Switching systems, switching units, sensor adapters, and distribution board systems

Abstract

To hardly receive a limitation of a housing space in addition of a detection function.SOLUTION: A switch system 1 comprises: a sensor adaptor 2; and a switch unit 3 that is detachably attached to the sensor adaptor 2. The sensor adaptor 2 includes: a first cable run L1; a detection part 21; a determination part 23; an output part 24; and a first device body 20. The detection part 21 detects a physical amount in regard to electricity in the first cable run L1. The determination part 23 determines the presence / absence of an abnormality on the basis of the physical amount. The output part 24 outputs an interruption signal S1 to the switch unit 3 in accordance with a determination result. The switch unit 3 includes: a second cable run L2; an input part 31; a switch part 32; and a second device body 30. The interruption signal S1 is input into the input part 31. The switch part 32 switches the second cable run L2 from a conduction state to an interruption state in accordance with the interruption signal S1. The second device body 30 is coupled to the first device body 20 in an aspect that the interruption signal S1 can be transmitted to the input part 31 from the output part 24.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present disclosure generally relates to a switching system, a switching unit, a sensor adapter, and a distribution board system. More particularly, the present disclosure relates to a switching system, a switching unit, a sensor adapter, and a distribution board system that have a function of opening contacts in response to detection of an abnormality. [Background technology]

[0002] The circuit breaker described in Patent Document 1 is taken as an example of a conventional circuit breaker. The circuit breaker described in Patent Document 1 (hereinafter referred to as the conventional example) includes an opening mechanism that interrupts an electric circuit connecting a power source and a load, and an arc detection circuit that detects an arc short circuit that occurs in the electric circuit and activates the opening mechanism. The arc detection circuit also includes a current detection circuit, a voltage detection circuit, a microcomputer, a tripping circuit, an open / closed state detection means, a test circuit, and a power supply circuit for driving each of the above circuits. The power supply circuit generates a DC output voltage from the AC voltage supplied from the power source and supplies it to each circuit. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2003-317598 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, even if an attempt is made to add a detection circuit (detection unit) to a circuit breaker to detect accidents (abnormalities) other than arc short circuit accidents, such as a ground fault or a cord short circuit accident, it may be difficult due to restrictions on the accommodation space of the circuit breaker, etc.

[0005] The present disclosure has been made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and aims to provide an opening and closing system, an opening and closing unit, a sensor adapter, and a distribution board system that are less subject to storage space constraints when adding detection functions. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A switching system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body accommodates or holds the second electrical path, the input unit, and the switching unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The first electric circuit includes electric circuits of multiple phases, and the detection unit is configured to be able to detect, as the physical quantity, a current flowing through each of the electric circuits of the multiple phases. A switching system according to another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body houses or holds the second electrical circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The opening / closing system includes a plurality of the sensor adapters. The plurality of sensor adapters differ from one another in the types of abnormality that the determination unit determines. The opening / closing unit is selectively attached to any one of the plurality of sensor adapters. A switching system according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body accommodates or holds the second electric path, the input part, and the switching part, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output part to the input part. The switching unit further has a short-circuit detection part disposed on the second electric path for detecting a short-circuit current. The switching part opens the contacts when the short-circuit current is detected by the short-circuit detection part. A switching system according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body houses or holds the second electrical path, the input unit, and the switching unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that allows the interruption signal to be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The sensor adapter further has a primary side terminal arranged at one end of the first electrical path and a secondary side terminal arranged at the other end of the first electrical path. The switching unit further has a unit terminal arranged at one end of the second electrical path. The primary side terminal is configured to be connected to a terminal of a primary side power supply unit. The unit terminal is configured to be connected to the secondary side terminal. The switching system has a structure that prevents the unit terminal from being connected to the terminal of the power supply unit. A switching system according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body accommodates or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the switching unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The sensor adapter is disposed in the distribution board in a manner that the first electric circuit is fixed to an electric circuit bar of the distribution board. A switching system according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second housing accommodates or holds the second electrical circuit, the input unit, and the switching unit, and is connected to the first housing in a manner that allows the shutdown signal to be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The specific circuit is one specific branch circuit among a plurality of branch circuits. The sensor adapter is configured to allow multiple switching units to be simultaneously attached, and has multiple first electrical circuits that correspond one-to-one to the multiple branch circuits, respectively, and multiple detection units that detect the physical quantities in the multiple first electrical circuits. The second electrical circuit of the switching unit attached to the sensor adapter is electrically connected to a corresponding one of the multiple first electrical circuits, thereby forming part of the specific branch circuit. The determination unit individually determines the presence or absence of an abnormality for each of the multiple branch circuits. The output unit outputs the shutdown signal to the switching unit corresponding to a branch circuit among the multiple branch circuits that is determined to have an abnormality. A switching system according to yet another aspect of the present disclosure includes a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter. The sensor adapter includes a first electrical circuit, a detection unit, a determination unit, an output unit, and a first housing. The detection unit detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit. The determination unit determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit outputs a disconnection signal to the opening / closing unit in response to the determination result of the determination unit. The first housing accommodates or holds the first electrical circuit, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit. The opening / closing unit includes a second electrical circuit, an input unit, a switching unit, and a second housing. The second electrical circuit constitutes part of a specific circuit. The disconnection signal is input to the input unit. The switching unit switches the second electrical circuit from a conductive state to a disconnected state by opening a contact inserted in the second electrical circuit in response to the disconnection signal input to the input unit. The second body houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the switching unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit. The first electric circuit includes three electric circuits corresponding to a single-phase three-wire system. The switching unit further has a switching mechanism that can switch, in response to a predetermined operation, the connection mode of the second electric circuit to the first electric circuit between a first connection mode in which the second electric circuit is electrically connected to the L1-phase and L2-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a first effective value, and a second connection mode in which the second electric circuit is electrically connected to the L1-phase and N-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a second effective value different from the first effective value.

[0007] The opening / closing unit according to one aspect of the present disclosure is Either The present invention is applicable to an opening and closing system, wherein the opening and closing unit is detachably attached to the sensor adapter.

[0008] The sensor adapter according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes: Either The sensor adapter is detachably attached to the opening / closing unit.

[0009] The distribution board system according to one aspect of the present disclosure includes the above Either The system includes a switching system and a distribution board. A plurality of the sensor adapters and a plurality of the switching units are provided. The plurality of sensor adapters are arranged in the distribution board and fixed to electrical wiring bars of the distribution board. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] The present disclosure has the advantage that adding a detection function is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0011] [Figure 1] Fig. 1A is a schematic diagram of a sensor adapter and an opening / closing unit included in an opening / closing system according to one embodiment, and Fig. 1B is a block diagram of a control unit included in the sensor adapter. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a schematic front view of a distribution board system according to one embodiment. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a schematic configuration diagram of a distribution board, a sensor adapter, and an opening / closing unit in a first modification of the distribution board system. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a schematic configuration diagram of a distribution board, a sensor adapter, and an opening / closing unit in a second modification of the distribution board system. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a schematic configuration diagram of a distribution board, a sensor adapter, and an opening / closing unit in a third modification of the distribution board system. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a schematic front view of a fourth modification of the distribution board system. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0012] (overview) The following describes the opening / closing system, the sensor adapter applied to the opening / closing system, the opening / closing unit applied to the opening / closing system, and the distribution board system according to each of the embodiments and modifications, with reference to the drawings. The drawings described in the following embodiments and modifications are schematic, and the ratios of the sizes and thicknesses of the components in the drawings do not necessarily reflect the actual dimensional ratios.

[0013] As shown in FIG. 1A , an opening and closing system 1 according to one embodiment includes a sensor adapter 2 and an opening and closing unit 3 that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter 2. While FIG. 1A illustrates one sensor adapter 2 and one opening and closing unit 3 for convenience, the number of sensor adapters 2 and the number of opening and closing units 3 included in the opening and closing system 1 are not particularly limited. The opening and closing system 1 may include one or more sensor adapters 2 and one or more opening and closing units 3. It is assumed that each opening and closing unit 3 is detachably attached to any sensor adapter 2, but this is not limited thereto. For example, a certain opening and closing unit 3 may be detachably attached only to a specific sensor adapter 2.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 2, the switching system 1 may be applied to, for example, a distribution board 4. In other words, a distribution board system 100 (see FIG. 2) according to one embodiment includes the switching system 1 and the distribution board 4. A plurality of sensor adapters 2 and a plurality of switching units 3 are provided. FIG. 2 shows a schematic front view of the distribution board 4 with the door of the cabinet 40 open. In FIG. 2, one switching unit 3 is attached to each sensor adapter 2. In FIG. 2, ten pairs, each consisting of one sensor adapter 2 and one switching unit 3, are installed in the distribution board 4. It is assumed that the distribution board 4 is a residential distribution board installed in a residential facility (a detached house or an apartment building). However, the distribution board 4 is not limited to a residential distribution board and may be a distribution board installed in a non-residential facility (a store, office, school, welfare facility, commercial complex, hospital, factory, outdoor facility, or the like).

[0015] As shown in FIG. 1A, the sensor adapter 2 has a first electrical circuit L1, a detection unit 21, a determination unit 23, an output unit 24, and a first housing 20. The detection unit 21 detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit L1. The determination unit 23 determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit 24 outputs a shutoff signal S1 to the switching unit 3 in accordance with the determination result of the determination unit 23. The first housing 20 houses or holds the first electrical circuit L1, the detection unit 21, the determination unit 23, and the output unit 24.

[0016] When the sensor adapter 2 is attached to an electrical circuit bar 41 (conductive bar) of a distribution board 4 as shown in FIG. 2 , the first electrical circuit L1 may constitute a part of one specific branch circuit B1 among multiple branch circuits B1. Electrical appliances (loads) used in the home are connected to each branch circuit B1, and the electrical appliances receive power through the corresponding branch circuit B1. The "electrical physical quantity" referred to here is a physical quantity, such as current or voltage, that can be used by the determination unit 23 to determine whether or not there is an abnormality, such as a short-circuit current, an overload current, a leakage current, an overvoltage, or an arc discharge. In particular, the "electrical physical quantity" is assumed to be the AC current or AC voltage in the power supply line (branch circuit B1) that supplies AC power to the electrical appliance (load).

[0017] As shown in FIG. 1A , the switching unit 3 includes a second electrical circuit L2, an input unit 31, a switching unit 32, and a second housing 30. The second electrical circuit L2 constitutes a part of a specific circuit C1. A disconnection signal S1 is input to the input unit 31. The switching unit 32 switches the second electrical circuit L2 from a conductive state to a disconnection state by opening a contact P1 inserted in the second electrical circuit L2 in response to the disconnection signal S1 input to the input unit 31. The second housing 30 houses or holds the second electrical circuit L2, the input unit 31, and the switching unit 32, and is connected to the first housing 20 in a manner that allows the disconnection signal S1 to be transmitted from the output unit 24 to the input unit 31. In this embodiment, as an example, it is assumed that the transmission of the disconnection signal S1 is performed by contacting a terminal of the output unit 24 with a terminal of the input unit 31 to establish an electrical connection and transmit the signal as an electrical signal. That is, in this embodiment, as an example, the second body 30 is connected to the first body 20 in a manner that the input section 31 and the output section 24 are electrically connected.

[0018] When the opening / closing unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2 attached to the electrical circuit bar 41 of the distribution board 4 as shown in FIG. 2, the second electrical circuit L2 may form part of one specific branch circuit B1 among the multiple branch circuits B1.

[0019] According to the above opening and closing system 1, since it is separated into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3, adding a function to detect abnormalities and the like is less likely to be restricted by the accommodation space (second housing 30) of the opening and closing unit 3. As a result, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that adding a detection function is less likely to be restricted by the accommodation space.

[0020] An opening / closing unit 3 according to one embodiment is applied to the opening / closing system 1. The opening / closing unit 3 is detachably attached to the sensor adapter 2. In this case, an opening / closing unit 3 can be provided that is less subject to storage space restrictions when adding detection functions.

[0021] Furthermore, a sensor adapter 2 according to one embodiment is applied to an opening and closing system 1. The sensor adapter 2 is detachably attached to the opening and closing unit 3. In this case, it is possible to provide a sensor adapter 2 that is less subject to storage space restrictions when adding detection functions.

[0022] (detail) (1) Overall structure A distribution board system 100 including a switching system 1 and a distribution board 4 according to this embodiment will be described in detail below with reference to FIGS. 1A, 1B, and 2. The distribution board system 100 is assumed to be applied to a residential facility such as a detached house. Therefore, the switching system 1 and the distribution board 4 are installed within the residential facility. Hereinafter, a person who performs installation work, expansion work, replacement work, or various setting change work related to the distribution board system 100 may be simply referred to as an "operator."

[0023] (2) Distribution board 2, the distribution board 4 includes a cabinet 40, three electrical circuit bars 41, a main breaker 42, and a plurality of branch circuits B1. The distribution board 4 also includes a power meter, a current detection unit that detects the current flowing through each branch circuit B1, and the like. The cabinet 40 houses or holds the three electrical circuit bars 41, the main breaker 42, the plurality of branch circuits B1, the power meter, and the plurality of current detection units, and the like.

[0024] The main breaker 42 has three primary terminals 421, three secondary terminals 422, and three contacts P0, each connected to an electrical path between a corresponding primary terminal 421 and secondary terminal 422. The main breaker 42 further has an operating lever for turning the contact P0 on or off. The main breaker 42 also has three main circuit breakers 423. The main circuit breakers 423 open the contact P0 when they detect an abnormal condition. An example of an abnormal condition is the occurrence of a ground fault or an overload current.

[0025] A service line W1 (see FIG. 2) connected to the system power supply is electrically connected to each primary terminal 421 of the main breaker 42. As a result, the primary terminal 421 of the main breaker 42 is electrically connected to the system power supply. In this embodiment, a single-phase three-wire system is assumed as the power distribution system. Therefore, the primary terminal 421 of the main breaker 42 is electrically connected to the single-phase three-wire service line W1 connected to the system power supply.

[0026] A main line W2 (see FIG. 2) is electrically connected to each secondary terminal 422 of the main breaker 42. In this embodiment, a single-phase three-wire system is assumed as the power distribution system. The main line W2 may include three electrical circuit bars 41 (see FIG. 2) corresponding to a conductive bar of a first voltage pole (L1 phase), a conductive bar of a second voltage pole (L2 phase), and a conductive bar of a neutral pole (N phase).

[0027] Although detailed description is omitted, for example, a current transformer is provided as a sensor for detecting the current flowing through the main line W2, and the detection result of the current transformer is input to a watt-hour meter such as a smart meter.

[0028] In this disclosure, a "branch circuit" refers to an individual circuit branched off from the trunk line W2 (electrical circuit bar 41). As will be described later, a portion of each branch circuit B1 is configured by a first electrical circuit L1 of the sensor adapter 2 provided in the switching system 1 and a second electrical circuit L2 of the switching unit 3. The primary sides of the multiple branch circuits B1 are electrically connected to the trunk line W2. The secondary sides of the multiple branch circuits B1 can be electrically connected to multiple electrical devices in the home. As a result, each electrical device is electrically connected to the system power supply via the corresponding branch circuit B1. The multiple electrical devices are load devices that consume power, and can include air conditioning equipment, lighting equipment, etc.

[0029] The multiple current detectors are installed to detect the currents flowing through the multiple branch circuits B1, respectively. The multiple current detectors may include, for example, current transformers (CTs) or Rogowski coils. The detection results of the multiple current detectors are input to a power meter via multiple cables.

[0030] For convenience, the following description may use the (imaginary) up, down, left, and right directions in Figure 2, which shows the distribution board 4 attached to a wall or the like inside a house, to define the directions of the sensor adapter 2, opening / closing unit 3, distribution board 4, etc. However, there is no intention to limit the usage of the sensor adapter 2, opening / closing unit 3, distribution board 4, etc. to the usage shown in Figure 2.

[0031] (3) Opening and closing system The opening and closing system 1 comprises one or more (ten in Figure 2) sensor adapters 2 and one or more (ten in Figure 2) opening and closing units 3 that can be detachably attached to any of the one or more sensor adapters 2.

[0032] Hereinafter, one of the plurality of sensor adapters 2 will be described with reference to FIGS. 1A and 1B.

[0033] The sensor adapter 2 has a first electrical path L1, a detection unit 21, a control unit 22, a power supply circuit 27, an output unit 24, a first body 20, a primary side terminal 201, and a first electrical path connection unit A1.

[0034] The first electric circuit L1 includes electric circuits of multiple phases. As an example in the present embodiment, the first electric circuit L1 includes electric circuits of two phases corresponding to the L1 phase and the N phase, in accordance with the fact that the power distribution system on the power supply unit 5 side of the distribution board 4 is a single-phase three-wire system. Specifically, the first electric circuit L1 includes an electric circuit L11 electrically connected to the L1-phase electric circuit bar 41 and an electric circuit L12 electrically connected to the N-phase electric circuit bar 41. That is, for example, AC power with an effective value of 100 V between the L1 phase and the N phase passes through the first electric circuit L1. Each of the electric circuits L11 and L12 may be configured with one or more conductive members.

[0035] The first electric circuit L1 includes an electric circuit L11 electrically connected to the L1-phase electric circuit bar 41 and an electric circuit electrically connected to the L2-phase electric circuit bar 41. For example, AC power with an effective value of 200 V between the L1 and L2 phases may pass through the first electric circuit L1. In addition, in the present disclosure, the power distribution system on the power supply unit 5 side is a single-phase three-wire system, which is merely an example. For example, a single-phase two-wire system, a three-phase three-wire system, or a three-phase four-wire system may also be used. In this case, the first electric circuit L1 may include two-phase electric circuits corresponding to the L and N phases, three-phase electric circuits corresponding to the R, S, and T phases, or four-phase electric circuits corresponding to the R, S, T, and N phases.

[0036] Primary side terminal 201 is disposed at one end (primary side end, upper end in FIG. 2) of first electrical path L1. Primary side terminal 201 is configured to be connected to terminal 501 (not shown in FIG. 2, see FIG. 3) of primary side power supply unit 5 (see FIG. 2). In this embodiment, power supply unit 5 is assumed to be electrical path bar 41 of distribution board 4, but is not limited to electrical path bar 41 as long as it is a portion on the power supply source side for sensor adapter 2.

[0037] In this embodiment, two primary terminals 201 are provided. One primary terminal 201 is disposed at one end of the electric circuit L11, and the other primary terminal 201 is disposed at one end of the electric circuit L12. Each primary terminal 201 is held by the first body 20 so that a portion of it is exposed from the upper end of the first body 20. As an example, each primary terminal 201 is configured as a plug-in terminal having an insertion groove and connected by removably inserting the tip of a branch bar of the corresponding electric circuit bar 41 into the insertion groove.

[0038] The first electric circuit connection portion A1 is detachably connected to a second electric circuit connection portion A2 (described later) of the switching unit 3. The connection between the first electric circuit connection portion A1 and the second electric circuit connection portion A2 electrically connects the first electric circuit L1 and the second electric circuit L2 of the switching unit 3. The first electric circuit connection portion A1 includes a secondary side terminal 202. The secondary side terminal 202 is disposed at the other end (secondary side end, lower end in FIG. 2 ) of the first electric circuit L1. In this embodiment, two secondary side terminals 202 are provided. One secondary side terminal 202 is disposed at the other end of the electric circuit L11, and the other secondary side terminal 202 is disposed at the other end of the electric circuit L12. Each secondary side terminal 202 is held by the first body 20 so that a portion thereof is exposed from the lower end of the first body 20.

[0039] Each secondary terminal 202 is configured as a plate-like terminal. On the other hand, two unit terminals 301 (described later) of the second electric circuit connection part A2 of the opening and closing unit 3 are configured as plug-in terminals each having an insertion groove, and are connected by inserting the tip of the corresponding secondary terminal 202 into the insertion groove in a removable manner.

[0040] The detection unit 21 detects an electrical physical quantity (here, a current) in the first electric circuit L1. As shown in FIG. 1A , the detection unit 21 has two detection circuits 211 and 212 (including detection elements such as resistors) for detecting an overcurrent (overload current or short-circuit current). The detection circuit 211 is arranged to detect the current flowing through the electric circuit L11 as the physical quantity. The detection circuit 212 is arranged to detect the current flowing through the electric circuit L12 as the physical quantity. Each of the detection circuits 211 and 212 is electrically connected to the control unit 22 and outputs a detection result (first detection value) to the control unit 22.

[0041] The detection unit 21 further includes a detection circuit including a zero-phase-sequence current transformer (ZCT) Z1 for detecting leakage current as the physical quantity. The zero-phase-sequence current transformer Z1 is arranged so that both electric circuits L11 and L12 are inserted through its central hole. An electric circuit for a pseudo-earth leakage current, which will be described later, is also arranged so as to be inserted through the central hole of the zero-phase-sequence current transformer Z1. An output line of the zero-phase-sequence current transformer Z1 is electrically connected to the control unit 22, and outputs a detection result (second detection value) to the control unit 22.

[0042] In other words, the detector 21 is configured to be able to detect, as a physical quantity, the current flowing through each of the electric circuits of the multiple phases (L1 phase and N phase).

[0043] 1B, the control unit 22 has a determination unit 23, a communication unit 25, and a storage unit 26. The control unit 22 includes a computer system having one or more processors and a memory. At least a part of the functions of the control unit 22 (particularly the determination unit 23) is realized by the processor of the computer system executing a program recorded in the memory of the computer system. The program may be recorded in the memory, or may be provided via a telecommunications line such as the Internet, or may be recorded on a non-transitory recording medium such as a memory card and provided.

[0044] The control unit 22 monitors the detection results (first detection value, second detection value) of the detection unit 21 (detection circuits 211, 212 and zero-phase current transformer Z1). The control unit 22 generates a shutdown signal S1 based on the determination result of the determination unit 23, and causes the output unit 24 to output the shutdown signal S1.

[0045] The storage unit 26 is an electrically rewritable non-volatile semiconductor memory such as a flash memory. It is assumed that the storage unit 26 is separate from the memory in which the above-mentioned programs are recorded, but they may be the same. The storage unit 26 stores determination information (thresholds, etc.) referenced by the determination unit 23 and circuit information (circuit number, etc.) related to the branch circuit B1 to which the sensor adapter 2 is connected. In this embodiment, the determination information and circuit information can be changed based on information received from the outside via the communication unit 25.

[0046] The determination unit 23 executes an abnormality determination process for determining the presence or absence of an abnormality based on a physical quantity. The determination unit 23 refers to a threshold value for determining an overcurrent (hereinafter referred to as a first threshold value) stored in the storage unit 26, and compares, for example, whether the first detection values ​​output from the detection circuits 211 and 212 exceed the first threshold value. If at least one of the first detection values ​​from the detection circuits 211 and 212 exceeds the first threshold value, the determination unit 23 determines that an overcurrent has occurred, i.e., that an abnormality has occurred. The first detection value may be an instantaneous value, or may be an average value, maximum value, minimum value, or median value of sampling data within a certain period of time.

[0047] Furthermore, the determination unit 23 refers to a threshold value for determining leakage current (hereinafter referred to as the second threshold value) stored in the memory unit 26, and compares, for example, whether the second detection value output from the zero-phase current transformer Z1 exceeds the second threshold value. If the second detection value exceeds the second threshold value, the determination unit 23 determines that a leakage current has occurred (there is a leakage current), that is, that there is an abnormality. The second detection value may be an instantaneous value, or may be the average, maximum, minimum, or median value of sampled data within a certain period of time.

[0048] To provide additional information regarding leakage current, when no leakage current is occurring, the magnetic flux generated by the round-trip current (current flowing through the electric circuit L11 and the electric circuit L12) to the electrical equipment (load) cancels out, and the output from the output line of the zero-phase current transformer Z1 becomes zero. On the other hand, when leakage current is occurring, the currents flowing through the electric circuit L11 and the electric circuit L12 become unbalanced, and a current corresponding to the degree of unbalance flows in the output line of the zero-phase current transformer Z1. Therefore, the determination unit 23 can determine whether leakage current is occurring based on the output (second detection value) of the zero-phase current transformer Z1.

[0049] When the determination result of the determination unit 23 indicates "abnormality exists," the control unit 22 generates a cutoff signal S1 and outputs it from the output unit 24. As will be described in detail later, upon receiving the cutoff signal S1, the opening and closing unit 3 forcibly opens the contact P1, causing the branch circuit B1 to change from a conducting state to a cutoff state.

[0050] The types of abnormalities determined by the determination unit 23 in this embodiment are overcurrent (overload current and short-circuit current) and leakage current. However, the types of abnormalities determined by the determination unit 23 are not limited to these. The abnormality determined by the determination unit 23 may be the occurrence of at least one of a short-circuit current, an overload current, a leakage current, an overvoltage, and an arc discharge.

[0051] Furthermore, if the switching system 1 includes multiple sensor adapters 2, the types of abnormalities determined by the determination units 23 of the multiple sensor adapters 2 may differ from one another. The switching unit 3 is selectively attached to any one of the multiple sensor adapters 2. Specifically, the first sensor adapter 2 may be configured such that the detection unit 21 includes only detection circuits 211 and 212, and the determination unit 23 performs only overcurrent determination. The second sensor adapter 2 may be configured such that the detection unit 21 includes only a detection circuit including the zero-phase current transformer Z1, and the determination unit 23 performs only earth leakage determination. The third sensor adapter 2 may be configured such that the detection unit 21 includes detection circuits 211 and 212 and a detection circuit including the zero-phase current transformer Z1, as shown in FIG. 1A, and the determination unit 23 performs overcurrent and earth leakage determination. An operator can attach the switching unit 3 to any suitable sensor adapter 2 from multiple sensor adapters 2 that have different types of abnormality determination functions.

[0052] The output unit 24 outputs a shutoff signal S1 to the opening / closing unit 3 in accordance with the determination result of the determination unit 23. In the present embodiment, as an example, the shutoff signal S1 is transmitted by establishing an electrical connection between the output unit 24 and the input unit 31 and transmitting the shutoff signal S1 as an electrical signal. The output unit 24 has a terminal part that is partially exposed from the first body 20, and by connecting the terminal part to the terminal part of the input unit 31 of the opening / closing unit 3, the output unit 24 is able to output (transmit) the shutoff signal S1 (electrical signal) to the opening / closing unit 3.

[0053] The communication unit 25 has a function of a communication interface for communicating with an external communication device, for example, via a wired or wireless connection. The communication device is not particularly limited and may be a power meter that can be installed in the distribution board 4, or a mobile terminal (such as a laptop computer, tablet terminal, or smartphone). The control unit 22 changes the determination information, circuit information, and the like in the storage unit 26 based on information received from the communication device by the communication unit 25. For example, it may be necessary to change the settings of the first threshold, second threshold, and the like used in the abnormality determination process depending on the specifications (such as the rated current) of the distribution board 4 in which the sensor adapter 2 is actually installed. An operator can change the settings of the first threshold, second threshold, and the like by operating the communication device.

[0054] The sensor adapter 2 can also individually set each of the multiple detection values ​​to enabled / disabled. The sensor adapter 2 can use (enable) the detection value of one of the multiple detection circuits (detection circuits 211, 212, and zero-phase current transformer Z1) of its own detection unit 21 in the abnormality determination process, and not use (disable) the detection value of another detection circuit in the abnormality determination process. The memory unit 26 also stores enable / disable setting information. The determination unit 23 references the enable / disable setting information in the memory unit 26 to perform the abnormality determination process.

[0055] The power supply circuit 27 has an input terminal electrically connected to the first electric circuit L1 and an output terminal electrically connected to the control unit 22. The power supply circuit 27 has, for example, an AC / DC conversion circuit, receives AC power from the first electric circuit L1, converts it into DC power in the AC / DC conversion circuit, generates power required as an operating power source for the control unit 22 from the DC power, and supplies the power to the control unit 22.

[0056] First body 20 is made of an electrically insulating material such as synthetic resin and is formed, for example, into the shape of a rectangular box that is elongated in the vertical direction (see FIG. 2). First body 20 houses or holds primary side terminal 201, first electric circuit connection part A1, first electric circuit L1, detection part 21, control part 22 (including determination part 23), power supply circuit 27, output part 24, etc. Sensor adapter 2 has one or more mounting boards on which multiple electronic components that constitute detection circuits 211, 212, the detection circuit including zero-phase-sequence current transformer Z1, control part 22, power supply circuit 27, etc. are mounted, and these one or more mounting boards are also housed within first body 20.

[0057] The switching system 1 has a test function. For example, the switching system 1 further includes a test button disposed on the sensor adapter 2. Specifically, the test button is held so that a portion of it protrudes from the first body 20. When the test button is pressed with a human finger or the like, the control unit 22 causes a simulated leakage current to flow through the current path passing through the hole of the zero-phase current transformer Z1. As a result, a current corresponding to the degree of unbalance flows from the output line of the zero-phase current transformer Z1. The control unit 22 determines that there is a leakage current, generates a tripping signal S1, and outputs it to the switching unit 3. In the switching unit 3, the contact P1 is opened experimentally.

[0058] Next, one of the opening / closing units 3 will be described with reference to FIG. 1A.

[0059] The opening / closing unit 3 has a second electrical circuit L2, an input section 31, a tripping circuit 34, one or more (two in the illustrated example) opening / closing sections 32, a short circuit detection section 33, a second body 30, a secondary side terminal 302, a second electrical circuit connection section A2, and an operating handle.

[0060] The second electric circuit L2 constitutes a part of a specific circuit C1. In this embodiment, the specific circuit C1 is one of the multiple branch circuits B1. The first electric circuit L1 and the second electric circuit L2 of the sensor adapter 2 are electrically connected to each other when the opening / closing unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2, and constitute a part of the specific branch circuit B1.

[0061] The second electric circuit L2 includes electric circuits of multiple phases. As an example in the present embodiment, the second electric circuit L2, like the first electric circuit L1, includes electric circuits of two phases corresponding to the L1 phase and the N phase, in accordance with the fact that the power distribution system on the power supply unit 5 side of the distribution board 4 is a single-phase three-wire system. Specifically, the second electric circuit L2 includes an electric circuit L21 electrically connected to the L1-phase electric circuit bar 41 via the sensor adapter 2, and an electric circuit L22 electrically connected to the N-phase electric circuit bar 41 via the sensor adapter 2. That is, for example, AC power with an effective value of 100 V between the L1 phase and the N phase passes through the second electric circuit L2. Each of the electric circuits L21 and L22 may be configured with one or more conductive members.

[0062] The second electric circuit L2 includes an electric circuit L21 electrically connected to the L1-phase electric circuit bar 41 and an electric circuit electrically connected to the L2-phase electric circuit bar 41. For example, AC power with an effective value of 200 V between the L1 and L2 phases may pass through the second electric circuit L2. As described above, the power distribution system on the power supply unit 5 side may be a single-phase two-wire system, a three-phase three-wire system, or a three-phase four-wire system, in addition to a single-phase three-wire system. In this case, the second electric circuit L2 may include two-phase electric circuits corresponding to the L and N phases, three-phase electric circuits corresponding to the R, S, and T phases, or four-phase electric circuits corresponding to the R, S, T, and N phases.

[0063] The second electrical path connection portion A2 is detachably connected to the first electrical path connection portion A1 of the sensor adapter 2. The second electrical path connection portion A2 includes a unit terminal 301. The unit terminal 301 is arranged at one end (the primary side end, the upper end in FIG. 2 ) of the second electrical path L2. In this embodiment, two unit terminals 301 are provided. One unit terminal 301 is arranged at one end of the electrical path L21, and the other unit terminal 301 is arranged at one end of the electrical path L22. Each unit terminal 301 is held by the second body 30 so that a portion of it is exposed from the upper end of the second body 30. As described above, each unit terminal 301 is configured as a plug-in terminal to which a corresponding secondary side terminal 202 of the sensor adapter 2 is connected.

[0064] The secondary terminal 302 is disposed at the other end (secondary end, lower end in FIG. 2 ) of the second electric circuit L2. In this embodiment, two secondary terminals 302 are provided. One secondary terminal 302 is disposed at the other end of the electric circuit L21, and the other secondary terminal 302 is disposed at the other end of the electric circuit L22. Each secondary terminal 302 is held by the second body 30 so that a portion thereof is exposed from the lower end of the second body 30. Each secondary terminal 302 is configured as, for example, a screwless terminal (so-called quick-connect terminal). For example, in the distribution board 4, first ends of a pair of electric wires W3 (see FIG. 1A ) are connected to the two secondary terminals 302 (quick-connect terminals), respectively, and corresponding electric devices are electrically connected to the second ends of the pair of electric wires W3 to supply power through the branch circuit B1.

[0065] A tripping signal S1 is input to the input unit 31. The input unit 31 has a terminal part that is partially exposed from the second housing 30, and when this terminal part is connected to the terminal part of the output unit 24 of the sensor adapter 2, the tripping signal S1 can be input. The input unit 31 is electrically connected to the tripping circuit 34, and the input tripping signal S1 is sent to the tripping circuit 34.

[0066] The trip circuit 34 includes, for example, a trip coil, a yoke, a fixed core, a movable core, a pushing pin, and a return spring. The yoke is arranged to surround the main circuit coil 331. The trip coil is arranged inside the main circuit coil 331 of the short-circuit detection unit 33 (described later). The trip coil is electrically connected to the input unit 31, and a trip signal S1 (drive current) input from the input unit 31 can flow through the trip coil. The fixed core is arranged within the coil bobbin of the trip coil. The movable core is arranged within the coil bobbin so as to be slidable between a position in contact with the fixed core and a position away from the fixed core. The return spring is, for example, a coil spring, and is housed within the coil bobbin between the movable core and the fixed core. The return spring bends when the movable core moves in a direction toward contact with the fixed core, generating an elastic force that moves the movable core in a direction away from the fixed core. The pushing pin is connected to the armature, and its tip projects outside the coil bobbin.

[0067] The switching unit 32 includes a fixed contact and a movable contact. The fixed contact and the movable contact form a contact P1. The contact P1 of the switching unit 32 is inserted into the second electric circuit L2. In this embodiment, one switching unit 32 is provided for each electric circuit of each phase. That is, switching units 321 and 322 are provided for the electric circuits L21 and L22, respectively.

[0068] The fixed contacts of each switching unit 32 are fixed to a fixed contact plate or are integral with the fixed contact plate. The fixed contact plate is made of a low-resistance material such as iron or copper. The fixed contact plate forms part of the corresponding electrical path (electrical path L21 or electrical path L22).

[0069] The movable contact of each switching unit 32 is located at one end of an arm (movable contactor) formed by punching and bending a metal plate. The movable contact is fixed to one end of the arm or is integrally formed as part of the arm. The arm constitutes part of the corresponding electric circuit (electric circuit L21 or electric circuit L22). The arm can rotate around an axis provided on the other end as a fulcrum between a position where the movable contact is in contact with the fixed contact and a position where the movable contact is separated from the fixed contact.

[0070] The two switching units 32 open the two contacts P1 inserted in the second electric circuit L2 almost simultaneously when the tripping circuit 34 operates in response to the interruption signal S1 input to the input unit 31. As a result, the second electric circuit L2 is switched from a conductive state to an interrupted state.

[0071] Specifically, when the tripping signal S1 flows as a drive current through the tripping coil, the movable iron core is displaced against the spring force of the return spring so as to reduce the magnetic resistance of the magnetic path formed by the yoke, movable iron core, etc. In conjunction with this, the pushing pin protrudes. At this time, the pushing force of the pushing pin is transmitted to the arm, which drives the arm so as to pull the movable contact away from the fixed contact. As a result, each contact P1 is forcibly opened, i.e., tripped. When the drive current (tripping signal S1) stops, the spring force of the return spring displaces the movable iron core to its original position, and the pushing pin also returns to its original position.

[0072] The short-circuit detection unit 33 is disposed on the second electrical circuit L2 and is configured to detect a short-circuit current. The opening / closing unit 32 opens the contact P1 when the short-circuit detection unit 33 detects a short-circuit current. In other words, in this embodiment, not only the sensor adapter 2 but also the opening / closing unit 3 has the function of independently detecting an abnormality (here, a short-circuit current). The short-circuit detection unit 33 includes a main circuit coil 331 (see FIG. 1A).

[0073] The main circuit coil 331 is inserted into the electric circuit L21. Specifically, a first end of the main circuit coil 331 is electrically connected to the unit terminal 301, and a second end of the main circuit coil 331 is electrically connected to the opening / closing unit 32.

[0074] When a short-circuit current flows through the main circuit coil 331, i.e., the current path L21, the movable core is displaced against the spring force of the return spring so as to reduce the magnetic resistance of the magnetic path formed by the yoke, movable core, etc. As a result, each contact P1 is forcibly opened, just as when a tripping signal S1 flows to the trip coil. When the short-circuit current stops, the spring force of the return spring displaces the movable core to its original position, and the pushing pin also returns to its original position.

[0075] By providing the opening and closing unit 3 with a short-circuit current detection function in this manner, the possibility of the opening and closing system 1 being used without the short-circuit current detection function in either the sensor adapter 2 or the opening and closing unit 3 can be reduced.

[0076] The second body 30 is made of an electrically insulating material such as synthetic resin and has, for example, a vertically elongated, flat, rectangular box shape (see FIG. 2). The second body 30 may be made of the same material as the first body 20. The left-to-right width of the second body 30 is approximately equal to the left-to-right width of the first body 20. Therefore, when the switching unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2, the first body 20 and the second body 30 form a flat, rectangular box shape with a sense of unity as a whole, which may have an external shape similar to that of a branch breaker, for example. The second body 30 houses or holds the second electric circuit L2, the second electric circuit connection part A2, the secondary side terminal 302, the input part 31, the switching part 32, the short-circuit detection part 33, the tripping circuit 34, etc. The second body 30 is connected to the first body 20 in a manner that allows a blocking signal S1 to be transmitted from the output section 24 to the input section 31 (in this embodiment, the input section 31 and the output section 24 are electrically connected).

[0077] The operating handle is held by the second body 30 so that a portion of it protrudes from the second body 30. The opening and closing unit 3 is configured to be able to switch the two contacts P1 from closed to open and from open to closed in response to manual operation of the operating handle. For example, after an abnormality is detected and the contact P1 is opened, if a user of the opening and closing system 1 (e.g., a resident) confirms safety, the user can return the contact P1 to closed by operating the operating handle.

[0078] In this way, the switching system 1 of this embodiment has, for example, an overcurrent detection function (detection circuits 211, 212) for both the L1 phase and the N phase, and corresponds to a 2P2E type (2 poles, 2 elements) breaker for a 100V circuit. Note that the switching system 1 may also be applied to a 200V circuit of the L1 and L2 phases. That is, the electric circuits L12 and L22 may be applied as electric circuits for the L2 phase. In the above example, the main circuit coil 331 is provided only in the electric circuit L21, but it may also be provided in the electric circuit L22.

[0079] The following describes the procedure for installation and other work related to the opening and closing system 1. Note that the following procedure is merely an example and is not limiting.

[0080] The worker first holds each sensor adapter 2 in his / her hand and connects the primary terminal 201 (plug-in terminal) of the sensor adapter 2 to the terminal 501 of the power supply unit 5 in the distribution board 4 installed in the house, i.e., to the tip of a branch bar branching from the electric circuit bar 41. In doing so, the worker connects the primary terminal 201 of the electric circuit L11 to the tip of the branch bar corresponding to the L1 phase, and the primary terminal 201 of the electric circuit L12 to the tip of the branch bar corresponding to the N phase.

[0081] Next, the worker holds each opening / closing unit 3 in his / her hand one by one and connects them one-to-one to the sensor adapters 2 arranged in the distribution board 4. Specifically, the worker connects the second electric circuit connection part A2 of each opening / closing unit 3 to the first electric circuit connection part A1 of the corresponding sensor adapter 2.

[0082] Here, the switching system 1 of this embodiment is configured so that the connection between the first electrical circuit connection part A1 and the second electrical circuit connection part A2 is achieved simultaneously with the connection between the output part 24 and the input part 31 (the state in which the interruption signal S1 can be transmitted). As a specific structural example, the first body 20 and the second body 30 each have a protrusion and a recess on the surfaces that face each other when connected. The first electrical circuit connection part A1 and the output part 24 are disposed on the end surface of the protrusion of the first body 20. The second electrical circuit connection part A2 and the input part 31 are disposed on the bottom surface of the recess of the second body 30. By fitting the protrusion of the first body 20 into the recess of the second body 30, the connection between the first electrical circuit connection part A1 and the second electrical circuit connection part A2 is achieved simultaneously with the connection between the output part 24 and the input part 31. As a result, even if the connection between the output section 24 and the input section 31 is not established and an abnormality is determined to exist, the possibility of the sensor adapter 2 and the opening / closing unit 3 being used in a state in which the opening / closing unit 3 cannot receive the shut-off signal S1 can be reduced.

[0083] Then, the worker connects the first ends of the two electric wires W3 to the two secondary side terminals 302 (quick-connect terminals) of each opening / closing unit 3, respectively.

[0084] In this way, each set of sensor adapter 2 and opening / closing unit 3 is arranged in the corresponding branch circuit B1 in the following order: branch bar of electrical circuit bar 41, sensor adapter 2, and opening / closing unit 3. An electrical device can be connected to the secondary terminal 302 of the opening / closing unit 3 via an electric wire W3 or the like.

[0085] Thereafter, the worker operates the communication device to change the settings of the first threshold value, the second threshold value, etc. for each sensor adapter 2, and the installation work is completed.

[0086] In the above description, it is assumed, as an example, that all of the work is performed inside the house (installation site) where the distribution board 4 is installed. However, this is not limited to this, and at least some of the above work may be performed, for example, by attaching the sensor adapter 2 and the opening / closing unit 3 to the distribution board 4 before the distribution board 4 is transported to the installation site.

[0087] In the above description, it is assumed that the sensor adapter 2 is first attached to the distribution board 4, and then the opening / closing unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2. However, in the opening / closing system 1 of this embodiment, the sensor adapter 2 can also be detachably attached to the primary-side power supply unit 5 (here, the branch bar of the electrical circuit bar 41) with the opening / closing unit 3 still attached. The first electrical circuit L1 and the second electrical circuit L2 then form part of a specific branch circuit B1. An operator holds the opening / closing unit 3 attached to the sensor adapter 2 by hand and connects the primary-side terminal 201 (plug-in terminal) of the sensor adapter 2 to the tip of the branch bar branching from the electrical circuit bar 41. This configuration allows the sensor adapter 2 and the opening / closing unit 3 to be installed together in the corresponding branch circuit B1, improving convenience for the operator.

[0088] [advantage] In this way, the opening and closing system 1 is divided into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3. Therefore, it is highly likely that the addition of a detection function for an abnormality or the like can be handled on the sensor adapter 2 side. For example, it is also possible to attach the opening and closing unit 3 to a sensor adapter 2 to which a new detection function for an abnormality has been added. This reduces the constraints on the accommodation space for the opening and closing unit 3 (second housing 30). As a result, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that the addition of a detection function is less likely to be restricted by accommodation space.

[0089] Furthermore, in the switching system 1, the first electric circuit L1 and the second electric circuit L2 are electrically connected to each other and form part of a specific branch circuit B1 when the switching unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2. Therefore, there is no need to provide a function on the sensor adapter 2 side to identify the branch circuit B1 that should be shut off in response to abnormality detection, which simplifies the configuration on the sensor adapter 2 side. Furthermore, the corresponding branch circuit B1 can be shut off more accurately.

[0090] (4) Variations The above embodiment is merely one of various embodiments of the present disclosure. The above embodiment can be modified in various ways depending on the design, etc., as long as the object of the present disclosure can be achieved. Modifications of the above embodiment are listed below. Each modification described below can be applied in appropriate combination with the above embodiment or other modifications.

[0091] (4.1) Variation 1 A distribution board system 100 including a switching system 1 according to this modification (modification 1) will be described below with reference to Fig. 3. In the distribution board system 100 according to modification 1, components that are substantially the same as those of the distribution board system 100 of the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0092] The sensor adapter 2 of Modification 1 differs from the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment in that it includes electric circuits corresponding to three poles, i.e., electric circuits L11, L12, and L13 corresponding to the L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase, respectively. The opening / closing unit 3 of Modification 1 also differs from the opening / closing unit 3 of the above embodiment in that it includes a switching mechanism D1 and that main circuit coils 332 are arranged not only on electric circuit L21 but also on electric circuit L22.

[0093] The following describes in detail the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification, focusing mainly on the differences from the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment.

[0094] The first electric circuit L1 of the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification includes three-phase electric circuits (electric circuits L11, L12, and L13).

[0095] The sensor adapter 2 of the first modification includes three primary side terminals 201 (plug-in terminals). The three primary side terminals 201 are respectively arranged at one end (primary side end) of the electric circuits L11, L12, and L13, and are detachably connected to three terminals 501 of the electric circuit bars 41 of the L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase of the distribution board 4, respectively.

[0096] The first electrical path connection portion A1 of the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification includes three secondary side terminals 202. The three secondary side terminals 202 are disposed at the other ends (secondary side ends) of the electrical paths L11, L12, and L13, respectively.

[0097] The detection unit 21 of the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 1 has detection circuits 211, 212, and 213. The detection circuit 211 is arranged to detect the current flowing through the electric circuit L11. The detection circuit 212 is arranged to detect the current flowing through the electric circuit L12. The detection circuit 213 is arranged to detect the current flowing through the electric circuit L13. Each of the detection circuits 211, 212, and 213 is electrically connected to the control unit 22 and outputs the detection result (first detection value) to the control unit 22. The determination unit 23 determines that an overcurrent has occurred, i.e., that an abnormality exists, if, for example, at least one of the first detection values ​​from the detection circuits 211, 212, and 213 exceeds a first threshold value.

[0098] The detection unit 21 of the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification also includes a detection circuit including three zero-phase current transformers Z11, Z12, and Z13 for detecting leakage current. The zero-phase current transformer Z11 is arranged so that both the electric circuit L12 and the electric circuit L13 are inserted through its central hole. The zero-phase current transformer Z12 is arranged so that both the electric circuit L11 and the electric circuit L12 are inserted through its central hole. The zero-phase current transformer Z13 is arranged so that all of the electric circuits L11, L12, and L13 are inserted through its central hole. The current path for the pseudo-leakage current is also arranged so that it is inserted through the central hole of one of the zero-phase current transformers Z11, Z12, and Z13. The output lines of the zero-phase current transformers Z11, Z12, and Z13 are electrically connected to the control unit 22, and the detection results (second detection values) are output to the control unit 22. If at least one of the second detection values ​​from the zero-phase current transformers Z11, Z12, and Z13 exceeds the second threshold, the determination unit 23 determines that a leakage current has occurred (electric leakage has occurred), that is, that an abnormality has occurred.

[0099] The following will describe in detail the opening / closing unit 3 of the first modified example, mainly focusing on the differences from the opening / closing unit 3 of the above embodiment.

[0100] The second electric circuit L2 of the opening / closing unit 3 of the first modification example differs from the first electric circuit L1 of the sensor adapter 2 in that it includes two-phase electric circuits (electric circuits L21 and L22) and is the same as the second electric circuit L2 of the opening / closing unit 3 of the above embodiment.

[0101] The short-circuit detection section 33 of the switching unit 3 of the first modified example has a main circuit coil 331 inserted in the electric circuit L21 and a main circuit coil 332 inserted in the electric circuit L22. When a short-circuit current flows through the main circuit coil 331 (electric circuit L21) or the main circuit coil 332 (electric circuit L22), the trip circuit 34 operates and each contact P1 is forcibly opened, i.e., tripped.

[0102] Furthermore, the opening / closing unit 3 of the first modification includes a switching mechanism D1. The switching mechanism D1 is configured to be able to switch, in response to a predetermined operation, between a first connection mode and a second connection mode for the three electric circuits corresponding to a single-phase three-wire system, regarding the connection mode of the second electric circuit L2 to the first electric circuit L1. The first connection mode is a mode in which the second electric circuit L2 is electrically connected to the L1-phase and L2-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a first execution value. The second connection mode is a mode in which the second electric circuit L2 is electrically connected to the L1-phase and N-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a second execution value different from the first execution value.

[0103] Specifically, a unit terminal 301 disposed at one end of the electric circuit L22 is held in the second housing 30 so as to be movable between a first position and a second position. The first position is a position where the unit terminal 301 can be connected to a secondary terminal 202 corresponding to the electric circuit L12 of the sensor adapter 2. The second position is a position where the unit terminal 301 can be connected to a secondary terminal 202 corresponding to the electric circuit L13 of the sensor adapter 2. When the unit terminal 301 is in the first position, the electric circuit L22 can be electrically connected to the L2-phase electric circuit bar 41 via the sensor adapter 2. On the other hand, when the unit terminal 301 is in the second position (see the position indicated by the dashed line in FIG. 3 ), the electric circuit L22 can be electrically connected to the N-phase electric circuit bar 41 via the sensor adapter 2.

[0104] For example, by pressing a predetermined operating member exposed from the second body 30 with a person's fingertip or the tip of a tool (predetermined operation), the secondary terminals 202 slide from the second position to the first position. Also, by returning the predetermined operating member to its original position (predetermined operation), the secondary terminals 202 slide from the first position to the second position.

[0105] For example, if the state in which the unit terminal 301 is in the first position is defined as a first connection state, the first connection state is a state in which the second electric circuit L2 is electrically connected to the L1-phase and L2-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of 200 V (first effective value) (200 V circuit). On the other hand, if the state in which the unit terminal 301 is in the second position is defined as a second connection state, the second connection state is a state in which the second electric circuit L2 is electrically connected to the L1-phase and N-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of 100 V (first effective value) (100 V circuit).

[0106] In short, in the first modification, the operator can use the switching mechanism D1 to change the opening / closing unit 3 from one for a 100V circuit to one for a 200V circuit, or from one for a 200V circuit to one for a 100V circuit. Therefore, the opening / closing unit 3 of the first modification can be said to be more versatile than the above-mentioned opening / closing unit 3.

[0107] Conversely, when the opening / closing unit 3 of Modification 1 is attached to the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 1, one of the electrical circuits L12 and L13 will not be used. For example, when the unit terminal 301 is in the first position (first connection mode), the electrical circuit L13 will not be used. Also, when the unit terminal 301 is in the second position (second connection mode), the electrical circuit L12 will not be used. Therefore, depending on whether the opening / closing unit 3 to be attached is in the first connection mode or the second connection mode, the worker operates the communication device to set which of the multiple detection values ​​from the detection unit 21 will be valid and which will be invalid in the abnormality determination process of the determination unit 23 of the sensor adapter 2.

[0108] In particular, the detector 21 of the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification is configured to be able to detect overcurrents and leakage currents in all three-phase electric circuits. Therefore, the sensor adapter 2 of the first modification can be used regardless of whether it is fitted with a switching unit 3 that uses the L1 and L2 phases, a switching unit 3 that uses the L1 and N phases, or a switching unit 3 that uses all three phases (see the switching unit 3 in FIG. 5).

[0109] In this way, the sensor adapter 2 is configured to be able to detect the current flowing through each of the three phase electrical circuits, L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase, and is therefore easily applicable to any of the various types of opening and closing units 3 to which it is attached.

[0110] The switching system 1 of the first modification has a structure (blocking structure) that blocks the unit terminal 301 from being connected to the terminal 501 of the power feeding unit 5. Specifically, as shown in FIG. 3 , the primary-side terminal 201 of the sensor adapter 2 and the unit terminal 301 of the switching unit 3 are configured to have different terminal structures. The primary-side terminal 201 can be connected to the terminal 501 on the distribution board 4 side, but the unit terminal 301 cannot be connected to the terminal 501 on the distribution board 4 side. This reduces the possibility that, for example, an operator will mistakenly connect the switching unit 3 directly to the terminal 501 of the power feeding unit 5 without going through the sensor adapter 2.

[0111] The obstruction structure is not limited to being realized by differentiating the terminal structures of the primary side terminal 201 and the unit terminal 301. For example, the obstruction structure may be realized by differentiating the distance between the terminals of the plurality of unit terminals 301 or the terminal positions from the distance between the terminals of the plurality of primary side terminals 201 or the terminal positions.

[0112] Alternatively, for example, a protrusion may be provided around unit terminal 301, and the protrusion may come into contact with the periphery of terminal 501, thereby obstructing the connection of unit terminal 301 to terminal 501. In this case, a recess for receiving the protrusion is provided around secondary terminal 202 of sensor adapter 2, so that the connection of unit terminal 301 to secondary terminal 202 is not obstructed.

[0113] In the first modification, the opening and closing system 1 is also divided into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3. Therefore, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that the addition of a detection function is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space.

[0114] (4.2) Variation 2 A distribution board system 100 including a switching system 1 according to this modification (modification 2) will be described below with reference to Fig. 4. In the distribution board system 100 according to modification 2, components that are substantially the same as those of the distribution board system 100 of the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0115] The sensor adapter 2 of the second modification differs from the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment in that it is fixed to the distribution board 4 and is configured so as not to be easily detached. Note that the opening / closing unit 3 of the second modification is the same as the opening / closing unit 3 of the above embodiment, and therefore a description thereof will be omitted here.

[0116] The sensing function (detection of overcurrent and leakage current) of the sensor adapter 2 of the second modification is the same as that of the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment.

[0117] In the second modification, the power supply unit 5 does not have a terminal 501, and the sensor adapter 2 of the second modification also does not have a primary side terminal 201 (detachably connected to the terminal 501) unlike the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment.

[0118] The sensor adapter 2 of Modification 2 is disposed within the distribution board 4 with the first electric circuit L1 fixed to the electric circuit bar 41 of the distribution board 4. Specifically, the electric circuits L11 and L12 of the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 2 are directly fixed to the power supply unit 5, i.e., the branch bars of the L1-phase and N-phase electric circuit bars 41, respectively. Fixing means may be screwing, crimping, welding, or the like. Furthermore, the first housing 20 of the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 2 is fixed to the bottom surface of the distribution board 4, for example, by screwing, or the like. Therefore, an operator does not need to perform the work of attaching the sensor adapter 2 to the distribution board 4. As a result, convenience for the operator is improved.

[0119] The multiple sensor adapters 2 arranged in the distribution board 4 may include, for example, a type of sensor adapter 2 having the function of detecting overcurrent and leakage current (see FIG. 4) and a type of sensor adapter 2 having the function of detecting leakage current only. The worker may install the opening / closing unit 3 by appropriately determining, for example, which type of sensor adapter 2 to use.

[0120] In the second modification, the opening and closing system 1 is also divided into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3. Therefore, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that the addition of a detection function is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space.

[0121] When the sensor adapter 2 is fixed to the distribution board 4 as in the second modification, the sensor adapter 2 may also incorporate a Rogowski coil for detecting the current flowing through each branch circuit B1 and outputting the detected current to a power meter.

[0122] (4.3) Variation 3 A distribution board system 100 including a switching system 1 according to this modification (Modification 3) will be described below with reference to Fig. 5. In the distribution board system 100 according to Modification 3, components that are substantially the same as those of the distribution board system 100 of the above embodiment are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0123] Like the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 2, the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 3 is fixed to the distribution board 4 and is configured not to be easily detached. Also, like the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 1, the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 3 has electric circuits corresponding to the three poles, i.e., electric circuits L11, L12, and L13 corresponding to the L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase, respectively. Specifically, the electric circuits L11, L12, and L13 of the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 3 are directly fixed to the power supply unit 5, i.e., the branch bars of the electric circuit bars 41 of the L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase, respectively. The sensing function (detection of overcurrent and leakage current) of the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 3 is the same as that of the sensor adapter 2 of Variation 1.

[0124] On the other hand, the switching unit 3 of Modification 3 is different from the switching units 3 of the above-described embodiment, Modification 1, and Modification 2 in that it has electric circuits corresponding to three poles, i.e., electric circuits L21, L22, and L23 corresponding to the L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase, respectively. Therefore, three unit terminals 301 are provided, and three secondary side terminals 302 are also provided.

[0125] The short-circuit detection section 33 of the switching unit 3 of the third modified example has a main circuit coil 331 inserted in the electric circuit L21 and a main circuit coil 332 inserted in the electric circuit L22. When a short-circuit current flows through the main circuit coil 331 (electric circuit L21) or the main circuit coil 332 (electric circuit L22), the trip circuit 34 operates and each contact P1 is forcibly opened, i.e., tripped. Note that no main circuit coil for detecting a short-circuit current is inserted in the electric circuit L23 corresponding to the N phase.

[0126] In the switching unit 3 of the third modification, one switching unit 32 is provided for each electric circuit of each phase. That is, switching units 321, 322, and 323 are provided for the electric circuits L21, L22, and L23, respectively. Therefore, when a tripping signal S1 is input or when the short-circuit detection unit 33 detects a short-circuit current, the contacts P1 of all three phases are forcibly opened.

[0127] In the third modification, the opening and closing system 1 is also divided into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3. Therefore, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that the addition of a detection function is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space.

[0128] (4.4) Variation 4 A distribution board system 100 including a switching system 1 according to this modification (modification 4) will be described below with reference to Fig. 6. In the distribution board system 100 according to modification 4, components that are substantially the same as those of the distribution board system 100 of the above embodiment will be assigned the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof may be omitted as appropriate.

[0129] The sensor adapter 2 of Modification 4 differs from the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment and Modifications 1 to 3 in that it is configured so that multiple opening and closing units 3 can be attached at the same time. That is, the opening and closing systems 1 of the above embodiment and Modifications 1 to 3 are configured so that the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing units 3 are attached in a one-to-one correspondence. The opening and closing system 1 of Modification 4 is configured so that the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing units 3 are attached in a one-to-many correspondence. In the example shown in FIG. 6, a maximum of 10 opening and closing units 3 can be attached to one sensor adapter 2, but there is no particular limit to the number of opening and closing units 3 that can be attached.

[0130] The first housing 20 of the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 4 is set to have a larger left-right width than the first housing 20 of the sensor adapter 2 of the above embodiment (see FIG. 2). In the example shown in FIG. 6, the left-right width of the first housing 20 corresponds to the left-right width of ten second housings 30 of the opening / closing units 3. Therefore, when ten opening / closing units 3 are attached to the sensor adapter 2, the opening / closing system 1 of Modification 4 has a rectangular box shape that gives a sense of unity as a whole.

[0131] The sensor adapter 2 of Modification 4 is provided with the same number of first electric circuits L1 as the branch circuits B1, and also has the same number of sets of first electric circuit connection units A1 and output units 24 as the branch circuits B1. The sensor adapter 2 of Modification 4 is also provided with the same number of detection units 21 as the branch circuits B1. That is, the sensor adapter 2 of Modification 4 has a plurality of first electric circuits L1 that correspond one-to-one to the plurality of branch circuits B1, respectively, and a plurality of detection units 21 that detect physical quantities in the plurality of first electric circuits L1.

[0132] In variant example 4, the second electrical circuit L2 of each opening / closing unit 3 attached to the sensor adapter 2 is electrically connected to a corresponding first electrical circuit L1 among the plurality of first electrical circuits L1, thereby forming part of a specific branch circuit B1.

[0133] In the fourth modification, the control unit 22 (see FIG. 1A) of the sensor adapter 2 is electrically connected to multiple detectors 21, the number of which corresponds to the number of branch circuits B1. The control unit 22 receives detection values ​​from each detector 21 and centrally monitors all branch circuits B1 for abnormalities. That is, in the fourth modification, the determination unit 23 individually determines whether or not an abnormality exists for each of the branch circuits B1. The output unit 24 outputs a tripping signal S1 to the switching unit 3 corresponding to a branch circuit B1 determined to have an abnormality among the branch circuits B1. That is, the control unit 22 of the fourth modification stores, in the memory unit 26 (see FIG. 1B), information (circuit information) regarding which detector 21 corresponds to which branch circuit B1 and which switching unit 3. When the switching unit 3 is attached to the sensor adapter 2, the control unit 22 automatically identifies the circuit number, etc., of the branch circuit B1 connected to the switching unit 3, and creates and stores the circuit information. The circuit information may be created manually by an operator operating the communication device.

[0134] Like the sensor adapters 2 of the second and third modifications, the sensor adapter 2 of the fourth modification is preferably fixed to the distribution board 4, but may be detachable from the distribution board 4.

[0135] In this way, in the switching system 1 of the fourth modification, one sensor adapter 2 can individually open the contacts P1 for multiple switching units 3 when an abnormality occurs. Therefore, when multiple switching units 3 are used, it is possible to reduce the number of parts in the entire switching system 1. As a result, it can also contribute to cost reduction.

[0136] Also in the fourth modification, the opening and closing system 1 is divided into the sensor adapter 2 and the opening and closing unit 3. Therefore, the opening and closing system 1 has the advantage that the addition of a detection function is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space.

[0137] In the fourth modification, a plurality of Rogowski coils may also be incorporated in the sensor adapter 2 for detecting the currents flowing through the plurality of branch circuits B1, respectively.

[0138] (4.5) Other Modifications In the above embodiment, the transmission of the blocking signal S1 is performed by contacting the terminal of the output unit 24 with the terminal of the input unit 31 to establish an electrical connection and transmit the signal as an electrical signal. However, the transmission of the blocking signal S1 is not limited to an "electrical connection." The transmission of the blocking signal S1 may also be performed by an "optical connection." The output unit 24 may have, for example, a light source that outputs the infrared blocking signal S1. Meanwhile, the input unit 31 may have a light-receiving element such as a phototransistor that receives the infrared blocking signal S1 and converts it into an electrical signal. In this case, the blocking signal S1 can be transmitted without electrical isolation, and noise resistance can also be improved.

[0139] Alternatively, the transmission of the shutoff signal S1 may be performed by a "magnetic connection." The output unit 24 may have, for example, an electromagnet device, and may transmit the shutoff signal S1 by a magnetic change related to the electromagnet device. On the other hand, the input unit 31 may have, for example, a magnetic sensor such as a Hall element that detects magnetic changes. In this case, too, the shutoff signal S1 can be transmitted without electrical insulation, and noise resistance can be improved.

[0140] Alternatively, the transmission of the shutoff signal S1 may be performed by "physical contact." The output unit 24 may have, for example, an electromagnet device and an arm, and may transmit the shutoff signal S1 by turning on the electromagnet device to move the arm so that it protrudes toward the input unit 31. On the other hand, the input unit 31 may have, for example, a movable part that is pushed and displaced by the arm of the output unit 24, contacts (a fixed contact and a movable contact), and a detection unit that detects the opening of the contacts. The shutoff signal S1 may be input when the movable part is pushed and displaced by the arm, and the movable contact provided in the movable part separates from the fixed contact (opening of the contacts).

[0141] In the above embodiment, the opening and closing unit 3 is provided with a short-circuit detection section 33 (main circuit coil 331) for detecting a short-circuit current. However, a sensing function for detecting an abnormality, including the short-circuit detection section 33, is not essential for the opening and closing unit 3. The short-circuit detection section 33 (main circuit coil 331) may be provided in the sensor adapter 2. However, detection of a short-circuit current by the main circuit coil 331 does not require a processor (controller 22 in the sensor adapter 2) for executing an abnormality determination process, a power supply circuit (power supply circuit 27 in the sensor adapter 2) for generating operating power for the processor, etc. Therefore, a sensor element (instantaneous sensor) such as the main circuit coil 331 can be easily provided in the opening and closing unit 3 in terms of accommodation space.

[0142] The switching unit 3 may include a bimetal plate disposed on the second electric circuit L2 to detect an overload current. The bimetal plate may be a directly heated type that bends due to self-heating or an indirectly heated type that bends due to heating by a heater. For example, when an overload current flows through the second electric circuit L2, the temperature of the bimetal plate rises and one end of the bimetal plate deforms. The pressing force of the bimetal plate may then be transmitted, separating the movable contact from the fixed contact, forcibly opening the contact P1. Detection of an overload current using a bimetal plate also does not require a processor or power supply circuit for executing an abnormality determination process. Therefore, the bimetal plate can be easily installed in the switching unit 3 in terms of storage space. The bimetal plate may also be installed in the sensor adapter 2.

[0143] In the distribution board 4 shown in Fig. 2, as an example, a plurality of opening / closing units 3 are mounted so as to be positioned below a plurality of sensor adapters 2. However, for example, a plurality of opening / closing units 3 may be mounted so as to be positioned above a plurality of sensor adapters 2. Furthermore, in addition to the plurality of sensor adapters 2 shown in Fig. 2, another plurality of sensor adapters 2 may be arranged above them, and a plurality of opening / closing units 3 may be mounted so as to be positioned above the other plurality of sensor adapters 2. In short, for example, ten pairs of sensor adapters 2 and opening / closing units 3 and another ten pairs of sensor adapters 2 and opening / closing units 3 may be arranged symmetrically above and below the electrical circuit bar 41.

[0144] A set of multiple sensor adapters 2 and one switching unit 3 may be arranged for one branch circuit B1. In other words, multiple sensor adapters 2 may be connected in series to one branch circuit B1. For example, a first sensor adapter 2 having an overcurrent detection function may be connected to a branch bar, and a second sensor adapter 2 having a leakage current detection function may be connected to the secondary side of the first sensor adapter 2. The switching unit 3 may be connected to the secondary side of the second sensor adapter 2.

[0145] The switching system 1 of the above embodiment has a configuration in which the sensor adapter 2 is connected to the terminal 501 (branch bar of the electrical circuit bar 41) of the power supply unit 5 so as to be located on the primary side of the switching unit 3 on the branch circuit B1. However, this is not limited to this, and the switching system 1 may have a configuration in which the switching unit 3 is connected to the terminal 501 (branch bar of the electrical circuit bar 41) of the power supply unit 5, and the sensor adapter 2 is attached to the switching unit 3 so as to be located on the secondary side of the switching unit 3.

[0146] Depending on the usage pattern, a certain branch circuit B1 may not require the sensing function of the sensor adapter 2. An operator may operate the communication device to set the sensor adapter 2 to disable all detection values ​​from the detection unit 21, or, for example, a dummy adapter may be attached. The dummy adapter may not include the detection unit 21, the control unit 22, or the power supply circuit 27, but may include only the first housing 20, the first electrical circuit L1, the primary terminal 201, and the secondary terminal 202. By connecting the primary terminal 201 of the dummy adapter to the branch bar of the electrical circuit bar 41 and connecting the unit terminal 301 of the switching unit 3 to the secondary terminal 202 of the dummy adapter, power from the power supply unit 5 is transmitted to the switching unit 3 via the dummy adapter.

[0147] (summary) The above-described embodiments and the like disclose the following aspects.

[0148] A switching system (1) according to a first aspect includes a sensor adapter (2) and an opening / closing unit (3) detachably attached to the sensor adapter (2). The sensor adapter (2) has a first electrical circuit (L1), a detection unit (21), a determination unit (23), an output unit (24), and a first housing (20). The detection unit (21) detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electrical circuit (L1). The determination unit (23) determines the presence or absence of an abnormality based on the physical quantity. The output unit (24) outputs a shutoff signal (S1) to the opening / closing unit (3) in accordance with the determination result of the determination unit (23). The first housing (20) houses or holds the first electrical circuit (L1), the detection unit (21), the determination unit (23), and the output unit (24). The switching unit (3) has a second electrical circuit (L2), an input section (31), a switching section (32), and a second housing (30). The second electrical circuit (L2) constitutes a part of a specific circuit (C1). A disconnection signal (S1) is input to the input section (31). The switching section (32) switches the second electrical circuit (L2) from a conductive state to a disconnection state by opening a contact (P1) inserted in the second electrical circuit (L2) in response to the disconnection signal (S1) input to the input section (31). The second housing (30) houses or holds the second electrical circuit (L2), the input section (31), and the switching section (32), and is connected to the first housing (20) in a manner that allows the disconnection signal (S1) to be transmitted from the output section (24) to the input section (31).

[0149] According to the above aspect, since the sensor adapter (2) and the opening / closing unit (3) are separated, adding a function to detect abnormalities and the like is less likely to be restricted by the accommodation space (second housing 30) of the opening / closing unit (3). As a result, the opening / closing system (1) has the advantage that adding a detection function is less likely to be restricted by the accommodation space.

[0150] In the first embodiment of the switching system (1) according to the second aspect, the specific circuit (C1) is one specific branch circuit (B1) among the plurality of branch circuits (B1). The first electric circuit (L1) and the second electric circuit (L2) are electrically connected to each other and form part of the specific branch circuit (B1) when the switching unit (3) is attached to the sensor adapter (2).

[0151] According to the above aspect, there is no need to provide a function on the sensor adapter (2) side for identifying the branch circuit (B1) that should be shut off in response to the detection of an abnormality, which simplifies the configuration of the sensor adapter (2) side. Also, the corresponding branch circuit (B1) can be shut off more accurately.

[0152] In the second aspect of the switching system (1) according to the third aspect, the sensor adapter (2) is detachably attached to the primary power supply section (5) while the switching unit (3) remains attached. The first electric circuit (L1) and the second electric circuit (L2) form part of a specific branch circuit (B1).

[0153] According to the above aspect, the sensor adapter (2) and the opening / closing unit (3) can be installed together for the corresponding branch circuit (B1), thereby improving convenience for the worker.

[0154] Regarding the switching system (1) according to the fourth aspect, in any one of the first to third aspects, the first electric circuit (L1) includes electric circuits of multiple phases (for example, three phases: L1 phase, L2 phase, and N phase). The detection unit (21) is configured to be able to detect, as a physical quantity, a current flowing through each of the electric circuits of the multiple phases.

[0155] According to the above aspect, the sensor adapter (2) is configured to be able to detect the current flowing through each of the multiple-phase electrical circuits, so that a sensor adapter (2) that is easy to apply can be provided regardless of which of the various types of opening / closing units (3) is attached.

[0156] The opening / closing system (1) according to a fifth aspect is any one of the first to fourth aspects and includes a plurality of sensor adapters (2). The plurality of sensor adapters (2) differ from one another in the types of abnormality determined by the determining section (23). The opening / closing unit (3) is selectively attached to any one of the plurality of sensor adapters (2).

[0157] According to the above aspect, the opening / closing unit (3) can be attached to any suitable sensor adapter (2) from among a plurality of sensor adapters (2) having different types of abnormality determination functions.

[0158] Regarding the switching system (1) according to the sixth aspect, in any one of the first to fifth aspects, the abnormality determined by the determination unit (23) is the occurrence of at least one of a short circuit current, an overload current, a leakage current, an overvoltage, and an arc discharge.

[0159] According to the above aspect, adding a function to detect at least one of short circuit current, overload current, earth leakage current, overvoltage, and arc discharge is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space.

[0160] The switching system (1) according to a seventh aspect is any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the switching unit (3) further includes a short-circuit detection section (33) disposed in the second electric circuit (L2) for detecting a short-circuit current. The switching section (32) opens the contact (P1) when the short-circuit detection section (33) detects a short-circuit current.

[0161] According to the above aspect, by providing the opening and closing unit (3) with a function for detecting short-circuit current, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the opening and closing system (1) will be used in a state where neither the sensor adapter (2) nor the opening and closing unit (3) has a function for detecting short-circuit current.

[0162] Regarding the opening and closing system (1) according to the eighth aspect, in any one of the first to seventh aspects, the sensor adapter (2) further has a first electrical circuit connection part (A1). The opening and closing unit (3) further has a second electrical circuit connection part (A2) that is detachably connected to the first electrical circuit connection part (A1) to electrically connect the first electrical circuit (L1) and the second electrical circuit (L2). The connection between the first electrical circuit connection part (A1) and the second electrical circuit connection part (A2) is configured to be achieved simultaneously with the connection between the output part (24) and the input part (31).

[0163] According to the above-described embodiment, even if it is determined that the connection between the output part (24) and the input part (31) is not established and that an abnormality exists, the possibility that the sensor adapter (2) and the opening / closing unit (3) will be used in a state in which the opening / closing unit (3) cannot receive the shut-off signal (S1) can be reduced.

[0164] Regarding the switching system (1) according to the ninth aspect, in any one of the first to eighth aspects, the sensor adapter (2) further includes a primary side terminal (201) arranged at one end of the first electrical path (L1) and a secondary side terminal (202) arranged at the other end of the first electrical path (L1). The switching unit (3) further includes a unit terminal (301) arranged at one end of the second electrical path (L2). The primary side terminal (201) is configured to be connected to a terminal (501) of a primary side power supply unit (5). The unit terminal (301) is configured to be connected to the secondary side terminal (202). The switching system (1) has a structure that prevents the unit terminal (301) from being connected to the terminal (501) of the power supply unit (5).

[0165] According to the above aspect, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the opening / closing unit (3) is connected directly to the power supply part (5) without going through the sensor adapter (2).

[0166] With respect to the opening and closing system (1) according to the tenth aspect, in any one of the first to ninth aspects, the sensor adapter (2) is arranged in the distribution board (4) in such a manner that the first electrical circuit (L1) is fixed to the electrical circuit bar (41) of the distribution board (4).

[0167] According to the above aspect, convenience for the worker is improved.

[0168] Regarding the switching system (1) according to an eleventh aspect, in any one of the first to tenth aspects, the specific circuit (C1) is one specific branch circuit (B1) among the multiple branch circuits (B1). The sensor adapter (2) is configured so that multiple switching units (3) can be simultaneously attached. The sensor adapter (2) has multiple first electric circuits (L1) corresponding one-to-one to the multiple branch circuits (B1), respectively, and multiple detection units (21) that detect physical quantities in the multiple first electric circuits (L1). The second electric circuit (L2) of the switching unit (3) attached to the sensor adapter (2) is electrically connected to the corresponding first electric circuit (L1) among the multiple first electric circuits (L1) and forms part of the specific branch circuit (B1). The determination unit (23) individually determines the presence or absence of an abnormality for each of the multiple branch circuits (B1). The output section (24) outputs a shutoff signal (S1) to the opening / closing unit (3) corresponding to the branch circuit (B1) determined to have an abnormality among the plurality of branch circuits (B1).

[0169] According to the above aspect, one sensor adapter (2) can shut off a plurality of opening / closing units (3) in the event of an abnormality. Therefore, when a plurality of opening / closing units (3) are used, the number of parts in the opening / closing system (1) as a whole can be reduced.

[0170] Regarding the switching system (1) according to a twelfth aspect, in any one of the first to eleventh aspects, the first electric circuit (L1) includes three electric circuits corresponding to a single-phase three-wire system. The switching unit (3) further includes a switching mechanism (D1) capable of switching between a first connection mode and a second connection mode among the three electric circuits for connecting the second electric circuit (L2) to the first electric circuit (L1) in response to a predetermined operation. The first connection mode is a mode in which the L1-phase and L2-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a first real value are electrically connected. The second connection mode is a mode in which the L1-phase and N-phase electric circuits corresponding to a voltage of a second real value different from the first real value are electrically connected.

[0171] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a more versatile opening / closing unit (3).

[0172] An opening / closing unit (3) according to a thirteenth aspect is applied to the opening / closing system (1) according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects. The opening / closing unit (3) is detachably attached to the sensor adapter (2).

[0173] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide an opening / closing unit (3) that is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space when adding a detection function.

[0174] A sensor adapter (2) according to a fourteenth aspect is applied to the opening and closing system (1) according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects. The sensor adapter (2) is detachably attached to the opening and closing unit (3).

[0175] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a sensor adapter (2) that is less subject to restrictions on accommodation space when adding a detection function.

[0176] A distribution board system (100) according to a fifteenth aspect includes the opening / closing system (1) according to any one of the first to twelfth aspects and a distribution board (4). A plurality of sensor adapters (2) and a plurality of opening / closing units (3) are provided. The plurality of sensor adapters (2) are arranged in the distribution board (4) in a manner fixed to circuit bars (41) of the distribution board (4).

[0177] According to the above aspect, it is possible to provide a distribution board system (100) that is less subject to space limitations when adding a detection function.

[0178] The configurations according to the second to twelfth aspects are not essential for the opening and closing system (1) and can be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0179] 1. Opening and closing system 2 Sensor Adapter 20 First vessel 201 Primary side terminal 202 Secondary side terminal 21 Detection unit 23 Judgment section 24 Output section 3 Opening and closing unit 30 Second Body 301 Unit terminal 31 Input section 32 Opening and closing section 33 Short circuit detection section 4 Distribution board 41 Electrical Bar 5 Power supply unit 501 (power supply) terminal 100 Distribution Board System A1 First electrical circuit connection A2 2nd electrical circuit connection B1 Branch Circuit C1 Specific circuit D1 Switching Mechanism L1 1st electrical circuit L2 2nd electrical circuit P1 contact S1 Shutdown signal

Claims

1. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, the first electric circuit includes a multi-phase electric circuit; the detection unit is configured to be able to detect, as the physical quantity, a current flowing through each of the multiple-phase electric paths; Opening and closing system.

2. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, A plurality of the sensor adapters are provided, The plurality of sensor adapters are different from one another in the types of abnormality determined by the determination unit, the opening / closing unit is selectively attached to any one of the plurality of sensor adapters; Opening and closing system.

3. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, the switching unit further includes a short circuit detection unit disposed in the second electric circuit for detecting a short circuit current, The opening / closing unit opens the contacts when the short-circuit current is detected by the short-circuit detection unit. Opening and closing system.

4. A sensor adapter; an opening and closing unit detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, the sensor adapter further includes a primary terminal disposed at one end of the first electrical path and a secondary terminal disposed at the other end of the first electrical path; the opening / closing unit further includes a unit terminal disposed at one end of the second electrical path, the primary terminal is configured to be connected to a terminal of a primary power supply; the unit terminal is configured to be connected to the secondary side terminal, The opening and closing system has a structure that prevents the unit terminal from being connected to the terminal of the power supply unit. Opening and closing system.

5. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, The sensor adapter is disposed in the distribution board in a manner in which the first electric circuit is fixed to an electric circuit bar of the distribution board. Opening and closing system.

6. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, the specific circuit is one specific branch circuit among a plurality of branch circuits, The sensor adapter includes: A plurality of the opening / closing units are configured to be simultaneously mountable, a plurality of the first electric circuits corresponding one-to-one to the plurality of branch circuits, respectively; and a plurality of the detection units configured to detect the physical quantities in the plurality of first electric circuits, respectively; the second electric circuit of the opening / closing unit attached to the sensor adapter is electrically connected to a corresponding one of the plurality of first electric circuits to form a part of the specific branch circuit; the determination unit determines whether or not an abnormality exists for each of the plurality of branch circuits; the output unit outputs the interruption signal to the opening / closing unit corresponding to a branch circuit determined to have an abnormality among the plurality of branch circuits. Opening and closing system.

7. A sensor adapter; an opening / closing unit that is detachably attached to the sensor adapter, The sensor adapter includes: The first circuit, a detection unit that detects a physical quantity related to electricity in the first electric path; a determination unit that determines whether or not there is an abnormality based on the physical quantity; an output unit that outputs a cutoff signal to the opening / closing unit in accordance with a determination result of the determination unit; a first housing that houses or holds the first electrical path, the detection unit, the determination unit, and the output unit, The opening and closing unit includes: a second electric circuit that constitutes a part of a specific circuit; an input unit to which the interruption signal is input; an opening / closing unit that switches the second electric circuit from a conductive state to a cut-off state by opening a contact inserted in the second electric circuit in response to the cut-off signal input to the input unit; a second body that houses or holds the second electric circuit, the input unit, and the opening / closing unit, and is connected to the first body in a manner that the interruption signal can be transmitted from the output unit to the input unit, The first electric circuit includes three electric circuits corresponding to a single-phase three-wire system, The opening / closing unit further includes a switching mechanism that can switch, in response to a predetermined operation, a connection mode of the second electric circuit to the first electric circuit between a first connection mode in which the first electric circuit is electrically connected to the electric circuits of L1 phase and L2 phase corresponding to a voltage of a first effective value among the three electric circuits, and a second connection mode in which the first electric circuit is electrically connected to the electric circuits of L1 phase and N phase corresponding to a voltage of a second effective value different from the first effective value. Opening and closing system.

8. The specific circuit is one specific branch circuit among a plurality of branch circuits, the first electric circuit and the second electric circuit are electrically connected to each other in a state in which the opening / closing unit is attached to the sensor adapter, and form a part of the specific branch circuit. The opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The sensor adapter is detachably attached to the primary power supply section with the opening / closing unit still attached, and the first electric circuit and the second electric circuit constitute a part of the specific branch circuit. The opening and closing system according to claim 8.

10. The abnormality determined by the determination unit is the occurrence of at least one of a short circuit current, an overload current, a leakage current, an overvoltage, and an arc discharge. The opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

11. The sensor adapter further has a first electrical circuit connection portion, The opening and closing unit further includes a second electrical path connection portion that is detachably connected to the first electrical path connection portion to electrically connect the first electrical path and the second electrical path, The connection between the first electrical path connection portion and the second electrical path connection portion is configured to be achieved simultaneously with the connection between the output portion and the input portion. The opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

12. Applied to the opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, The sensor adapter is detachably attached to the sensor adapter. Opening and closing unit.

13. Applied to the opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Removably attached to the opening / closing unit, Sensor adapter.

14. An opening and closing system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, Distribution board and Equipped with a plurality of the sensor adapters and a plurality of the opening / closing units are provided; The plurality of sensor adapters are arranged in the distribution board in a manner fixed to electrical wiring bars of the distribution board. Distribution board system.

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