Circuit breaker and circuit breaker system

Abstract

The objective is to provide a circuit breaker and circuit breaker system that can simplify construction work and operate independently. [Solution] The circuit breaker A1 comprises a pair of power terminals 6 and 7, a circuit breaker 10, a sensor 11, a control unit 14, and a power storage unit 18. The circuit breaker 10 is installed in the circuit M1 between the power generator 30 and the power converter, and is electrically connected to the pair of power terminals 6 and 7. The sensor 11 detects the current from the power generator 30 when the circuit breaker 10 is conducting. The control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 to become non-conducting based on the detection result of the sensor 11. The power storage unit 18 stores at least DC power from the power generator 30. The control unit 14 operates with DC power when the power value of the DC power from the power generator 30 is above a threshold. The control unit 14 operates with DC power stored in the power storage unit 18 when the power value is below the threshold.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a disconnecting device and a disconnection system, and more particularly, to a disconnecting device including a circuit breaker and a disconnection system including the disconnecting device.

Background Art

[0002] An opening and closing device system (disconnection system) described in Patent Document 1 will be exemplified. The opening and closing device system includes an arc detection circuit, an opening and closing device, and an opening and closing control circuit. The arc detection circuit detects an arc generated in a transmission line that transmits power from a PV panel to a power conditioner. The opening and closing control circuit controls the open / closed state of the opening and closing device based on a signal from the arc detection circuit.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] In the opening and closing device system described in Patent Document 1, for example, in order to operate the opening and closing control circuit, it is necessary to secure an operating power source from the outside, and it is difficult to operate independently. Further, in the opening and closing device system, a power supply device for securing an operating power source is required, and construction work (for example, wiring work) may become complicated.

[0005] An object of the present disclosure is to provide a disconnecting device and a disconnection system that can simplify construction work and can operate independently.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A circuit breaker according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a pair of power terminals, a circuit breaker, a sensor, a control unit, and a power storage unit. The pair of power terminals are electrically connected to a power generator that outputs DC power. The circuit breaker is provided in the circuit between the power generator and the power converter and is electrically connected to the pair of power terminals. The sensor detects current from the power generator when the circuit breaker is conducting. The control unit controls the circuit breaker to become non-conducting based on the detection result of the sensor. The power storage unit stores at least the DC power from the power generator. The control unit operates with the DC power when the power value of the DC power from the power generator is equal to or greater than a threshold. The control unit operates with the DC power stored in the power storage unit when the power value is less than the threshold.

[0007] A blocking system according to one aspect of the present disclosure comprises a plurality of blocking devices. Each of the plurality of blocking devices is configured to communicate with one another. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to one aspect of this disclosure, construction work can be simplified and the device can operate independently. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0009] [Figure 1] Figure 1 is a system configuration diagram of the circuit breaker according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] Figure 2 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the use of a circuit breaker system equipped with the same circuit breaker as described above. [Figure 3] Figure 3 is a system configuration diagram of the circuit breaker according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 4] Figure 4 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the use of the above-mentioned circuit breaker. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0010] The following describes a circuit breaker system equipped with a circuit breaker according to Embodiments 1 and 2, with reference to the drawings. The configurations described in each of the embodiments below are merely examples of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is not limited to the embodiments below, and various modifications are possible depending on the design, etc., as long as the effects of the present disclosure can be achieved. Furthermore, the present disclosure can also be applied by appropriately combining at least some of the configurations of each of the embodiments below.

[0011] (Embodiment 1) The following description of the circuit breaker system C1 equipped with the circuit breaker A1 according to Embodiment 1 will be made with reference to Figures 1 and 2.

[0012] (1) Blocking system As shown in Figure 2, the interruption system C1 comprises multiple (three in the example in Figure 2) interruption devices A1. The interruption system C1 is positioned in the electrical circuits (three circuits M1 in the example in Figure 2) between multiple (three in the example in Figure 2) power generators 30 and power converters 40, and is configured to interrupt the aforementioned circuits (hereinafter referred to as "first circuits").

[0013] Each of the multiple circuit breakers A1 is used in a photovoltaic power generation system. For example, each of the multiple circuit breakers A1 is used in a distributed (multi-string) photovoltaic power generation system. A "distributed photovoltaic power generation system" refers to a photovoltaic power generation system in which each of the multiple power generation devices 30 is directly connected to a power converter 40 via a single circuit M1.

[0014] Each of the multiple power generation devices 30 is configured to output DC power. Since the configuration of each of the multiple power generation devices 30 is the same, unless otherwise specified, the following description will refer to one power generation device 30.

[0015] The power generation device 30 is a solar power generation device. The power generation device 30 is installed, for example, on the roof of a dwelling. As shown in Figure 1, the power generation device 30 has multiple (nine in the example in Figure 1) solar panels 3. The multiple solar panels 3 are electrically connected in series and parallel.

[0016] The power conversion device 40 shown in FIG. 2 is configured to convert DC power from the power generation device 30 into AC power. The power conversion device 40 is, for example, a power conditioner. The power conversion device 40 supplies the converted AC power to the distribution board 50.

[0017] (2) Disconnecting device As shown in FIG. 1, each of the plurality of disconnecting devices A1 includes a pair of power supply terminals 6 and 7, a circuit breaker 10, a sensor 11, a control unit 14, a DC / DC converter 17, a power storage unit 18, a communication unit 15, a notification unit 16, a pair of output terminals 8 and 9, and a housing 19. Since the configurations of the plurality of disconnecting devices A1 are common, hereinafter, unless otherwise specified, one disconnecting device A1 will be described. Also, in FIG. 1, the DC / DC converter is abbreviated as "DC / DC".

[0018] The pair of power supply terminals 6 and 7 are electrically connected to the power generation device 30 via a pair of electric wires L11 and L21. The pair of electric wires L11 and L21 include a first positive electrode wire L11 and a first negative electrode wire L21.

[0019] The circuit breaker 10 is provided in the circuit M1 between the power generation device 30 and the power conversion device 40 (see FIG. 2). The circuit breaker 10 is, for example, a relay. Note that the circuit breaker 10 is not limited to a relay and may be, for example, an electromagnetic switch, an electromagnetic contactor, a remote control breaker, or the like.

[0020] The circuit breaker 10 is electrically connected to the pair of power supply terminals 6 and 7. More specifically, the circuit breaker 10 is electrically connected to the pair of power supply terminals 6 and 7 on the side opposite to the power generation device 30 with respect to the pair of power supply terminals 6 and 7. Also, the circuit breaker 10 is electrically connected to each of the sensor 11 and the control unit 14.

[0021] The circuit breaker 10 has a first switch 1 and a second switch 2. The first switch 1 includes an input terminal 1a and an output terminal 1b. The second switch 2 includes an input terminal 2a and an output terminal 2b. In other words, the circuit breaker 10 has a pair of input terminals 1a, 2a and a pair of output terminals 1b, 2b.

[0022] The pair of input terminals 1a, 2a are electrically connected to a pair of power supply terminals 6, 7. Specifically, the input terminal 1a is electrically connected to the power supply terminal 6, and the input terminal 2a is electrically connected to the power supply terminal 7. The pair of output terminals 1b, 2b are electrically connected to the sensor 11.

[0023] Based on the control from the control unit 14, the circuit breaker 10 switches to either a conducting state or a non-conducting state.

[0024] The sensor 11 is configured to detect the current from the power generation device 30 when the circuit breaker 10 is in the conducting state. Also, the sensor 11 is configured to detect the voltage from the power generation device 30 when the circuit breaker 10 is in the conducting state. The sensor 11 is electrically connected to the control unit 14. Also, the sensor 11 is electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8, 9.

[0025] The sensor 11 has a current detection unit 12 and a voltage detection unit 13.

[0026] The current detection unit 12 detects the current from the power generation device 30 when the circuit breaker 10 is in the conducting state. Also, the current detection unit 12 outputs the detected current (detection current) to the control unit 14. The current detection unit 12 is electrically connected to the circuit breaker 10, the control unit 14, and each of the pair of output terminals 8, 9. The current detection unit 12 is provided, for example, in the circuit between the output terminal 1b of the first switch 1 in the circuit breaker 10 and the output terminal 8 of the pair of output terminals 8, 9.

[0027] The voltage detection unit 13 detects the voltage from the power generator 30 when the circuit breaker 10 is in a conductive state. The voltage detection unit 13 also outputs the detected voltage (detected voltage) to the control unit 14. The voltage detection unit 13 is electrically connected to the circuit breaker 10, the control unit 14, and the pair of output terminals 8 and 9. The voltage detection unit 13 is electrically connected between the pair of output terminals 1b and 2b of the circuit breaker 10.

[0028] The control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10, sensor 11, DC / DC converter 17, energy storage unit 18, communication unit 15, and notification unit 16, respectively.

[0029] The control unit 14 is implemented, for example, by a computer system having one or more processors and one or more memories. In other words, the functions of the control unit 14 are realized by one or more processors executing a program stored in memory. The program may be pre-stored in memory, provided via a telecommunication line such as the Internet, or provided on a non-temporary recording medium such as a memory card.

[0030] The control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 so that it changes from a conductive state to a non-conductive state based on the detection result of the sensor 11. More specifically, the control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 so that it changes from a non-conductive state based on the detection result of at least one of the detection results of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 of the sensor 11 and the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 of the sensor 11.

[0031] The DC / DC converter 17 converts the DC power from the power generator 30 (hereinafter referred to as "first DC power") to a predetermined DC voltage (hereinafter referred to as "second DC power") based on control from the control unit 14. More specifically, the DC / DC converter 17 steps down the first DC power from the power generator 30 to the second DC power. The DC / DC converter 17 also outputs the second DC power to the control unit 14 and the energy storage unit 18, respectively. The DC / DC converter 17 is electrically connected to a pair of power terminals 6 and 7, the control unit 14, and the energy storage unit 18, respectively.

[0032] The control unit 14 is configured to operate on DC power from the power generator 30. For example, the control unit 14 operates on second DC power from the DC / DC converter 17. More specifically, the control unit 14 operates on second DC power if the power value of second DC power is above a threshold.

[0033] The energy storage unit 18 is configured to store DC power from the power generation device 30. For example, the energy storage unit 18 stores the second DC power from the DC / DC converter 17. The energy storage unit 18 is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17 and the control unit 14, respectively. The energy storage unit 18 is, for example, a capacitor (for example, a supercapacitor). However, the energy storage unit 18 is not limited to a capacitor and may be something other than a capacitor. For example, the energy storage unit 18 may be a secondary battery.

[0034] The control unit 14 is configured to operate using the DC power stored in the energy storage unit 18 (hereinafter referred to as "third DC power"). For example, the control unit 14 operates using the third DC power when the power value of the second DC power is below a threshold. The power value of the third DC power may be the same as the power value of the second DC power, or it may be greater than the power value of the second DC power. However, the power value of the third DC power must be within the range in which the control unit 14 can operate.

[0035] The control unit 14 is configured to determine the type of arc generated in the electrical circuit M1 (for example, a pair of wires L11, L21, etc.) based on the detection results of the sensor 11. The arc types include series arcs and parallel arcs.

[0036] The term "arc" refers to an arc that occurs when there is an abnormality in an electrical wire. "Abnormality in an electrical wire" includes abnormalities such as deterioration of the electrical wire's insulation or partial breakage. "Partial breakage" means that the electrical wire is about to break. For example, if the electrical wire is stranded, it means that some of the strands that make up the stranded wire have broken.

[0037] A series arc refers to an arc that occurs when one of a pair of wires (for example, wire L11) is partially broken. A parallel arc refers to an arc that occurs when a pair of wires (for example, wires L11 and L21) are short-circuited.

[0038] The control unit 14 determines whether the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 has the characteristics of a series arc. For example, the control unit 14 determines that the type of arc is a series arc if the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 is a high-frequency current (a current containing high-frequency components).

[0039] Furthermore, the control unit 14 determines whether the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 has the characteristics of a parallel arc. For example, the control unit 14 determines that the type of arc is a parallel arc if the waveform of the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 (hereinafter referred to as "current waveform") changes and the current waveform is different from the current waveform when it is a series arc. In other words, the control unit 14 determines that the type of arc is a parallel arc if the current waveform changes and the current waveform is not the waveform of a high-frequency current.

[0040] Furthermore, the control unit 14 determines whether the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 has the characteristics of a parallel arc. For example, the control unit 14 determines that the type of arc is a parallel arc if the voltage value of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 is less than a specified value.

[0041] In this embodiment, the control unit 14 determines that the type of arc is a parallel arc when both the waveform of the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 changes and the waveform of the detected current is not that of a high-frequency current, and the voltage value of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 is less than a specified value. This improves the detection accuracy of parallel arcs in the circuit breaker A1.

[0042] The control unit 14 is configured to determine that the type of arc is a parallel arc when both the waveform of the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 changes and the waveform of the detected current is not that of a high-frequency current, and the voltage value of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 is less than a specified value, but the configuration is not limited to this.

[0043] The control unit 14 may be configured to determine that the type of arc is a parallel arc when the waveform of the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 changes and the waveform of the detected current is not that of a high-frequency current. Alternatively, the control unit 14 may be configured to determine that the type of arc is a parallel arc when the voltage value of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 is less than a specified value. This allows the circuit breaker A1 to detect parallel arcs at high speed. Therefore, the circuit breaker A1 can immediately switch the circuit breaker 10 from a conducting state to a non-conducting state when a parallel arc occurs.

[0044] Therefore, the control unit 14 only needs to determine that the type of arc is a parallel arc if the waveform of the detected current detected by the current detection unit 12 of the sensor 11 changes and the waveform of the detected current is not that of a high-frequency current, or if the voltage value of the detected voltage detected by the voltage detection unit 13 of the sensor 11 is less than a specified value.

[0045] The control unit 14 stores the result (type of arc) determined based on the detection result of the sensor 11 in the memory.

[0046] The control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 so that at least one of the first switch 1 and the second switch 2 changes from a conductive state to a non-conductive state when the arc type is a series arc. The control unit 14 also controls the circuit breaker 10 so that both the first switch 1 and the second switch 2 change from a conductive state to a non-conductive state when the arc type is a parallel arc.

[0047] The communication unit 15 is configured to communicate with other blockers A1. That is, each of the multiple blockers A1 is configured to communicate with each other (for example, wirelessly). More specifically, each of the multiple blockers A1 is configured to communicate with each other via short-range wireless communication. For example, each of the multiple blockers A1 is configured to communicate with each other via wireless communication compliant with the Bluetooth® standard.

[0048] Furthermore, the communication unit 15 is configured to communicate with the communication device 60 (see Figure 2). For example, the communication unit 15 is configured to perform wireless communication (e.g., short-range wireless communication) with the communication device 60. For example, the communication unit 15 is configured to perform wireless communication compliant with the Bluetooth® standard with the communication device 60. The communication unit 15 is electrically connected to the control unit 14.

[0049] The control unit 14 has a function to check the operating state of the sensor 11. For example, when the control unit 14 receives an instruction signal from the communication device 60 via the communication unit 15, it applies a simulated voltage or current to the sensor 11 to operate it and determines whether the sensor 11 is operating normally or not. The control unit 14 also stores the determined operating state of the sensor 11 (normal state or abnormal state) in the memory.

[0050] The communication unit 15 is configured to transmit, for example, information about the type of arc determined by the control unit 14 (hereinafter referred to as "arc information") to other tripping devices A1. Specifically, the control unit 14 controls the communication unit 15 to transmit arc information from the communication unit 15 to other tripping devices A1. This allows tripping device A1 to control other tripping devices A1.

[0051] The notification unit 16 is configured to communicate with, for example, a public wireless communication network. The communication standard of the public wireless communication network is, for example, LPWA (Low Power Wide Area) or LTE (Long Term Evolution). The notification unit 16 is electrically connected to the control unit 14.

[0052] Furthermore, the notification unit 16 is configured to notify at least one of the following: the state of the circuit breaker 10, the type of arc determined by the control unit 14, and the operating state of the sensor 11. The state of the circuit breaker 10 is either conductive or non-conductive. The type of arc is either a series arc or a parallel arc. The operating state of the sensor 11 is either normal or abnormal.

[0053] For example, the notification unit 16 sends at least one piece of information via email to a communication terminal owned by the user or business operator (e.g., a construction company). The notification unit 16 also sends at least one piece of information to an application installed on the communication terminal.

[0054] The communication unit 15 is configured to transmit at least one piece of information to the communication device 60. Specifically, the control unit 14 controls the communication unit 15 to transmit at least one piece of information from the communication unit 15 to the communication device 60.

[0055] The communication device 60 shown in Figure 2 is configured to communicate with each of the multiple circuit breakers A1 (for example, via wireless communication). The communication device 60 is electrically connected to the distribution board 50. The communication device 60 is configured to display information transmitted from at least one of the multiple circuit breakers A1 on a display unit (not shown).

[0056] A pair of output terminals 8 and 9 are electrically connected to a power converter 40 (see Figure 2) via a pair of wires L12 and L22. The pair of wires L12 and L22 include a second positive electrode wire L12 and a second negative electrode wire L22.

[0057] Circuit M1 includes a pair of wires L11, L21 and a pair of wires L12, L22. Circuit M1 has a positive electrode wire and a negative electrode wire. The positive electrode wire of circuit M1 includes a first positive electrode wire L11 and a second positive electrode wire L12. The negative electrode wire of circuit M1 includes a first negative electrode wire L21 and a second negative electrode wire L22.

[0058] The housing 19 houses a pair of power terminals 6 and 7, a circuit breaker 10, a sensor 11, a control unit 14, a DC / DC converter 17, a power storage unit 18, a communication unit 15, a notification unit 16, and a pair of output terminals 8 and 9. The housing 19 has a box-like shape.

[0059] (3) Effects The circuit breaker A1 comprises a pair of power terminals 6 and 7, a circuit breaker 10, a sensor 11, a control unit 14, and a power storage unit 18. The control unit 14 operates on DC power when the power value of the DC power from the power generator 30 (specifically, the second DC power from the DC / DC converter 17) is above a threshold. Furthermore, when the power value of the DC power from the power generator 30 is below the threshold, the control unit 14 operates on the DC power stored in the power storage unit 18 (the third DC power). This eliminates the need for an external power source for operation in the circuit breaker A1, allowing it to operate independently. Additionally, since the circuit breaker A1 does not require a power supply to provide operating power, installation work can be simplified compared to systems requiring a power supply. Therefore, the circuit breaker A1 offers simplified installation work and can operate independently.

[0060] The control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 to a non-conducting state based on the detection result of at least one of the voltage and current detected by the sensor 11. This improves the arc detection accuracy of the circuit breaker A1. Furthermore, the circuit breaker A1 can detect arcs at high speed and quickly switch the circuit breaker 10 from a conductive state to a non-conducting state when an arc occurs.

[0061] The control unit 14 determines the type of arc generated in the circuit M1 based on the detection result of the sensor 11. If the arc type is a series arc, the control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 so that at least one of the first switch 1 and the second switch 2 becomes non-conductive. If the arc type is a parallel arc, the control unit 14 controls the circuit breaker 10 so that both the first switch 1 and the second switch 2 become non-conductive. As a result, the circuit breaker A1 can avoid accidents caused by arcs generated in the circuit M1. Furthermore, the circuit breaker A1 can avoid failure of the power generator 30 or the power converter 40 due to arcs generated in the circuit M1. In addition, since the circuit breaker A1 controls the circuit breaker 10 (specifically the first switch 1 and the second switch 2) according to the type of arc, the lifespan of the circuit breaker 10 can be extended.

[0062] The energy storage unit 18 is either a capacitor or a secondary battery. This allows the circuit breaker A1 to be smaller when the energy storage unit 18 is a capacitor compared to when it is a secondary battery. Furthermore, when the energy storage unit 18 is a secondary battery, the control unit 14 can operate for a longer period than when the energy storage unit 18 is a capacitor.

[0063] The circuit breaker A1 further includes a notification unit 16, which notifies at least one of the following: the status of the circuit breaker 10, the type of arc generated in the circuit M1, and the operating status of the sensor 11. This allows the circuit breaker A1 to inform the user or business operator of its status. For example, the circuit breaker A1 can inform a communication terminal owned by the user or business operator of its status.

[0064] The circuit breaker A1 further includes a communication unit 15, which transmits at least one of the following to the communication device 60: the state of the circuit breaker 10, the type of arc generated in the circuit M1, and the operating state of the sensor 11. This allows the circuit breaker A1 to inform, for example, a communication device 60 owned by the user of its state.

[0065] The circuit breaker system C1 is equipped with multiple circuit breaker devices A1. Each of the multiple circuit breaker devices A1 is configured to communicate with one another. This simplifies the installation process of the circuit breaker system C1 and allows for independent operation. Furthermore, because the multiple circuit breaker devices A1 in the circuit breaker system C1 are interconnected, accidents caused by arcs generated in the first circuit can be avoided. Additionally, because the multiple circuit breaker devices A1 in the circuit breaker system C1 are interconnected, failures of the power generator 30 or the power converter 40 caused by arcs generated in the first circuit can be avoided.

[0066] Furthermore, in the interruption system C1, for example, as shown in Figure 2, when multiple circuits M1 are concentrated and connected to the power converter 40, the overall voltage (total voltage) in the multiple circuits M1 decreases, and arc current may flow through the sensors 11 (for example, the current detection unit 12) of each of the multiple interruption devices A1. Therefore, in the interruption system C1, since the multiple interruption devices A1 are linked, the accuracy of arc detection can be improved, and series arcs and parallel arcs can be eliminated.

[0067] (4) Variations The pair of input terminals 1a and 2a in the circuit breaker 10 may also function as a pair of power terminals 6 and 7. In other words, the pair of power terminals 6 and 7 may be shared with the pair of input terminals 1a and 2a. In this case, input terminal 1a functions as power terminal 6, and input terminal 2a functions as power terminal 7. That is, the first positive wire L11 is connected to input terminal 1a, and the first negative wire L21 is connected to input terminal 2a. Furthermore, when the pair of input terminals 1a and 2a also function as a pair of power terminals 6 and 7, the DC / DC converter 17 is electrically connected to the pair of input terminals 1a and 2a. This reduces the number of components in the circuit breaker A1.

[0068] The communication unit 15 is configured to communicate wirelessly with the communication device 60, but it may also be configured to communicate via wired connection with the communication device 60. Furthermore, the communication unit 15 is configured to communicate with the communication device 60, but it does not have to be configured to communicate with the communication device 60. In other words, the communication device 60 is not required, and the communication unit 15 only needs to be configured to communicate with other circuit breaker A1.

[0069] The communication device 60 is electrically connected to the distribution board 50, but it does not have to be electrically connected to the distribution board 50. The communication device 60 may be, for example, a communication device (communication terminal) such as a smartphone or tablet terminal.

[0070] The communication device 60 is configured to display information transmitted from at least one of the multiple blocking devices A1 on the display unit, but is not limited to this configuration. The communication device 60 may also be configured to operate a notification unit (not shown) based on information transmitted from at least one of the multiple blocking devices A1.

[0071] The notification unit 16 is configured to communicate with a public wireless communication network, but is not limited to this configuration. The notification unit 16 may be configured to output light. If the notification unit 16 is configured to output light, it may be, for example, an LED. The notification unit 16 may also be configured to output sound. If the notification unit 16 is configured to output sound, it may be, for example, a buzzer.

[0072] The energy storage unit 18 is configured to store DC power from the power generation device 30, but it may also be configured to store DC power from other power generation devices (power generation devices other than power generation device 30).

[0073] Each of the multiple blockers A1 is configured to communicate with each other wirelessly, but may also be configured to communicate with each other via wired connections.

[0074] Each of the multiple circuit breakers A1 is used in a solar power generation system, but it may also be used in systems other than solar power generation systems. For example, each of the multiple circuit breakers A1 may be used in a wind power generation system, etc.

[0075] Multiple solar panels 3 are electrically connected in series and parallel, but for example, they may be electrically connected in series or electrically connected in parallel.

[0076] The power generation device 30 is a solar power generation device, but it may be a power generation device other than a solar power generation device. For example, the power generation device 30 may be a wind power generation device or the like.

[0077] (Embodiment 2) The circuit breaker A2 according to Embodiment 2 (see Figure 3) differs from the circuit breaker A1 according to Embodiment 1 (see Figure 1) in that it comprises multiple circuit breakers 10 and multiple sensors 11. Regarding the circuit breaker A2 according to Embodiment 2, components similar to those in the circuit breaker A1 according to Embodiment 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals and their descriptions are omitted.

[0078] The circuit breaker A2 according to Embodiment 2 will be described below with reference to Figures 3 and 4.

[0079] The circuit breaker A2 is used in a centralized solar power generation system. A "centralized solar power generation system" refers to a solar power generation system in which multiple power generation devices 30 are connected to a power converter 40 via a junction box 70 (see Figure 4).

[0080] As shown in Figure 3, the circuit breaker A2 is located inside a junction box 70 provided in the circuit (hereinafter referred to as the "second circuit") between the multiple (three in the example in Figure 3) power generators 30 and the power converter 40 (see Figure 4), and is configured to interrupt the second circuit. The multiple power generators 30 include a first power generator 30A, a second power generator 30B, and a third power generator 30C.

[0081] The circuit breaker A2 further comprises a plurality of (three in the example in Figure 3) circuit breakers 10 and a plurality of (three in the example in Figure 3) sensors 11. The plurality of circuit breakers 10 include a first circuit breaker 10A, a second circuit breaker 10B, and a third circuit breaker 10C. The plurality of sensors 11 include a first sensor 11A, a second sensor 11B, and a third sensor 11C.

[0082] Furthermore, the circuit breaker A2 is further equipped with multiple (three in the example in Figure 3) pairs of power terminals (a pair of power terminals 6A, 7A, a pair of power terminals 6B, 7B, and a pair of power terminals 6C, 7C) and multiple (three in the example in Figure 3) pairs of output terminals (a pair of output terminals 8A, 9A, a pair of output terminals 8B, 9B, and a pair of output terminals 8C, 9C).

[0083] A pair of power terminals 6A and 7A are electrically connected to the first power generator 30A via a pair of wires. Furthermore, the pair of power terminals 6A and 7A are electrically connected to the first circuit breaker 10A. More specifically, power terminal 6A is electrically connected to the first switch 1 of the first circuit breaker 10A. Power terminal 7A is electrically connected to the second switch 2 of the first circuit breaker 10A. Additionally, the pair of power terminals 6A and 7A are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. For example, the pair of power terminals 6A and 7A are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17 via the first diode. Specifically, power terminal 6A is electrically connected to the anode of the first diode, and the cathode of the first diode is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. Power terminal 7A is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17.

[0084] A pair of power terminals 6B and 7B are electrically connected to the second power generator 30B via a pair of wires. Furthermore, the pair of power terminals 6B and 7B are electrically connected to the second circuit breaker 10B. More specifically, power terminal 6B is electrically connected to the first switch 1 of the second circuit breaker 10B. Power terminal 7B is electrically connected to the second switch 2 of the second circuit breaker 10B. Additionally, the pair of power terminals 6B and 7B are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. For example, the pair of power terminals 6B and 7B are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17 via a second diode. Specifically, power terminal 6B is electrically connected to the anode of the second diode, and the cathode of the second diode is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. Power terminal 7B is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17.

[0085] A pair of power terminals 6C and 7C are electrically connected to the third power generator 30C via a pair of wires. Furthermore, the pair of power terminals 6C and 7C are electrically connected to the third circuit breaker 10C. More specifically, power terminal 6C is electrically connected to the first switch 1 of the third circuit breaker 10C. Power terminal 7C is electrically connected to the second switch 2 of the third circuit breaker 10C. Additionally, the pair of power terminals 6C and 7C are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. For example, the pair of power terminals 6C and 7C are electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17 via a third diode. Specifically, power terminal 6C is electrically connected to the anode of the third diode, and the cathode of the third diode is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17. Power terminal 7C is electrically connected to the DC / DC converter 17.

[0086] The first circuit breaker 10A is electrically connected to the first sensor 11A and the control unit 14, respectively. The second circuit breaker 10B is electrically connected to the second sensor 11B and the control unit 14, respectively. The third circuit breaker 10C is electrically connected to the third sensor 11C and the control unit 14, respectively.

[0087] The first sensor 11A is electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8A and 9A and to the control unit 14, respectively. The second sensor 11B is electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8B and 9B and to the control unit 14, respectively. The third sensor 11C is electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8C and 9C and to the control unit 14, respectively.

[0088] A pair of output terminals 8A and 9A are electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8B and 9B via a pair of wires. A pair of output terminals 8C and 9C are electrically connected to a pair of output terminals 8B and 9B via a pair of wires. A pair of output terminals 8B and 9B are electrically connected to a power converter 40 via a pair of wires.

[0089] The control unit 14 is configured to control multiple circuit breakers 10 based on the detection result of at least one of the multiple sensors 11.

[0090] For example, if the control unit 14 detects an arc occurring in the second circuit (for example, a parallel arc occurring in the circuit between the first power generator 30A and the junction box 70) based on the detection result of the first sensor 11A, it controls the multiple circuit breakers 10 so that the first circuit breaker 10A becomes non-conductive, and the second circuit breaker 10B and the third circuit breaker 10C each become conductive.

[0091] Furthermore, if the control unit 14 detects an arc occurring in the second circuit (for example, a parallel arc occurring in the circuit between the junction box 70 and the power converter 40) based on the detection result of the first sensor 11A, it controls the multiple circuit breakers 10 so that each of the multiple circuit breakers 10 becomes non-conductive.

[0092] Therefore, circuit breaker A2 can prevent accidents caused by arcs (such as parallel arcs) generated in the second circuit. Furthermore, circuit breaker A2 can prevent failures of the power generator 30 or the power converter 40 caused by arcs generated in the second circuit.

[0093] Furthermore, the control unit 14 is configured to control multiple circuit breakers 10 and multiple sensors 11. Therefore, in the circuit breaker A2, if the power value of the DC power from the power generator 30 (specifically, the second DC power from the DC / DC converter 17) is less than a threshold, the control unit 14 operates using the DC power (third DC power) stored in the energy storage unit 18, allowing it to operate independently.

[0094] The DC / DC converter 17 has a pair of power terminals 6A, 7A and a pair of power terminals 6 Although it is electrically connected to B, 7B and a pair of power terminals 6C, 7C, it may also be electrically connected to any one of the following: a pair of power terminals 6A, 7A, a pair of power terminals 6B, 7B, or a pair of power terminals 6C, 7C. In short, the DC / DC converter 17 only needs to be electrically connected to at least one of the following: a pair of power terminals 6A, 7A, a pair of power terminals 6B, 7B, and a pair of power terminals 6C, 7C.

[0095] However, if the DC / DC converter 17 is electrically connected to a pair of power terminals 6A, 7A, a pair of power terminals 6B, 7B, and a pair of power terminals 6C, 7C, as shown in Figure 3, the circuit breaker A2 can secure a more stable operating power supply and thus be able to operate more independently.

[0096] Furthermore, the circuit breaker A2 comprises one DC / DC converter 17 and one energy storage unit 18, but it may also comprise multiple (for example, three) DC / DC converters 17 and multiple (for example, three) energy storage units 18.

[0097] (Aspect) This specification discloses the following aspects:

[0098] The circuit breaker (A1; A2) according to the first embodiment comprises a pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A~6C, 7C), a circuit breaker (10), a sensor (11), a control unit (14), and a power storage unit (18). The pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A~6C, 7C) are electrically connected to a power generator (30) that outputs DC power. The circuit breaker (10) is installed in the circuit (M1) between the power generator (30) and the power converter (40), and is electrically connected to the pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A~6C, 7C). The sensor (11) detects the current from the power generator (30) when the circuit breaker (10) is conducting. The control unit (14) controls the circuit breaker (10) so that it becomes non-conducting based on the detection result of the sensor (11). The energy storage unit (18) stores at least DC power from the power generator (30). The control unit (14) operates using DC power if the power value of the DC power from the power generator (30) is equal to or greater than a threshold. If the power value is less than the threshold, the control unit (14) operates using the DC power stored in the energy storage unit (18).

[0099] According to this embodiment, construction work can be simplified, and it can operate independently.

[0100] In the second embodiment of the circuit breaker (A1; A2), the sensor (11) further detects a voltage from the power generator (30) when the circuit breaker (10) is in a conducting state. The control unit (14) controls the circuit breaker (10) to a non-conducting state based on the detection result of at least one of the voltage detected by the sensor (11) and the current detected by the sensor (11).

[0101] According to this embodiment, the accuracy of arc detection can be improved. Furthermore, according to this embodiment, arc detection can be accelerated, and the circuit breaker (10) can be immediately switched from a conductive state to a non-conductive state when an arc occurs.

[0102] The circuit breaker (A1; A2) according to the third embodiment, in the first or second embodiment, has a circuit breaker (10) comprising a first switch (1) and a second switch (2). The first switch (1) is electrically connected to one of a pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A~6C, 7C) (6; 6A~6C). The second switch (2) is electrically connected to the other of a pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A~6C, 7C) (7; 7A~7C). The control unit (14) determines the type of arc generated in the circuit (M1) based on the detection result of the sensor (11). The types of arcs include series arcs and parallel arcs. If the type of arc is a series arc, the control unit (14) controls the circuit breaker (10) so that at least one of the first switch (1) and the second switch (2) becomes non-conductive. The control unit (14) controls the circuit breaker (10) so that both the first switch (1) and the second switch (2) become non-conductive when the type of arc is a parallel arc.

[0103] According to this embodiment, it is possible to avoid accidents caused by arcing.

[0104] In the fourth embodiment, the circuit breaker (A1; A2) is such that in any one of the first to third embodiments, the energy storage unit (18) is a capacitor or a secondary battery.

[0105] According to this embodiment, when the energy storage unit (18) is a capacitor, it is possible to make it smaller than when the storage battery (18) is a secondary battery. Also, according to this embodiment, when the energy storage unit (18) is a secondary battery, the control unit (14) can be operated for a longer period of time than when the energy storage unit (18) is a capacitor.

[0106] The circuit breaker (A1; A2) according to the fifth embodiment has a pair of input terminals (1a, 2a) in any one of the first to fourth embodiments. The pair of input terminals (1a, 2a) also function as a pair of power terminals (6, 7; 6A, 7A to 6C, 7C).

[0107] According to this embodiment, the number of parts can be reduced.

[0108] The circuit breaker (A1; A2) according to the sixth embodiment further comprises a notification unit (16) that notifies at least one of the following in any one of the first to fifth embodiments: the state of the circuit breaker (10), the type of arc generated in the circuit (M1), and the operating state of the sensor (11).

[0109] According to this embodiment, the status of the circuit breaker (A1; A2) can be communicated to the user or business operator.

[0110] The circuit breaker (A1; A2) according to the seventh embodiment further comprises a communication unit (15) capable of communicating with an external device (60) in any one of the first to sixth embodiments. The communication unit (15) transmits to the external device (60) at least one of the following: the state of the circuit breaker (10), the type of arc generated in the circuit (M1), and the operating state of the sensor (11).

[0111] According to this embodiment, the status of the blocking devices (A1; A2) can be communicated, for example, to a communication device (60) owned by the user or a communication terminal owned by the business operator.

[0112] The circuit breaker (A2) according to the eighth embodiment comprises a plurality of circuit breakers (10) and a plurality of sensors (11) in any one of the first to seventh embodiments. The plurality of sensors (11) correspond one-to-one with the plurality of circuit breakers (10). The control unit (14) controls the plurality of circuit breakers (10) based on the detection result of at least one of the plurality of sensors (11).

[0113] According to this embodiment, it is possible to avoid accidents caused by arcing.

[0114] The ninth embodiment of the blocking system (C1) comprises a plurality of blocking devices (A1) according to any one of the first to seventh embodiments. Each of the plurality of blocking devices (A1) is configured to communicate with one another.

[0115] According to this embodiment, construction work can be simplified, and it can operate independently. [Explanation of symbols]

[0116] 1. Switch 1 1a Input terminal 2. Second switch 2a Input terminal 6 Power terminal 6A~6C power supply terminal 7 Power terminal 7A~7C power supply terminal 10 Circuit breakers 11 sensors 14 Control Unit 15 Communications Department 16 Notification Department 18. Energy Storage Unit 30 Power generation equipment 40 Power converter 60. Communication equipment (external devices) A1~A2 Circuit Breaker C1 Blocking System M1 electrical circuit

Claims

1. A pair of power terminals electrically connected to a generator that outputs DC power, A circuit breaker is provided in the circuit between the power generation device and the power conversion device and is electrically connected to the pair of power terminals, A sensor that detects the current from the power generation device when the circuit breaker is in a conductive state, A control unit that controls the circuit breaker so that it becomes non-conductive based on the detection result of the sensor, It comprises at least a power storage unit that stores the DC power from the power generation device, The control unit, If the power value of the DC power from the power generator is equal to or greater than the threshold, the device operates using the DC power. If the power value is less than the threshold, the unit operates using the DC power stored in the energy storage unit. Circuit breaker.

2. The sensor further detects the voltage from the power generation device when the circuit breaker is in a conductive state. The control unit controls the circuit breaker so that it becomes non-conductive, based on the detection result of at least one of the voltage detected by the sensor and the current detected by the sensor. The circuit breaker according to claim 1.

3. The aforementioned circuit breaker is A first switch is electrically connected to one of the pair of power terminals, It has a second switch which is electrically connected to the other power terminal of the pair of power terminals, The control unit determines the type of arc generated in the circuit based on the detection result of the sensor, The aforementioned arc types include series arcs and parallel arcs. The control unit, If the type of arc is the series arc, the circuit breaker is controlled so that at least one of the first switch and the second switch becomes non-conductive. If the type of arc is the parallel arc, the circuit breaker is controlled so that both the first switch and the second switch are in a non-conductive state. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

4. The energy storage unit is a capacitor or a secondary battery. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

5. The circuit breaker has a pair of input terminals, The aforementioned pair of input terminals also function as the aforementioned pair of power terminals. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

6. The system further includes a notification unit that notifies at least one of the following: the state of the circuit breaker, the type of arc generated in the circuit, and the operating state of the sensor. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

7. It is further equipped with a communication unit that can communicate with external devices, The communication unit transmits to the external device at least one of the following: the state of the circuit breaker, the type of arc generated in the circuit, and the operating state of the sensor. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

8. Multiple circuit breakers, The system comprises a plurality of sensors that correspond one-to-one with the plurality of circuit breakers, The control unit controls the plurality of circuit breakers based on the detection result of at least one of the plurality of sensors. The circuit breaker according to claim 1 or claim 2.

9. A plurality of circuit breakers according to claim 1 or claim 2 are provided, Each of the multiple blocking devices is configured to communicate with one another. Shutdown system.

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