[0048] Coil 210B is positioned on the first direction D1 side of permanent magnet 2101. Coil 210B is housed within frame 2105 while held in a coil bobbin. Shaft 2102 and plunger 2106 are positioned to pass through the central hole of coil 210B.

[0049] The shaft 2102 is made of metal, for example. The shaft 2102 has a long axis parallel to the first direction D1. The plunger 2106 is made of metal, for example. The plunger 2106 is a cylindrical part that is elongated in the first direction D1. The plunger 2106 has a hole through which the shaft 2102 is inserted. The shaft 2102 is fixed to the plunger 2106 while inserted through the hole in the plunger 2106.

[0050] The shaft 2102 can move in a straight line along the first direction D1 or the second direction D2 in conjunction with the plunger 2106, depending on the energization of each coil (210A, 210B). However, bases 2103 and 2104 are positioned on both sides of the plunger 2106 in the first direction D1, respectively, restricting further movement of the plunger 2106. In other words, the plunger 2106 can move between bases 2103 and 2104. In the example in Figure 6, the plunger 2106 is located closer to the second direction D2 side than the permanent magnet 2101, and is in contact with base 2103, restricting further movement, so there is a gap between the plunger 2106 and base 2104.

[0051] In the following, the position where the plunger 2106 (and shaft 2102) is closer to the first direction D1 than the permanent magnet 2101 may be referred to as the "first position." When the plunger 2106 is in the first position, it is in contact with or close to the base 2104. Figure 8 shows the state when the plunger 2106 is in the first position.

[0052] Furthermore, in the following, the position where the plunger 2106 (and shaft 2102) is closer to the second direction D2 than the permanent magnet 2101 may be referred to as the "second position." When the plunger 2106 is in the second position, it is in contact with or close to the base 2103. Figures 6 and 7 show the state when the plunger 2106 is in the second position.

[0053] Bases 2103 and 2104 are made of, for example, metal. Each of bases 2103 and 2104 is a cylindrical portion that is elongated in the first direction D1. Each of bases 2103 and 2104 has a hole through which the shaft 2102 is inserted. Bases 2103 and 2104 are held by the frame 2105 in such a manner that they are partially exposed from the hole at the first end on the first direction D1 side and the hole at the second end on the second direction D2 side, respectively.

[0054] [Solenoid operation] The operation of solenoid A1 will be described below. For example, let's assume that plunger 2106 (and shaft 2102) is in the second position, as shown in Figures 6 and 7.

[0055] When the plunger 2106 is in the second position, even if neither coil 210A nor 210B is energized, the permanent magnet 2101's holding force (magnetic force: see arrow Z1 in Figure 6) holds the plunger 2106 in the second position. As shown in Figure 6, when the plunger 2106 is in the second position, closer to the second direction D2, energizing the coil 210B on the opposite side (first direction D1) generates a magnetic field in coil 210B. As a result, an attractive force (magnetic force: see arrow Z2 in Figure 6) is generated that pulls the plunger 2106 toward the first direction D1. This attractive force cancels out the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101 (arrow Z1), releasing the plunger 2106, and the plunger 2106 (and shaft 2102) move toward the first direction D1. In other words, a current (drive current) is passed through coil 210B so that it generates a magnetic field that cancels the holding force of arrow Z1. Subsequently, plunger 2106 is restricted from further movement by hitting base 2104. As a result, plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 reach a first position that is closer to the first direction D1 than permanent magnet 2101.

[0056] In this way, the movement of the plunger 2106 from the second position to the first position is synchronized with the movement of the shaft 2102, thereby generating a driving force in the first direction D1 from the solenoid A1.

[0057] The energization of coil 210B to move plunger 2106 from the second position to the first position is instantaneous, and the attractive force of coil 210B disappears immediately. However, even when coil 210B is not energized, plunger 2106 is held in the first position by the holding force (magnetic force) of the permanent magnet 2101. When moving plunger 2106 from the second position to the first position, instantaneous energization may be performed not only on coil 210B but also on coil 210A. In that case, a current (driving current) will be passed through coil 210A so that coil 210A generates a magnetic field that cancels the holding force of arrow Z1. The instantaneous energization of coil 210A will further increase the driving force in the first direction D1 from solenoid A1.

[0058] On the other hand, when moving the plunger 2106 from the first position to the second position, energizing the coil 210A on the second direction D2 side generates a magnetic field in the coil 210A. As a result, an attractive force (magnetic force) is generated that pulls the plunger 2106 toward the second direction D2. This attractive force cancels out the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101, releasing the plunger 2106 and causing the plunger 2106 (and shaft 2102) to move toward the second direction D2. In other words, a current (drive current) is passed through the coil 210A so that a magnetic field is generated in the coil 210A that cancels out the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101. Subsequently, the plunger 2106 is restricted from further movement by hitting the base 2103. As a result, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 reach the second position, which is closer to the second direction D2 than the permanent magnet 2101.

[0059] In this way, the movement of the plunger 2106 from the first position to the second position is synchronized with the movement of the shaft 2102, thereby generating a driving force in the second direction D2 from the solenoid A1.

[0060] The energization of coil 210A to move plunger 2106 from the first position to the second position is instantaneous, and the attractive force of coil 210A disappears immediately. However, even when coil 210A is not energized, plunger 2106 is held in the second position by the holding force (magnetic force) of permanent magnet 2101. When moving plunger 2106 from the first position to the second position, instantaneous energization may be performed not only on coil 210A but also on coil 210B. In that case, a current (driving current) will be passed through coil 210B so that coil 210B generates a magnetic field that cancels out the holding force of permanent magnet 2101. The instantaneous energization of coil 210B will further increase the driving force in the second direction D2 from solenoid A1.

[0061] [Configuration of the switching control mechanism] The switching control mechanism 211 has a movable body 212, as shown in Figures 4, 7, and 8. Note that the solenoid A1 is not shown in Figure 4. The movable body 212 is, for example, a rectangular frame-shaped part as a whole. The tip of the shaft 2102 of the solenoid A1 is connected to the end of the movable body 212 on the second direction D2 side. The movable body 212 moves along the first direction D1 or the second direction D2 together with the shaft 2102. That is, the movable body 212 is configured to move in a straight line along the first direction D1 by receiving the driving force in the first direction D1 generated by the actuator 210 from the shaft 2102. The movable body 212 is also configured to move in a straight line along the second direction D2 by receiving the driving force in the second direction D2 generated by the actuator 210 from the shaft 2102.

[0062] [Configuration of the switching unit] The switching unit 204 switches the power supply to the load L1 between at least the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. The switching unit 204 switches the connection state between a first connection state in which at least the grid power supply CS and the load L1 are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power supply DS and the load L1 are electrically connected.

[0063] The switching unit 204 includes a switching mechanism 220, a first terminal 221, and a second terminal 222. The first terminal 221 is connected to the grid power supply CS. The second terminal 222 is connected to the distributed power supply DS. The switching mechanism 220 includes a third terminal 223 connected to the load L1, and switches the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222.

[0064] The switching unit 204 is provided with three first terminals 221 (see Figure 4). When it is necessary to distinguish between the three first terminals 221, they may be referred to as first terminals 221a, 221b, and 221c, respectively.

[0065] The first terminal 221a is electrically connected to the first input terminal 21a. That is, the first terminal 221a is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12a of the main circuit breaker 1 via the first input terminal 21a. The first terminal 221b is electrically connected to the first input terminal 21b. That is, the first terminal 221b is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12b of the main circuit breaker 1 via the first input terminal 21b. The first terminal 221c is electrically connected to the first input terminal 21c. That is, the first terminal 221c is electrically connected to the secondary terminal 12c of the main circuit breaker 1 via the first input terminal 21c.

[0066] The switching unit 204 is provided with three second terminals 222 (see Figure 5). When it is necessary to distinguish between the three second terminals 222, they may be referred to as second terminals 222a, 222b, and 222c, respectively.

[0067] The second terminal 222a is electrically connected to the second input terminal 23a. That is, the second terminal 222a is connected to the power line of the first voltage pole (L1 phase) of wire W3 via the second input terminal 23a. The second terminal 222b is electrically connected to the second input terminal 23b. That is, the second terminal 222b is connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of wire W3 via the second input terminal 23b. The second terminal 222c is electrically connected to the second input terminal 23c. That is, the second terminal 222c is connected to the power line of the neutral pole (N phase) of wire W3 via the second input terminal 23c.

[0068] The switching mechanism 220 switches the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 using a butt-type contact connection.

[0069] The switching mechanism 220 is provided with three third terminals 223 (see Figure 4). When it is necessary to distinguish between the three third terminals 223, they may be referred to as third terminals 223a, 223b, and 223c.

[0070] One end of the third terminal 223 is electrically connected to the output terminal 22. More specifically, one end of the third terminal 223a is electrically connected to the output terminal 22a. One end of the third terminal 223b is electrically connected to the output terminal 22b. One end of the third terminal 223c is electrically connected to the output terminal 22c.

[0071] The other end of the third terminal 223 is selectively connected to either the first terminal 221 or the second terminal 222. More specifically, the other end of the third terminal 223a is selectively connected to either the first terminal 221a or the second terminal 222a. The other end of the third terminal 223b is selectively connected to either the first terminal 221b or the second terminal 222b. The other end of the third terminal 223c is selectively connected to either the first terminal 221c or the second terminal 222c.

[0072] Each of the third terminals 223 of the switching mechanism 220 is configured to be rotatable in accordance with the movement of the mobile body 212. The third terminal 223 has a pair of shaft portions 224 (see Figure 5). Specifically, the third terminal 223a has a pair of shaft portions 224a that protrude along the alignment direction D3 (see Figure 4) in which the three third terminals 223 are aligned. The third terminal 223b has a pair of shaft portions 224b that protrude along the alignment direction D3. The third terminal 223c has a pair of shaft portions 224c that protrude along the alignment direction D3. The third terminal 223a rotates around the pair of shaft portions 224a as an axis of rotation in accordance with the movement of the mobile body 212. The third terminal 223b rotates around the pair of shaft portions 224b as an axis of rotation in accordance with the movement of the mobile body 212. The third terminal 223c rotates around the pair of shaft portions 224c as an axis of rotation in accordance with the movement of the mobile body 212.

[0073] Here, the contact surfaces of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 with the third terminal 223 are provided along a direction (alignment direction D3) that intersects the rotational direction of the third terminal 223. That is, the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 are provided so that their respective width directions intersect the first direction D1 and the second direction D2. As a result, when the third terminal 223 rotates, it selectively abuts and contacts either the first terminal 221 or the second terminal 222. Here, the width direction is the direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction and the thickness direction of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222, respectively.

[0074] The switching mechanism 220 includes a toggle mechanism 225. The switching mechanism 220 is provided with three toggle mechanisms 225 (see Figure 5). When it is necessary to distinguish between the three toggle mechanisms 225, they may be referred to as toggle mechanisms 225a, 225b, and 225c.

[0075] The toggle mechanism 225 is provided at the tip of the third terminal 223. The tip of the third terminal 223 is a different end from the end of the third terminal 223 that is electrically connected to the output terminal 22. The toggle mechanism 225 increases the rotational force of the third terminal 223 generated in response to the movement of the movable body 212, thereby allowing the third terminal 223 to selectively contact either the first terminal 221 or the second terminal 222 more quickly. Furthermore, by using the toggle mechanism 225, the connection between the third terminal 223 and the terminal to which the third terminal 223 is connected can be stabilized.

[0076] (2.1.3) Conductive bar Each of the three conductive bars 3 is formed into a long, plate-like shape using a conductive material. Each conductive bar 3 is positioned to the right of the switch 2 inside the cabinet C1, extending along the left-right direction. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three conductive bars 3, they may be referred to as conductive bar 3a, 3b, and 3c, respectively.

[0077] Each of the three conductive bars 3 is connected to the output terminal 22 of the switch 2. More specifically, the left end of conductive bar 3a is connected to output terminal 22a, the left end of conductive bar 3b is connected to output terminal 22b, and the left end of conductive bar 3c is connected to output terminal 22c. That is, conductive bar 3a is the first voltage pole (L1 phase), conductive bar 3b is the second voltage pole (L2 phase), and conductive bar 3c is the neutral pole (N phase).

[0078] (2.1.4) Branch circuit breaker The multiple branch circuit breakers 4 are arranged inside the cabinet C1, divided into upper and lower sections in front of the conductive bar 3, with multiple breakers on each section arranged in a left-right direction.

[0079] Each of the multiple branch circuit breakers 4 has a pair of primary terminals and a pair of secondary terminals. Each branch circuit breaker 4 has contacts within the case 40 that electrically connect or disconnect the primary and secondary terminals. Each branch circuit breaker 4 also has an operating lever 41 on the front of the case 40 for turning the contacts on or off.

[0080] There are two types of branch circuit breakers 4: one for 100V and one for 200V. The pair of primary terminals on the 100V branch circuit breaker 4 are connected to one of the conductive bars 3a (first voltage pole) and 3b (second voltage pole), and to the conductive bar 3c (neutral pole), respectively. The pair of primary terminals on the 200V branch circuit breaker 4 are connected to the conductive bar 3a (first voltage pole) and the conductive bar 3b (second voltage pole), respectively. In addition, a load L1 is electrically connected to the pair of secondary terminals on the branch circuit breaker 4 via a wire W4. The load L1 includes, for example, electrical appliances such as lighting fixtures and hot water supply equipment, as well as wiring devices such as outlets and wall switches.

[0081] The branch circuit breaker 4 is equipped with a function to detect overcurrent abnormalities, such as short-circuit current or overload current, which flow through the contacts. When an overcurrent abnormality is detected, it opens the contacts. In other words, when the branch circuit breaker 4 detects an overcurrent abnormality, it cuts off the power supply to the load L1. As described above, the branch circuit breaker 4 electrically connects and disconnects the conductive bar 3 and the load L1.

[0082] (2.1.5) Interconnection breaker The interconnection breaker 5 is located inside cabinet C1, to the left of the main breaker 1. Three primary terminals 51 (see Figure 2) are provided at the upper end of the case 50 of the interconnection breaker 5, and three secondary terminals 52 (see Figure 2) are provided at the lower end of the case 50 of the interconnection breaker 5. In the following description, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three primary terminals 51, they may be referred to as primary terminals 51a, 51b, and 51c. Similarly, when it is necessary to distinguish between the three secondary terminals 52, they may be referred to as secondary terminals 52a, 52b, and 52c.

[0083] The interconnection breaker 5 has contacts within the case 50 that electrically connect and disconnect between the primary terminal 51 and the secondary terminal 52. The interconnection breaker 5 also has an operating lever 53 on the front of the case 50 for turning the contacts on or off. The interconnection breaker 5 is equipped with a function to detect overcurrent abnormalities, such as short-circuit current or overload current, which flow through the contacts, and opens the contacts when an overcurrent abnormality is detected. The interconnection breaker 5 may also have a function to open the contacts when it detects leakage current, neutral wire phase loss, etc.

[0084] The primary terminal 51 is electrically connected to the single-phase three-wire power line W1 of the commercial power grid CS. More specifically, the primary terminal 51a is electrically connected to the power line of the first voltage pole (L1 phase) of power line W1. The primary terminal 51b is electrically connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of power line W1. The primary terminal 51c is electrically connected to the power line of the neutral pole (N phase) of power line W1.

[0085] The secondary terminal 52 is electrically connected to the interconnection output terminal T1 of the distributed power supply DS via the wire W2. More specifically, the secondary terminal 52a is electrically connected to the power line of the first voltage pole (L1 phase) of the wire W2. The secondary terminal 52b is electrically connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of the wire W2. The secondary terminal 52c is electrically connected to the power line of the neutral pole (N phase) of the wire W2.

[0086] In other words, if the contacts of the interconnection breaker 5 are ON, the power output from the interconnection output terminal T1 of the distributed power supply DS is supplied to the power line W1 as an interconnection output. The distributed power supply DS controls the power output from the interconnection output terminal T1 to be connected to the commercial power grid CS. Also, if the contacts of the interconnection breaker 5 are OFF, the distributed power supply DS is disconnected from the commercial power grid CS.

[0087] (2.1.6) Distributed power generation The distributed power supply DS comprises a power generation device or an energy storage device. The power generation device is, for example, a solar power generation device, a wind power generation device, a hydroelectric power generation device, a biomass power generation device, a geothermal power generation device, a hydrogen power generation device, or a fossil fuel power generation device. The energy storage device is not limited to stationary types, but also includes batteries mounted on electric vehicles. The distributed power supply DS converts the power generated by the power generation device or the power discharged by the energy storage device into single-phase three-wire power and outputs it from the grid connection output terminal T1 or the independent output terminal T2. The distributed power supply DS outputs power connected to the commercial power grid CS from the grid connection output terminal T1. If the contacts of the grid connection breaker 5 are ON, the power output from the grid connection output terminal T1 is supplied to the power line W1 as grid connection output. The distributed power supply DS also outputs independent power from the independent output terminal T2. The independent power is supplied to the conductive bar 3 if the switch 2 is conducting between the second input terminal 23 and the output terminal 22.

[0088] The distributed power supply DS detects the voltage of the commercial power grid CS (system voltage), for example, the voltage at the interconnection output terminal T1. Based on the system voltage, the distributed power supply DS determines whether or not the commercial power grid CS has experienced a power outage. Based on this determination result, the distributed power supply DS controls the output of the interconnection output terminal T1 and the output of the independent output terminal T2.

[0089] Specifically, under normal circumstances when the commercial power grid CS is not experiencing a power outage, the distributed power supply DS outputs interconnected power from the interconnected output terminal T1 and does not output independent power from the independent output terminal T2. On the other hand, during a power outage when the commercial power grid CS is experiencing a power outage, the distributed power supply DS outputs independent power from the independent output terminal T2 and does not output interconnected power from the interconnected output terminal T1.

[0090] (3) Operation of the switch (3.1) First action This section describes the operation of switch 2 in which it switches the power supply to load L1 from grid power supply CS to distributed power supply DS.

[0091] When the power supply to the load L1 is the grid power supply CS, the third terminal 223 is electrically connected to the first terminal 221 (see Figure 8). That is, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 are located at a first position (shown in Figure 8) that is closer to the first direction D1 than the permanent magnet 2101.

[0092] If the detection unit 201 determines, based on its detection results, that it should switch the connection destination of load L1 from grid power supply CS to distributed power supply DS, the control unit 202 drives the actuator 210. For example, if the detection unit 201 determines, based on the first voltage it detects, that the power supply state from grid power supply CS has switched from a first state to a second state, the control unit 202 drives the actuator 210. More specifically, the control unit 202 supplies power from the distributed power supply DS to the actuator 210.

[0093] When the actuator 210 is driven, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 move in the second direction D2 (see Figure 8), and consequently the moving body 212 moves along the second direction D2 (see Figure 8). The plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 then reach a second position (shown in Figure 7) that is closer to the second direction D2 side than the permanent magnet 2101.

[0094] Even if the control unit 202 stops driving the actuator 210, that is, even if the control unit 202 stops supplying power from the distributed power supply DS to the actuator 210, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 are maintained in the second position by the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101. As a result, the moving body 212 is also maintained in the position shown in Figure 7.

[0095] In Figures 7 and 8, for convenience, only the first terminal 221b, second terminal 222b, third terminal 223b, and toggle mechanism 225b are shown as examples for the three first terminals 221, three second terminals 222, three third terminals 223, and three toggle mechanisms 225.

[0096] As the plunger 2106 moves from the first position to the second position, the three third terminals 223 rotate around the shaft 224 as the movable body 212 moves along the second direction D2. For example, in Figure 8, as the movable body 212 moves along the second direction D2, the three third terminals 223 rotate counterclockwise around the shaft 224 as the axis of rotation. As a result, each third terminal 223 moves away from the first terminal 221 it was in contact with and comes into contact with the second terminal 222. Consequently, the third terminal 223 becomes disconnected from the first terminal 221 and connects with the second terminal 222. At this time, the toggle mechanism 225 quickly connects the third terminal 223 to the second terminal 222 after it has become disconnected from the first terminal 221. By using the toggle mechanism 225, the connection between the third terminal 223 and the second terminal 222 can be stabilized.

[0097] (3.2)Second operation This section describes the operation in which switch 2 switches the power supply to load L1 from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS.

[0098] When the power supply to the load L1 is a distributed power supply DS, the third terminal 223 is electrically connected to the second terminal 222 (see Figure 7). That is, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 are located in a second position (shown in Figure 7) that is closer to the second direction D2 side than the permanent magnet 2101.

[0099] If the detection unit 201 determines, based on its detection results, that it should switch the connection destination of load L1 from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS, the control unit 202 drives the actuator 210. For example, if the detection unit 201 determines, based on the first voltage it detects, that the power supply state from the grid power supply CS has switched from the second state to the first state, the control unit 202 drives the actuator 210. More specifically, the control unit 202 supplies power from the grid power supply CS to the actuator 210.

[0100] When the actuator 210 is driven, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 move in the first direction D1 (see Figure 7), and consequently the moving body 212 moves along the first direction D1 (see Figure 7). The plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 then reach a first position (shown in Figure 8) that is closer to the first direction D1 side than the permanent magnet 2101.

[0101] Even if the control unit 202 stops driving the actuator 210, that is, even if the control unit 202 stops supplying power from the grid power supply CS to the actuator 210, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 are maintained in the first position by the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101. As a result, the movable body 212 is also maintained in the position shown in Figure 8.

[0102] As the plunger 2106 moves from the second position to the first position, the three third terminals 223 rotate around the shaft 224 as the movable body 212 moves along the first direction D1. For example, in Figure 7, as the movable body 212 moves along the first direction D1, the three third terminals 223 rotate clockwise around the shaft 224 as the axis of rotation. As a result, each third terminal 223 moves away from the second terminal 222, with which it was in contact, and comes into contact with the first terminal 221. Consequently, the third terminal 223 becomes disconnected from the second terminal 222 and connects with the first terminal 221. At this time, the toggle mechanism 225 quickly connects the third terminal 223 to the first terminal 221 after it has become disconnected from the second terminal 222. By using the toggle mechanism 225, the connection between the third terminal 223 and the first terminal 221 can be stabilized.

[0103] (4) Advantages As described above, the power switching system 2a according to this embodiment is switched between grid power supply CS and distributed power supply DS by bidirectional driving force in a first direction D1 and a second direction D2 generated by a single actuator 210 (a single-element actuator). Therefore, it is possible to switch between grid power supply CS and distributed power supply DS using a method different from conventional methods.

[0104] Furthermore, the inclusion of a toggle mechanism 225 in the switching mechanism 220 allows for quick connection of the third terminal 223 to the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222, respectively. This also helps to stabilize the connection.

[0105] Furthermore, a single actuator 210 (a single-element actuator) can be driven by instantaneous energization because it includes a bidirectional holding type (two-coil type) solenoid A1. In other words, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 are maintained in the first or second position by the permanent magnet 2101, so energization is rarely required except when switching connections. As a result, the power consumption of the actuator 210 can be reduced.

[0106] (5) Variant The following lists some variations. Each variation described below can be applied in appropriate combination with the above embodiment or other variations. In the descriptions of each variation below, components similar to those in the power switching system 2a according to the above embodiment may be given the same reference numerals, and their detailed descriptions may be omitted.

[0107] (5.1) Variation 1 The following describes the power switching system 2a according to Modification 1, with reference to Figures 9 and 10.

[0108] In the above embodiment, the switching mechanism 220 is configured to switch the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 using a butt-type contact connection. However, the configuration is not limited to this.

[0109] In the power switching system 2a according to Modification 1, the switching mechanism 220 differs from the power switching system 2a according to the above embodiment in that it switches the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 by a sliding contact connection.

[0110] The switching mechanism 220 of Modified Example 1 is provided with a pair of shaft portions 224 on the surfaces facing each other in the thickness direction of the third terminal 223 of Modified Example 1. The third terminal 223 of Modified Example 1 rotates around the shaft portions 224 as its axis of rotation. Here, the thickness direction of the third terminal 223 of Modified Example 1 is the direction that intersects (is perpendicular to) the first direction D1. That is, the third terminal 223 of Modified Example 1 has a pair of shaft portions 224 that protrude along the alignment direction D3 (see Figure 4).

[0111] Here, the contact surfaces of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 with the third terminal 223 are provided along the rotational direction of the third terminal 223. That is, the width directions of the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222 are provided parallel to the first direction D1. As a result, when the third terminal 223 rotates, it selectively slides and contacts either the first terminal 221 or the second terminal 222.

[0112] In Figure 10, the third terminal 223 is electrically connected to the first terminal 221. In other words, the grid power supply CS is selected as the power source to supply power to the load L1.

[0113] In the state shown in Figure 10, when the power supply to load L1 is switched from grid power supply CS to distributed power supply DS, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 move in the second direction D2 (see Figure 10), and consequently the moving body 212 moves along the second direction D2 (see Figure 10). The plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 then reach a second position (shown in Figure 9) that is closer to the second direction D2 side than the permanent magnet 2101. Even if the control unit 202 stops driving the actuator 210, the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101 keeps the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 in the second position. As a result, the moving body 212 is also kept in the position shown in Figure 9.

[0114] In Figures 9 and 10, for convenience, only the first terminal 221b, second terminal 222b, third terminal 223b, and toggle mechanism 225b are shown as examples for the three first terminals 221, three second terminals 222, three third terminals 223, and three toggle mechanisms 225.

[0115] As the plunger 2106 moves from the first position to the second position, the three third terminals 223 rotate around the shaft 224 as the movable body 212 moves along the second direction D2. For example, in Figure 10, as the movable body 212 moves along the second direction D2, the three third terminals 223 rotate counterclockwise around the shaft 224 as the axis of rotation. As a result, each third terminal 223 slides away from the first terminal 221 it was in contact with and slides into contact with the second terminal 222.

[0116] In Figure 9, the third terminal 223 is electrically connected to the second terminal 222. In other words, a distributed power supply DS is selected as the power source to supply power to the load L1.

[0117] In the state shown in Figure 9, when the power supply to load L1 is switched from the distributed power supply DS to the grid power supply CS, the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 move in the first direction D1 (see Figure 9), and consequently the moving body 212 moves along the first direction D1 (see Figure 9). The plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 then reach a first position (the position shown in Figure 10) that is closer to the first direction D1 side than the permanent magnet 2101. Even if the control unit 202 stops driving the actuator 210, the holding force of the permanent magnet 2101 keeps the plunger 2106 and shaft 2102 in the first position. As a result, the moving body 212 is also kept in the position shown in Figure 10.

[0118] As the plunger 2106 moves from the second position to the first position, the three third terminals 223 rotate around the shaft 224 as the axis of rotation in accordance with the movement of the moving body 212 along the first direction D1. For example, in Figure 9, as the moving body 212 moves along the first direction D1, the three third terminals 223 rotate clockwise around the shaft 224 as the axis of rotation. As a result, each third terminal 223 slides away from the second terminal 222 with which it was in contact, and slides into contact with the first terminal 221.

[0119] According to the configuration of Modified Example 1, the connection destination can be switched by contact connection using a sliding method.

[0120] (5.2) Variation 2 The following describes the power switching system 2a related to the modified example 2, with reference to Figure 11.

[0121] The power switching system 2a according to the modified example 2 differs from the power switching system 2a according to the above embodiment in that a single actuator 210 includes a single motor B1 that is driven by continuous energization.

[0122] In Modification 2, the motor B1 is a linear motor B11. The linear motor B11 includes, for example, a stator B110, a plurality of permanent magnets B111 (with alternating arrangements of S-pole and N-pole permanent magnets) provided on the stator B110, a plurality of coils B112 facing the plurality of permanent magnets B111, and a movable element B113 that holds the plurality of coils B112. The end of the movable element B113 on the first direction D1 side is connected to a mobile body 212, and the mobile body 212 moves together with the movable element B113. In Modification 2, the control unit 202 controls the energization of the plurality of coils B112 to cause the movable element B110 to move in a straight line in the first direction D1 or the second direction D2. As a result, the power switching system 2a according to Modification 2 can switch the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222, similar to the embodiment described above.

[0123] According to the configuration of Modified Example 2, a single motor B1 can be used to switch between grid power supply CS and distributed power supply DS.

[0124] (5.3) Modification 3 The following describes the power switching system 2a related to the modified example 3, with reference to Figure 12.

[0125] In the power switching system 2a according to Modification 3, similar to Modification 2 described above, a single actuator 210 includes a single motor B1 driven by continuous energization.

[0126] In Modification 3, motor B1 is a rotary motor B12. In particular, in Modification 3, actuator 210 has a rack and pinion mechanism that converts the rotational motion of motor B12 into linear motion. The rack and pinion mechanism includes motor B12, a pinion gear B120 connected to the output shaft of motor B12, and a long rack B13 along a first direction D1. Motor B12 is positioned such that its output shaft is parallel to, for example, the alignment direction D3.

[0127] When motor B12 is driven, pinion gear B120 rotates, and the rotation of pinion gear B120 causes rack B13 to move in a straight line. For example, when motor B12 is driven so that pinion gear B120 rotates in the forward direction, rack B13 moves in a straight line along the first direction D1, and when motor B12 is driven so that pinion gear B120 rotates in the reverse direction, rack B13 can move in a straight line along the second direction D2. The end of rack B13 on the side of the first direction D1 is connected to a movable body 212, and the movable body 212 moves together with rack B13. In modified example 3, the control unit 202 controls the energization of the coil of motor B12 to cause rack B13 to move in a straight line in the first direction D1 or the second direction D2. As a result, the power switching system 2a according to modified example 3 can switch the connection destination of the third terminal 223 between the first terminal 221 and the second terminal 222, similar to the embodiment described above.

[0128] According to the configuration of Modified Example 3, a single motor B1 can be used to switch between grid power supply CS and distributed power supply DS.

[0129] (5.4) Modification 4 The following describes the power switching system 2a related to the modified example 4, with reference to Figure 13.

[0130] In the above embodiment, the switching unit 204 is configured to switch the connection state between a first connection state and a second connection state. However, the configuration is not limited to this.

[0131] The switching unit 204 of the power switching system 2a according to Modification 4 differs from the power switching system 2a according to the above embodiment in that it switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of a first connection state, a second connection state, or a neutral state in which it is not electrically connected to either the grid power supply CS or the distributed power supply DS.

[0132] In the modified example 4, the switching control unit 203 is configured to control the switching of the connection state by the switching unit 204 so that the connection state is one of the first connection state, the second connection state, or the neutral state. Note that, for convenience, the actuator 210 of the switching control unit 203 is omitted from the illustration in Figure 13.

[0133] In Modification 4, it is assumed that a single actuator 210 includes a single motor B1 driven by continuous energization, similar to Modifications 2 and 3 above. In Modification 4, motor B1 may be a linear motor B11, as in Modification 2 above. Alternatively, motor B1 may be a rotary motor B12, as in Modification 3 above, and actuator 210 may have a rack and pinion mechanism.

[0134] In the modified example 4, by driving and stopping the motor B1, it is possible to keep the third terminal 223 in a neutral position, not connected to either the first terminal 221 or the second terminal 222, as shown in the center of Figure 13. In other words, the control unit 202 is configured to drive and stop the motor B1 to maintain the movable body 212 in the neutral position via the movable element B113 (see Figure 11) and the rack B13 (see Figure 12).

[0135] According to the configuration of Modified Example 4, for example, if power cannot be supplied from either the grid power supply CS or the distributed power supply DS, the system can be set to a neutral state.

[0136] (5.5) Variation 5 The following describes the power switching system 2a related to Modification 5 with reference to Figure 14.

[0137] In the modified example 4, instead of setting the third terminal 223 to a neutral state, it may be configured to be connected to a distributed power supply DS1 that is different from the distributed power supply DS.

[0138] The switching unit 204 of the power switching system 2a according to modified example 5 switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of the following: the first connection state, the second connection state, or the third connection state in which a distributed power source DS1, separate from the distributed power source DS, is electrically connected to the load L1.

[0139] The switching unit 204 of Modified Example 5 has a fourth terminal 226 that is electrically connected to the distributed power supply DS1 (see Figure 14). The switching unit 204 of Modified Example 5 is provided with three fourth terminals 226. The three fourth terminals 226 correspond one-to-one with the three third terminals 223. The three third terminals 223 are connected to the corresponding fourth terminals 226 according to the movement of the mobile body 212. Note that, for convenience, the actuator 210 of the switching control unit 203 is omitted from the illustration in Figure 14.

[0140] Of the three fourth terminals 226, the first fourth terminal 226 is connected to the power line of the first voltage pole (L1 phase) of the wire connected to the distributed power supply DS1. The second fourth terminal 226 is connected to the power line of the second voltage pole (L2 phase) of the wire connected to the distributed power supply DS1. The third fourth terminal 226 is connected to the power line of the neutral pole (N phase) of the wire connected to the distributed power supply DS1.

[0141] In modified example 5, the motor B1 (see Figures 11 and 12) can be driven and stopped to keep the third terminal 223 in the position where it is connected to the fourth terminal 226, as shown in Figure 14. In other words, the control unit 202 is configured to drive and stop the motor B1 to maintain the movable body 212 in the position where the third terminal 223 is connected to the fourth terminal 226 via the movable element B113 (see Figure 11) and rack B13 (see Figure 12).

[0142] In this case, it is preferable that the switching mechanism 220 selectively switches the connection destination of the third terminal 223 to one of the first terminal 221, the second terminal 222, or the fourth terminal 226 by contact connection using a sliding method, as shown in Figure 14.

[0143] In other words, the switching control unit 203 of the modified example 5 controls the switching of the connection state by the switching unit 204 so that the connection state becomes one of the first connection state, the second connection state, or the third connection state.

[0144] According to the configuration of Modified Example 5, it is possible to connect not only to the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS, but also to another distributed power supply DS1.

[0145] (5.6) Variation 6 In the above embodiment, the switch 2 is configured to be placed between the main circuit breaker 1 and the branch circuit breaker 4. However, the configuration is not limited to this.

[0146] The switch 2 may be placed downstream of the branch breaker 4. In this case, the first input terminal 21 of the switch 2 is electrically connected to the main breaker 1. The output terminal 22 of the switch 2 is electrically connected to a branch breaker other than the branch breaker 4, to which a specific load L1 is connected.

[0147] This configuration allows power to be supplied to a specific load L1 when the power source supplying the load is switched from the grid power source CS to the distributed power source DS.

[0148] (5.7) Variation 7 In the above embodiment, the switch 2 is configured to switch the power supply to the load L1 between the grid power supply CS and the distributed power supply DS. However, the configuration is not limited to this. The switch 2 may also switch the power supply to the load L1 between the distributed power supply DS and a distributed power supply different from the distributed power supply DS.

[0149] (5.8) Variation 8 Furthermore, it is not essential for the power switching system 2a (switch 2) to have multiple functions integrated into a single enclosure (case 20), and the components of the power switching system 2a may be distributed across multiple enclosures.

[0150] (summary) Based on the embodiments described above, the following aspects are disclosed.

[0151] The power switching system (2a) according to the first embodiment comprises a switching unit (204), a switching control unit (203), and a control unit (202). The switching unit (204) switches the power supply to the load (L1) between at least a grid power supply (CS) and a distributed power supply (DS). The switching control unit (203) controls the switching of the power supply by the switching unit (204). The control unit (202) controls the switching control unit (203) according to the state of at least the grid power supply (CS) among the grid power supply (CS) and the distributed power supply (DS). The switching unit (204) switches the connection state between a first connection state in which at least the grid power supply (CS) and the load (L1) are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power supply (DS) and the load (L1) are electrically connected. The switching control unit (203) comprises a single actuator (210) and a switching control mechanism (211). The switching control mechanism (211) controls the switching of the connection state by the switching unit (204) using the driving force of the actuator (210). The actuator (210) generates driving force in both directions: a first direction (D1) and a second direction (D2) opposite to the first direction (D1).

[0152] According to the above embodiment, the switching between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS) is performed by bidirectional driving forces in a first direction (D1) and a second direction (D2) generated by a single actuator (210). Therefore, the switching between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS) can be performed in a manner different from conventional methods.

[0153] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the second embodiment, in the first embodiment, the switching unit (204) has a first terminal (221) connected to a grid power supply (CS), a second terminal (222) connected to a distributed power supply (DS), and a switching mechanism (220). The switching mechanism (220) includes a third terminal (223) connected to a load (L1). The switching mechanism (220) switches the connection destination of the third terminal (223) between the first terminal (221) and the second terminal (222). The switching mechanism (220) includes a toggle mechanism (225).

[0154] According to the above embodiment, the connection destination can be switched quickly. In addition, the connection between the third terminal (223) and the terminal to which the third terminal (223) is connected can be stabilized.

[0155] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the third embodiment, in the second embodiment, the switching mechanism (220) switches the connection destination of the third terminal (223) between the first terminal (221) and the second terminal (222) by abutting contact connection.

[0156] According to the above embodiment, the connection destination can be switched by contact connection using a butt joint method.

[0157] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the fourth embodiment, in the second embodiment, the switching mechanism (220) switches the connection destination of the third terminal (223) between the first terminal (221) and the second terminal (222) by contact connection using a sliding method.

[0158] According to the above embodiment, the connection destination can be switched by contact connection using a sliding method.

[0159] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the fifth embodiment, in any one of the first to fourth embodiments, the switching unit (204) switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of a first connection state, a second connection state, or a neutral state in which it is not electrically connected to either the grid power supply (CS) or the distributed power supply (DS).

[0160] According to the above embodiment, the system can be put into a neutral state when power cannot be supplied from either the grid power supply (CS) or the distributed power supply (DS).

[0161] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the sixth embodiment, in any one of the first to fifth embodiments, the switching unit (204) switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of the first connection state, the second connection state, or the third connection state in which a distributed power source (DS1) separate from the distributed power source (DS) is electrically connected to the load (L1).

[0162] According to the above embodiment, it is possible to connect not only to grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS), but also to another distributed power (DS1).

[0163] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the seventh embodiment, in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, a single actuator (210) includes a single solenoid (A1) that is driven by instantaneous energization.

[0164] According to the above embodiment, a single solenoid (A1) can be used to switch between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS).

[0165] With respect to the power switching system (2a) according to the eighth embodiment, in any one of the first to sixth embodiments, a single actuator (210) includes a single motor (B1) that is driven by continuous energization.

[0166] According to the above embodiment, a single motor (B1) can be used to switch between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS).

[0167] The distribution board (100) according to the ninth embodiment comprises a power switching system (2a) according to any one of the first to eighth embodiments, and a cabinet (C1) housing the power switching system (2a).

[0168] According to the above embodiment, a distribution board (100) can be provided that can switch between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS) using a method different from the conventional method.

[0169] The power supply system (200) according to the tenth embodiment comprises a power switching system (2a) according to any one of the first to eighth embodiments, and a distributed power source (DS).

[0170] According to the above embodiment, a power supply system (200) can be provided that can switch between grid power (CS) and distributed power (DS) using a method different from the conventional method.

[0171] The configurations relating to aspects 2 to 8 are not essential to the power switching system (2a) and may be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0172] 100-unit distribution board 200 Power supply systems 202 Control Unit 203 Switching Control Unit 204 Switching section 210 Actuator 211 Switching control mechanism 220 Switching mechanism 221 1st terminal 222 2nd terminal 223 3rd terminal 2a Power switching system A1 Solenoid B1 Motor C1 Cabinet CS grid power supply DS Distributed Power DS1 Another distributed power source D1 1st direction D2 2nd direction L1 load

Claims

1. A switching unit that switches the power supply to the load between at least grid power and distributed power sources, A switching control unit that controls the switching of the power supply by the switching unit, The system comprises a control unit that controls the switching control unit according to the state of at least the system power supply among the system power supply and the distributed power supply, The switching unit switches the connection state between a first connection state in which the grid power supply and the load are electrically connected and a second connection state in which the distributed power supply and the load are electrically connected. The switching control unit described above, A single actuator and The device includes a switching control mechanism that uses the driving force of the actuator to control the switching of the connection state by the switching unit, The actuator generates the driving force in both directions: a first direction and a second direction opposite to the first direction. Power switching system.

2. The aforementioned switching unit is A first terminal connected to the aforementioned power supply system, A second terminal connected to the aforementioned distributed power supply, It includes a third terminal connected to the load, and a switching mechanism for switching the connection destination of the third terminal between the first terminal and the second terminal, The aforementioned switching mechanism includes a toggle mechanism, The power switching system according to claim 1.

3. The switching mechanism switches the connection destination of the third terminal between the first terminal and the second terminal by a butt-type contact connection. The power switching system according to claim 2.

4. The switching mechanism switches the connection destination of the third terminal between the first terminal and the second terminal by a sliding contact connection. The power switching system according to claim 2.

5. The switching unit switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of the first connection state, the second connection state, or a neutral state in which it is not electrically connected to either the grid power supply or the distributed power supply. The power switching system according to claim 1.

6. The switching unit switches the connection state so that the connection state is one of the first connection state, the second connection state, or a third connection state in which a distributed power source other than the distributed power source is electrically connected to the load. The power switching system according to claim 1.

7. The single actuator includes a single solenoid driven by instantaneous energization, The power switching system according to claim 1.

8. The single actuator includes a single motor driven by continuous energization. The power switching system according to claim 1.

9. A power switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The system comprises a cabinet housing the aforementioned power switching system, Distribution board.

10. A power switching system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, The distributed power supply comprises, Power supply system.

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