Standard-compliant circuit breaker device and method

Abstract

The invention relates to a circuit breaker device for low-voltage AC circuits, comprising: - a mechanical isolating contact unit which is connected in series with an electronic interruption unit, wherein the series circuit is connected on one side to the at least one network-side connection and on the other side to the at least one load-side connection, - a current sensor unit for determining the level of the current of the low-voltage AC circuit, - a control unit which is connected to the current sensor unit, the mechanical isolating contact unit and the electronic interruption unit, wherein avoidance of a current flow is initiated if specific trip current-time limit values which form a trip curve are exceeded, - a standard for electrical installation material specifies current-time limit values of the tripping so that a flow of current in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided and current-time limit values of the non-tripping so that a flow of current in the low-voltage AC circuit must be conducted, said current-time limit values characterizing a trip range, - the specific trip current-time limit values are within the trip range, - the circuit breaker device is designed in such a way that at least one first trip curve and a second trip curve within the trip range can be selected for the trip range such that a different trip response can be selected within a trip range with standard characterization.

Description

[0001] 202316301 1 Description Standard-compliant protective switching device and method Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identity are included. The invention relates to the technical field of a standard-compliant (standard-based) protective switching device for line protection for a low-voltage alternating current circuit and to a method for a standard-compliant (standard-based) protective switching device for line protection for a low-voltage alternating current circuit. Low voltage means voltages of up to 1000 volts alternating voltage or up to 1500 volts direct voltage. Low voltage means in particular voltages that are greater than extra-low voltage, with values ​​of 50 volts alternating voltage or 120 volts direct voltage. Low-voltage circuit or network or system means circuits with rated currents orRated currents of up to 125 amps, more specifically up to 63 amps, are meant. Low-voltage circuits refer in particular to circuits with rated currents of up to 50 amps, 40 amps, 32 amps, 25 amps, 16 amps, or 10 amps. The current values ​​mentioned refer in particular to rated, rated, and / or breaking currents, i.e., the maximum current that is normally carried through the circuit or at which the electrical circuit is usually interrupted, for example, by a protective device such as a protective switching device, circuit breaker, or circuit breaker. The nominal currents can be further staggered, from 0.5 A via 1 A, 2 A, 3 A, 4 A, 5 A, 6 A, 7 A, 8 A, 9 A, 10 A, etc. up to 16 A. 202316301 2 Miniature circuit breakers are long-established overcurrent protection devices that are used in electrical installation technology in low-voltage circuits.These protect cables from damage caused by heating due to excessive current and / or short circuits. A miniature circuit breaker can automatically switch off the circuit in the event of an overload and / or short circuit. A miniature circuit breaker is a non-self-resetting fuse element. Miniature circuit breakers and their properties are defined, for example, in the standard DIN EN 60898 "Electrical installation material - Circuit breakers for household installations and similar purposes". Unlike miniature circuit breakers, circuit breakers are intended for currents greater than 125 A, and in some cases even from 63 A. Circuit breakers are constructed differently than miniature circuit breakers. Circuit breakers and their properties are defined, for example, in the standard DIN EN 60947 "Low-voltage switchgear". Unlike circuit breakers, miniature circuit breakers have a simpler and more delicate design.Miniature circuit breakers typically have a mounting option for attachment to a so-called top-hat rail (DIN rail, TH35). Miniature circuit breakers are electromechanically constructed. They contain a mechanical switching contact or shunt release in a housing to interrupt (trip) the electrical current. Typically, a bimetallic protective element or bimetallic element is used to trip (interrupt) the electrical current in the event of a prolonged overcurrent (overcurrent protection) or thermal overload (overload protection). An electromagnetic release with a coil is used for brief tripping when an overcurrent limit is exceeded or in the event of a short circuit (short-circuit protection). One or more arc-quenching chambers or devices for arc quenching are provided. Furthermore, connection elements for conductors of the electrical circuit to be protected are provided.The tripping behavior of electromechanical circuit breakers is determined by the mechanical components they contain, such as bimetal strips (overload protection) and electromagnetic releases (e.g., trip coils or magnetic releases) (short-circuit protection). Tripping behavior refers to the current at which and after which time the circuit breaker automatically interrupts the circuit (= opens = switches off). Through their design, these electromechanical components define the tripping behavior of the protective device, which is determined during production. According to the standard, a circuit breaker exhibits a tripping behavior within a tripping range (= tripping characteristic) specified by the standard. This tripping behavior cannot be changed or adjusted, particularly after the circuit breaker has been installed.This is because the electrical planning takes the tripping behavior (tripping characteristic) of the miniature circuit breaker into account according to the standard for dimensioning the low-voltage circuit. If the tripping characteristic were to be changed, this could result in a cable cross-section (conductor cross-section) specified and installed in the electrical planning being no longer sufficient, and thus the safety of the cable (of the low-voltage circuit) no longer meeting the standard requirements. Miniature circuit breakers according to the DIN EN 60898 standard have a tripping range (tripping characteristic). In general, miniature circuit breakers are differentiated according to their tripping range in addition to their rated current and design. Currently, standardized tripping range types (tripping characteristic types) are marked with capital letters. For example, there are standardized tripping characteristic types B, C, D, or manufacturer-specific tripping characteristics such as A, E, K, or Z.For these manufacturer-specific tripping characteristics, the manufacturer tests and guarantees tripping within the range applicable to the characteristic. The electrical planner can use this to design (determine) the cross-section of the electrical cable of the low-voltage circuit and the appropriate line protection by means of a corresponding circuit breaker. A type B circuit breaker is currently a generally used circuit breaker (in Germany). It must have a nominal current I. nof, for example, 10 A or 16 A. This is then referred to as a so-called "B10" or "B16 line protection" (or "B16 circuit breaker"). This means that, for example, with a load current of 16 A, this must always be able to be handled by a B16 line protection device for an unlimited period of time. The exemplary tripping ranges (tripping characteristics) according to the standard serve to cover the response thresholds of the circuit breakers resulting from the electromechanically determined design => and the resulting tolerance limits => and consequently the resulting response thresholds in a practically standard-compliant manner. Thus, circuit breakers within a tripping range (tripping characteristic) always have slightly different tripping behavior (due to (tolerance) deviations in the electromechanically determined design). This logically applies both to circuit breakers from different manufacturers and to circuit breakers from the same manufacturer or even from the same production facility. Whereby theCircuit breakers must always comply with the tripping characteristic / trip range according to the standard (or manufacturer's specifications). A circuit breaker always has exactly one tripping range (one tripping characteristic), which cannot be changed. For example, a type B circuit breaker only has the type B tripping range according to the standard. This cannot be changed. This enables reliable planning of the electrical installation by specifying corresponding types with defined behavior in the planned electrical installation. Furthermore, the 202316301 5 operability and usability of the protective switching device by laypersons is ensured. Circuit breakers are also electromechanically constructed. In a housing, circuit breakers have mechanical switching contacts for interrupting (tripping) the electrical current. As a rule, a current measuring device is present, which is connected to an electronicA tripping device (Electronic Trip Unit – ETU) is connected. Alternatively, thermo-magnetic tripping devices (TMTU) (particularly with bimetal and magnetic releases) are also known for circuit breakers. The (electronic) tripping device ensures that the switching contacts open when current-time limit values ​​are exceeded. The current-time limit values ​​are permanently set in the electronic trip unit. One or more arc quenching chambers or devices for arc quenching are provided. Furthermore, connection elements for conductors of the electrical circuit to be protected are provided. According to the standard, circuit breakers do not have a tripping characteristic / no tripping range. The tripping characteristic must be designed or calculated as part of the electrical planning. The correct setting of the tripping characteristic must then be carried out by an appropriately trained specialist during installation or commissioning of the circuit breaker. This is calledIn this context, this also refers to "operability by non-laypersons." This means that a layperson may not operate or adjust the device. However, a tripping characteristic must be adjustable with specific current-time limit values. The tripping characteristic is adjustable over a range, possibly quite broad. This setting may only be made by trained electrical personnel (instructed specialists). Operation by laypersons (untrained persons) and use of circuit breakers by laypersons is neither intended nor permitted (high currents in circuit breakers, which can lead to massive property damage and personal injury if improperly adjusted and with incorrect tripping behavior). 202316301 6 The object of the present invention is to improve a miniature circuit breaker of the type mentioned above or a protective switching device, in particular to achieve greater flexibility with regard to tripping behavior. This object isby a protective switching device with the features of patent claim 1, as well as by a method according to patent claim 13. According to the invention, a protective switching device for standard-compliant line protection for low-voltage AC circuits is proposed, comprising: - a housing with at least one mains-side connection and at least one load-side connection, - a mechanical isolating contact unit connected in series with an (optional) electronic interruption unit, wherein the series connection is connected on the one hand to the at least one mains-side connection and on the other hand to the at least one load-side connection, - that the mechanical isolating contact unit can be switched by opening at least one contact to prevent a current flow or closing the at least one contact for a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit, - that the (optional) electronic interruption unit is connected bysemiconductor-based switching elements can be switched to a high-resistance state of the switching elements to prevent a current flow or a low-resistance state of the switching elements to allow current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit, - a current sensor unit for determining the level of the current in the low-voltage AC circuit, - a control unit connected to the current sensor unit, the mechanical isolating contact unit and the (optional) electronic interruption unit, whereby if specific tripping current-time limit values ​​forming a tripping curve are exceeded, the avoidance of a current flow is initiated, in particular by the (optional) 202316301 7 electronic interruption unit (of the low-voltage AC circuit), - that a standard for electrical installation material, in particular for circuit breakers, specifies a current-time limit value (current-time limit values ​​are time-current limit values ​​according to the standard),These are usually standard-relevant test points) specifies a tripping range (i.e. the tripping range is marked (or limited) by singular test points (current-time limit values), -that one tripping range is marked by (upper) current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and (lower) current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be maintained, -that the specific tripping current-time limit values ​​lie within the tripping range (i.e., for example, that the specific tripping current-time limit values ​​lie (exclusively) between the current-time limit values ​​for tripping and the current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping), (so that when the specific tripping current-time limit values, which in particular form a tripping curve, are exceeded, usually a Triggering occurs (if the value is below the limit, noTripping), so that the avoidance of a current flow in the low-voltage circuit is initiated, - that the protective switching device is designed such that at least one first tripping curve and one second tripping curve can be selected within one tripping range, so that a different tripping behavior can be selected within a normatively designated tripping range. This means that the protective switching device has two tripping curves, so that either the first tripping curve (with (first) specific current-time limit values) or the second tripping curve (with (second) specific current-time limit values) triggers a trip, i.e., the avoidance of a current flow (in the low-voltage AC circuit to be protected by the protective switching device), within the tripping range. The first tripping curve can, for example, have first specific current-time limit values ​​that are close to the current-time limit values ​​of theTripping or are (approximately) equal to the current-time limit values ​​for tripping. Thus, the protective switching device in the tripping range only trips when the required tripping is almost reached or (just before) reaching the standard-dependent, required tripping. This achieves a high level of supply reliability, since short-term exceedances within the tripping range do not yet lead to a current-preventing trip. The second tripping curve can, for example, have second specific current-time limit values ​​that are close to the current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping or are (approximately) equal to the current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping. Thus, the protective switching device in the tripping range trips shortly after leaving or upon leaving the standard-dependent, required (safe) current flow. This achieves a high level of reliability, since even short-term or minor exceedances within the tripping range cause a current-preventing trip. The tripping range isNot changeable on the circuit breaker side. Analogous to type B, C (and D) miniature circuit breakers typically available today (operable by laypersons, standardized tripping range for electrical planning). Electrical planning is based on the non-changeable tripping range of the circuit breaker. This has the advantage that the tripping behavior can be selected within a tripping range (a tripping characteristic, e.g., type B or type C), i.e., the tripping range is used for graduated tripping behavior. Graduated setting options can be set within the standard limits of the standardized tripping range. This means that the normatively defined tripping range can be used to achieve, for example, a more robust or more sensitive tripping behavior. This advantageously allows a layperson to change the tripping behavior within the tripping range in accordance with the standards. This is made possible in particular by aCurrent sensor unit and especially by an electronic interruption unit in conjunction with a corresponding control unit in the protective switching device. In this way, the tripping behavior can be changed without departing from the standard tripping behavior. A standard refers in particular to a manufacturer-specific standard or an EN (European standard) or a DIN standard, i.e., a voluntary standard developed under the leadership of the German Institute for Standardization (DIN), in which tangible and intangible objects are standardized. DIN standards arise from the suggestion and initiative of interested parties (usually the German economy), whereby agreement is achieved among all parties involved. A manufacturer-specific standard can, for example, be a specification or definition of a tripping behavior according to a data sheet, manual, or catalog (of the manufacturer). Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims and in theEmbodiment is given. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the mechanical isolating contact unit is assigned to the load-side connection and the electronic interruption unit is assigned to the mains-side connection. In particular, the mechanical isolating contact unit can be operated by a mechanical handle in order to switch an opening of the at least one contact or a closing of the at least one contact. This has the particular advantage that a structure for a protective switching device is provided in which the protective switching device functions even when the contacts of the mechanical isolating contact unit are open. 202316301 10 In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, two mains-side connections and at least one load-side connection are provided. In particular, a mains-side phase conductor connection, a mains-side neutral conductor connection and a load-side phase conductor connection are provided. This has theThe particular advantage is that a structure for a protective switching device is provided which, on the one hand, provides a power supply for the protective switching device and, on the other hand, enables a space-saving design due to only one switched pole. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, two mains-side connections and two load-side connections are provided. In particular, a mains-side neutral conductor connection, a mains-side phase conductor connection, a load-side neutral conductor connection, and a load-side phase conductor connection are provided. This has the particular advantage of providing a structure for a two-pole protective switching device, so that phase and neutral conductors can be connected directly and, for example, additional neutral conductor rails can be omitted. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit can be opened by the control unit, but cannotclosed. This has the particular advantage that a high level of safety of the protective switching device is ensured, since the contact cannot be closed incorrectly within the protective switching device. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit has an isolating function. This can be an isolating function provided in accordance with the standards. In particular, such that the at least one contact can be opened by the control unit, even if the mechanical 202316301 11 handle is blocked, e.g., if the handle for the closed contact state is / is blocked. This has the particular advantage that a high level of safety and, in particular, a standards-compliant protective switching device for low-voltage circuits is ensured. The current flow can be galvanically interrupted at any time by opening the at least one contact. In an advantageousIn one embodiment of the invention, a third tripping curve (standard) can be selected for the (one) tripping range within the tripping range. This allows a further tripping behavior to be selected within the (one) tripping range. This has the particular advantage that the tripping behavior can be further selected within a tripping range (a tripping characteristic, for example, type B or type C). This means that the tripping range is supplemented by a third tripping curve (with third specific current-time limit values), which can, for example, lie between the first and second tripping curves. This allows a more graduated tripping behavior to be achieved. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, at least one further tripping curve (or further tripping curves) can be selected within the tripping range in an analogous manner for the (one) tripping range. This allows at least one further tripping behavior (or further tripping behaviors) to be selected within a tripping range.selectable. This has the particular advantage that the tripping behavior within a tripping range can be selected more granularly, achieving a higher granularity. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the standard for the standard-compliant protective switching device or for the standard-compliant line protection is the standard for miniature circuit breakers DIN EN 60898, in particular DIN EN 60898-1 or DIN EN 60898-2. 202316301 12 Alternatively, the standard for the standard-compliant protective switching device or for the standard-compliant line protection is a manufacturer-specific standard (for miniature circuit breakers). This has the particular advantage that standard-compliant tripping ranges (tripping characteristics) are available, for example type B, type C, which can be further staggered according to the invention, in particular for laypersons to operate. In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the control unit has a microprocessor and a memory. The tripping curve (tripping characteristics)are stored in the control unit, in particular in its memory. This has the particular advantage that only one previously stored characteristic curve can be selected as the tripping curve, thus achieving a previously known and tested tripping behavior. All stored characteristic curves can be checked, for example, during certification (according to standard tests). This ensures that a specific tripping occurs according to the standard (even with different characteristic curves). In an advantageous embodiment of the invention, the protective switching device is designed such that the current flow-preventing tripping occurs through a high-resistance state of the switching elements of the electronic interruption unit, in particular when at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit remains closed. This has the particular advantage that fast and flexible current flow prevention is provided and the switching times of amechanical current flow avoidance. According to the invention, a corresponding method for a protective switching device for a low-voltage AC circuit, in particular with electronic (semiconductor-based) switching elements with the same and further advantages is claimed. 202316301 13 The method for a protective switching device for standard-compliant line protection for low-voltage AC circuits is characterized in that: - when specific tripping current-time limit values ​​forming a tripping curve are exceeded, a current flow-preventing tripping of the protective switching device is initiated, - a standard for electrical installation material specifies current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be maintained, which characterize a tripping range, - that thespecific tripping current-time limit values ​​lie within the tripping range, - that at least one first tripping curve (Robust) and one second tripping curve (Sensitive) can be selected for the tripping range, so that different tripping behavior can be selected within a normatively designated tripping range (in or on the protective switching device). A third tripping curve (Standard) can advantageously be selected for the tripping range. The current flow-preventing tripping of the protective switching device advantageously occurs through a high-resistance state of switching elements of an electronic interruption unit, in particular when at least one contact of a mechanical isolating contact unit remains closed. All embodiments, both in dependent form referring back to patent claim 1 or 13, as well as referring back only to individual features or combinations of features of patent-The described properties, features and advantages of this invention, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer and more easily understandable in connection with the following description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained in more detail in connection with the drawing. The drawing shows: Figure 1 a first representation of a protective switching device, Figure 2 a first representation of a diagram, Figure 3 a second representation of a diagram, Figure 4 a third representation of a diagram. Figure 1 shows a representation of a novel protective switching device SG for line protection forProtection of an electrical low-voltage alternating current circuit, with a housing GEH, comprising: - a mains-side neutral conductor connection NG, a mains-side phase conductor connection LG, a load-side neutral conductor connection NL, a load-side phase conductor connection LL of the low-voltage circuit; an energy source is usually connected to the grid side Grid, and a consumer (an energy sink) is usually connected to the load side Load; - a (two-pole) mechanical isolating contact unit MK with load-side connection points APLL, APNL and mains-side connection points APLG, APNG, whereby a load-side connection point APNL is provided for the neutral conductor, a load-side connection point APLL is provided for the phase conductor, a mains-side connection point 202316301 15 APNG is provided for the neutral conductor, and a mains-side connection point APLG is provided for the phase conductor. The load-side connection points APNL, APLL are connected to the load-side neutral andPhase conductor connections NL, LL are connected so that the opening of contacts KKN, KKL to prevent a current flow or the closing of the contacts for a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit can be switched, the mechanical isolating contact unit can also be designed as a single-pole mechanical isolating contact unit, i.e. with one contact, whereby the contact KKL is preferably arranged in the phase conductor L, a neutral conductor N passing through the protective switching device SG is then not provided, - a, in particular single-pole, electronic interruption unit EU, (which in the single-pole version is arranged in particular in the phase conductor L) with a mains-side connection point EUG, which is electrically connected to the mains-side phase conductor connection LG, and a load-side connection point EUL, which is electrically connected or connected to the mains-side connection point APLG of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK, wherebythe electronic interruption unit has a high-resistance state of the switching elements to prevent a current flow or a low-resistance state of the switching elements to prevent a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit by means of semiconductor-based switching elements, - a current sensor unit SI, for determining the level of the current in the low-voltage AC circuit, which is arranged in particular in the phase conductor L, - a control unit SE, which is connected to the current sensor unit SI, the mechanical isolating contact unit MK and the electronic interruption unit EU, wherein if specific tripping current-time limit values ​​forming a tripping curve are exceeded, the avoidance of a current flow is initiated, - that a standard for electrical installation material specifies current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and 202316301 16 current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping, so that aCurrent flow in the low-voltage alternating current circuit must be conducted, which characterize a tripping range, - that the specific tripping current time limit values ​​lie within the tripping range, - that the protective switching device is designed according to the invention such that at least one first tripping curve (Robust) and one second tripping curve (Sensitive) can be selected within the tripping range for the tripping range, so that a different tripping behavior can be selected within a normatively designated tripping range. The protective switching device is advantageously designed such that the current flow-preventing tripping of both the first tripping curve and the second tripping curve occurs through a high-resistance state of the switching elements of the electronic interruption unit EU. In particular, when the at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK remains closed. Advantageously, for the (oneTripping range), a third tripping curve (standard) can be selected within the tripping range. This means that another tripping behavior can be selected within a tripping range. In a similar way, at least one further tripping curve can be selected for the tripping range within the tripping range. In a similar way, further tripping curves. This means that at least one further tripping behavior can be selected within the tripping range. The standard for the standard-compliant protective switching device is advantageously the standard for miniature circuit breakers DIN EN 60898, in particular DIN EN 60898-1 or DIN EN 60898-2. Alternatively, a manufacturer-specific standard. The protective switching device SG can furthermore be designed such that a temperature sensor TS connected to the control unit SE is provided in the protective switching device SG. 202316301 17 In particular, the temperature sensor TS is provided or arranged in the electronic interruption unit EU, as indicated in Figure 1.Furthermore, a first voltage sensor unit SUA connected to the control unit SE can be provided, which determines the voltage level, in particular instantaneous values ​​of the voltage level, of the low-voltage circuit, in particular at the mains-side connections LG, NG, specifically between the mains-side neutral conductor connection NG and the mains-side phase conductor connection LG. The electronic interruption unit EU is advantageously switched to a low-resistance state when the magnitude of the instantaneous value of the voltage level falls below a first voltage limit, which is in particular less than or equal to 50 volts (or 25 volts or 10 volts). Generally, the mechanical isolating contact unit MK and the electronic interruption unit EU form a series circuit. The series circuit is connected, on the one hand, to at least one mains-side connection and, on the other hand, to at least one load-side connection. The mechanical isolating contact unit MKcan advantageously be assigned to the load-side connection and the electronic interruption unit EU to the mains-side connection, as shown in Figure 1. The mechanical isolating contact unit MK can be operated by a mechanical handle HH to switch the opening or closing of contacts, as with a conventional miniature circuit breaker or MCB. The control unit can have a microprocessor and a memory. The tripping curves can then be stored in the control unit, in particular in the memory. The selected tripping curve can be taken from the memory. The values ​​of the selected tripping curve are compared with the determined level of the fault current in the control unit (e.g., with the help of the microprocessor). If 202316301 18 is exceeded, a current flow-preventing trip is initiated. In the example according to Figure 1, the electronic interruptionThe EU protection unit is designed as a single-pole unit, in the example in the phase conductor. The mains-side connection point APNG for the neutral conductor of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK is connected to the mains-side neutral conductor connection NG of the housing GEH. In a single-pole version of the protective switching device SG, this connection can be omitted, as can the neutral conductor contact KKN of the mechanical isolating contact unit. The protective switching device SG is advantageously designed such that the contacts of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK can be opened but not closed by the control unit SE, which is indicated by an arrow from the control unit SE to the mechanical isolating contact unit MK. The mechanical isolating contact unit MK can be operated by a mechanical handle HH on the protective switching device SG to manually open or close the contacts KKL, KKN. The mechanical handle HH shows (in the unblockedState) (specifically through a mechanical connection between contacts and handle) indicates the switching state (open or closed) of the contacts of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK on the protective switching device. The mechanical isolating contact unit MK is advantageously designed such that (manual) closing of the contacts by the mechanical handle is only possible after an enable, in particular an enable signal. This means that the contacts KKL, KKN of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK can only be closed by the handle HH when the enable or the enable signal (from the control unit SE) is present. Without the enable or the 202316301 19 enable signal, the handle HH can be operated, but the contacts cannot be closed ("permanent slipping"). The protective switching device SG has a power supply NT (not shown), for example a power supply unit. In particular, the power supply NT is for the control unit SEprovided. The power supply NT is connected, for example, to the mains-side neutral conductor connection NG and the mains-side phase conductor connection LG. A fuse, in particular a safety fuse, and / or a switch can advantageously be provided in the connection to the mains-side neutral conductor connection NG (and / or phase conductor connection LG). In the case of a purely single-pole protective switching device, the power supply is provided by an external power source / other connections. High-resistance refers to a state in which only a negligible current flows. In particular, high-resistance refers to resistance values ​​greater than 1 kiloohm, preferably greater than 10 kiloohms, 100 kiloohms, 1 megaohm, 10 megaohms, 100 megaohms, 1 gigaohm or greater. Low-resistance refers to a state in which the current value specified on the protective switching device could flow. In particular, low-resistance refers to resistance values ​​less than 10 ohms, preferably less than1 ohm, 100 milliohms, 10 milliohms, 1 milliohm or smaller. The mechanical isolating contact unit MK can, in a first variant, interrupt single-pole. This means that only one conductor (of the two / several conductors), in particular the active conductor or phase conductor, is interrupted, i.e., it has a mechanical contact. The neutral conductor is then contact-free, i.e., the neutral conductor is directly connected. In a second variant of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK, the neutral conductor also has mechanical 202316301 20 contacts (two-pole interruption), as shown in Figure 1. The term "mechanical isolating contact unit MK" particularly refers to a (standard-compliant) isolating function, implemented by the isolating contact unit MK. The isolating function includes the following points: -Minimum air gap according to the standard (minimum distance between the contacts), -(mechanical) contact position indication of the contacts of the mechanical isolating contact unit, -Trip-free or isolating functionality, i.e.This means that actuation to interrupt the contacts of the mechanical isolating contact unit by the handle or control unit is always possible, so that no (permanent) blocking of the contacts in the closed state by the handle is possible. In particular, trip-free or release functionality means that at least one contact can be opened by the control unit, even if the mechanical handle is blocked (e.g., in the on state). Furthermore, the standard-compliant isolating function can include the ability to lock the isolating contact unit or the handle in the on or off state. Regarding the minimum air gap between the contacts of the isolating contact unit, this is essentially voltage-dependent. Other parameters are the degree of contamination, the type of field (homogeneous, inhomogeneous), and the air pressure or altitude above sea level. There arecorresponding (further) regulations or standards. These (further) regulations specify, for example, the minimum clearance for an inhomogeneous and a homogeneous (ideal) electric field in air for impulse voltage resistance, depending on the degree of pollution. The impulse voltage resistance is the strength when a corresponding impulse voltage is applied. Only if this minimum length 202316301 21 (minimum distance) is present does the isolating contact unit or protective switching device have an isolating function (isolating property). Within the meaning of the invention, the DIN EN 60947 or IEC 60947 series of standards may be particularly relevant for the isolating function and its properties. The isolating contact unit is advantageously characterized by a minimum clearance of the open isolating contacts in the OFF position (open position, open contacts) depending on the rated impulse voltage resistance and the degree of pollution.The minimum clearance is in particular between (at least) 0.01 mm and 14 mm. In particular, the minimum clearance is advantageously between 0.01 mm at 0.33 kV and 14 mm at 12 kV, in particular for pollution degree 1 and in particular for inhomogeneous fields. A mechanical isolating contact unit does not, in particular, mean a relay contact. The protective switching device can have a (in particular wireless) communication unit COM, which is connected to the control unit SE or is a part thereof. Furthermore, a display unit AE can be provided. The display unit AE can be designed as a combined display and input unit. The display unit AE (display and input unit) is connected to the control unit SE or is a part thereof. The display unit has visible display means on the protective switching device, in particular for displaying the high-resistance or low-resistance state of the electronicEU interruption unit. With a combined display and input unit, the first or second (or third / further) tripping curve can be selected, for example. 202316301 22 Alternatively or additionally, the first or second (or third / further) tripping curve can be selected, for example, using the COM communication unit. The standard for standard-compliant line protection can advantageously be the standard for miniature circuit breakers DIN EN 60898 (VDE 0641-11) "Electrical installation material – Miniature circuit breakers for household installations and similar purposes." Part 1 covers "Miniature circuit breakers for alternating current (AC). German version: EN 60898-1. Table 7 below (Section 8.6.1. - Standardized time-current characteristic range, pages 50 / 51 and 58 / 59) is taken from the above-mentioned standard, version from 2019. The tripping characteristics of miniature circuit breakers (MCBs) must provide adequate protection of the circuit.without premature tripping. The range of the time-current characteristic of a miniature circuit breaker is defined by the specifications and the values ​​given in Table 7. This table refers to a miniature circuit breaker (MCB) that is mounted in accordance with the reference conditions and that operates at the reference calibration temperature of 30 °C with a limit deviation of +5 / 0 °C. The tests may be carried out at a suitable temperature; the results are referred to 30 °C according to the manufacturer's specifications. In no case may the deviation of the test current according to the table exceed 71.2% per K of the calibration temperature deviation. If the miniature circuit breakers are marked with a calibration temperature deviating from 30 °C, they are tested at this deviating temperature. In the table: - "Test" means the designation of a test point by a lowercase letter, where thisA respective current-time limit value is assigned to each test point, -with "Type" (B, C, D) the type of circuit breaker, whereby a type has a tripping range which is characterized by current-time limit values ​​for tripping (test points), so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping (test points), so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be maintained, -with "Test current" the level of the test current related to the nominal current of the circuit breaker / protective switching device, ie the current limit value (of the current-time limit value), -with "Initial state" the state of the circuit breaker / protective switching device at the start of the test, -with "Limits of the tripping or non-tripping time" the time limit value (of the current-time limit value) for tripping or Non-triggering -with “Result to be achieved” a triggering (triggering) or non-triggering (no triggering), -withRemarks other comments on the respective table item.

[0002] 202316301 24 Test points c and d are further subdivided into c1, d1 for non-tripping and c2, d2 for tripping, depending on their results. Further points and explanations can be found in the standard. Figure 2 shows a diagram illustrating a current-time response. The ratio I / I is shown on the horizontal x-axis. N the level of current I to the rated current I N (rated current) of the miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device. The current I is expressed as a multiple of the rated current I N (rated current). This ratio I / I Nis shown logarithmically in the diagram. 202316301 25 The tripping time t is shown on the vertical Y-axis, with seconds / sec for the seconds range and minutes / min for the minutes range. The tripping time t is shown logarithmically in the diagram. In Figure 2, the test points in the "Test" column are shown in Table 7 above from the standard, i.e. the current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and the current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping, so that current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be maintained. The current-time limit values ​​for tripping (b, c2, d2) are marked in Figure 2 by a square standing on its tip (diamond shape). The current-time limit values ​​of non-tripping (a, c1, d1) are marked by a circle in the figure.Example of a type B miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device. This results in a tripping range marked by the test points, which is identified by straight lines drawn accordingly. In the left-hand part of the diagram, from the origin of the diagram to the straight lines formed by the test points a, c1 and d1, is the non-tripping range ON; up to these current time limit values ​​(a current is present for the defined time) a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must or should be (safely) conducted through the miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device. In the right-hand part of the diagram, from the right or top right edge to the straight lines formed by the test points b, c2, d2 and e, is the tripping range (range of tripping) OFF; from these current time limit values ​​(a current is present for the defined time) a current must or should beIf a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit is to be (safely) prevented by a miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device 202316301 26, tripping must have occurred beforehand (but not in the non-tripping area). Between the non-tripping area ON and the tripping area (tripped area) OFF is the tripping area AB. In this (transitional) area between (safe) current conduction and (safe) current avoidance, tripping usually occurs. This means that a current can still be conducted here, or tripping can occur here, although the exact current-time limit value for tripping is not further defined. It is important that in the non-tripping area, a current is (safely) conducted (no tripping occurs) and in the tripping area (tripped area), the current is safely avoided (tripping has occurred beforehand). This meansIn the tripping area AB there are specific tripping current time limits at which tripping (prevention of current flow) occurs by the protective switching device. These specific tripping current time limits form a tripping curve of the miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device. As an example, such a tripping curve AK (standard) is shown in Figure 2. Figure 3 shows a diagram according to Figure 2, with the difference that additional tripping curves are shown. Firstly, a first tripping curve Robust and a second tripping curve Sensitive. Both are arranged within the tripping area AB. The first tripping curve Robust is close to the right-hand area of ​​the tripping OFF so that higher currents or currents can be carried for a longer time (or higher currents can be carried for a longer time). In this way, tripping only occurs shortly before the area of ​​the (mandatory) tripping OFF.The second tripping curve Sensitive is close to the left of the non-tripping ON area, so that even when the 202316301 27 non-tripping ON area is left, small overcurrents or the brief presence of overcurrents lead to tripping (or small overcurrents lead to tripping over a short time). This means that tripping occurs shortly after leaving the non-tripping ON area. In Figure 3, a third tripping curve Standard is also provided within the tripping area AB, which is located approximately in the middle of the tripping area AB. This means that another tripping behavior can be selected within the tripping area. In a similar way, other tripping curves can be provided within the tripping area. This means that at least one other tripping behavior can be selected within the tripping area. The tripping curves within the tripping area (example tripping area type B) are on orfor the protective switching device, especially by a layperson. The current flow-preventing tripping is advantageously achieved by a high-resistance state of the switching elements of the electronic interruption unit EU. In particular, when at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit MK remains closed. Figure 4 shows a diagram according to Figures 3 and 2 in a slightly different representation with entered information on the test points. The tripping range of a miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device is used to carry out the (standardized or safe) electrical planning of a low-voltage circuit or a corresponding system. According to the invention, at least two tripping characteristics are stored, for example in the control unit, so that the tripping behavior can be changed within certain limits (of the tripping range) by laypersons. 202316301 28 For miniature circuit breakers, there are, for example: -Type A, which e.g.between 2 to 3 times the rated current, -type B, which trips, for example, between 3 to 5 times the rated current, -type C, which trips, for example, between 5 to 10 times the rated current, -type D, which trips, for example, between 10 to 20 times the rated current. These tripping ranges, which originally come from electromechanical line protection, are advantageously used according to the invention. The invention and further aspects are described in other words below. Circuit breakers according to DIN EN 60898 with an adjustable current range are generally not permitted. Nevertheless, the standard specifies a tripping range, so that today's devices which have the same rated current and the same tripping range (the same tripping characteristic, e.g. type B, C, D) can still exhibit different tripping behavior. The standard results in three ranges. A non-tripping range in which the protective switching device must safely carry current.A second tripping range (tripped state), in which the current must be safely interrupted. An intermediate range characterizes the so-called tripping range. The tripping of the protective switching device must lie within this intermediate range in order to comply with the standard according to the type. However, it is unclear how the tripping characteristic curve runs in this tripping range / intermediate range. Test points or current-time limit values: Test currents and test times defined by a standard, which together result in a test point or current-time limit value. 202316301 29 Current-time limit value of non-tripping (small circle in Figures 2 and 3): Test point at which the protective switching device must not trip with the test current flowing up to the test time. Current-time limit value of tripping (square standing on its tip in Figures 2 and 3): Test point at which the protective switching device must trip with the test current carried up to the test time.Current-time limits: (Continuous) limit of current-time values ​​that are defined by the test points. (Lower) current-time limit of non-tripping: (Continuous) limit of current-time values ​​up to (or at) which the protective switching device must not trip. (Upper) current-time limit of tripping (tripped state): (Continuous) limit of current-time values ​​up to (or at) which the protective switching device must have tripped. Ranges: Ranges of current-time values ​​that are defined by the current-time limits. Tripping range (tripped state): Range that results from the (standard) test points in which the current must be safely interrupted. Non-tripping range: Range that results from the test points in which the current must be safely conducted. Tripping range: Intermediate range between the non-tripping range and the tripping range (tripped state).Using electronic measurement technology (current sensor unit) and digital algorithms (control unit) of a novel electronic protective switching device, various tripping characteristics can be implemented according to the invention. 202316301 30 Figure 3 shows examples of what such an implementation might look like. The three tripping characteristics or operating modes: "Standard," "Sensitive," and "Robust," could be offered and selected via a simplified setting option on the protective switching device. The tripping behavior is defined by a corresponding digital algorithm (e.g., in the device firmware of the control unit). According to the invention, it is now possible to subsequently change the tripping behavior of the protective switching device within existing standard limits.The invention enables a simple modification of the tripping behavior without altering the standardized tripping characteristic of the protective switching device (which was used for the electrical planning of the system). This results in a setting option for an electronic miniature circuit breaker / protective switching device that complies with existing standards. Since the modification of the tripping behavior is implemented in such a way that the standardized tripping range (the standardized tripping characteristic) is not changed, this modification option can be made available in a simplified form even to laypersons. Although the invention has been illustrated and described in detail by the exemplary embodiment, the invention is not limited by the disclosed examples, and other variations can be derived therefrom by those skilled in the art without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

202316301 31 Patent Claims 1. A protective switching device for standard-compliant line protection for low-voltage AC circuits, comprising: - a housing (GEH) with at least one mains-side connection and at least one load-side connection, - a mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) connected in series with an electronic interruption unit (EU), wherein the series connection is connected on the one hand to the at least one mains-side connection and on the other hand to the at least one load-side connection, - that the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) can be switched by opening at least one contact to prevent a current flow or closing the at least one contact for a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit,- that the electronic interruption unit (EU) can be switched by semiconductor-based switching elements into a high-resistance state of the switching elements to prevent a current flow or a low-resistance state of the switching elements to allow current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit, - a current sensor unit (SI) to determine the current level of the low-voltage AC circuit, - a control unit (SE) connected to the current sensor unit (SI), the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) and the electronic interruption unit (EU), whereby if specific tripping current-time limit values ​​forming a tripping curve are exceeded, the avoidance of a current flow is initiated, - that a standard for electrical installation material specifies current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping,so that a current flow must be conducted in the low-voltage alternating current circuit, which characterises a tripping range, - that the specific tripping current time limit values ​​are within the tripping range, - that the protective switching device is designed in such a way, 202316301 32 that for the tripping range, at least one first tripping curve (Robust) and one second tripping curve (Sensitive) can be selected within the tripping range, so that a different tripping behavior can be selected within a normatively identified tripping range.

2. Protective switching device (SG) according to claim 1, characterized in that the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) is assigned to the load-side connection and the electronic interruption unit (EU) is assigned to the mains-side connection.

3. Protective switching device (SG) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that two mains-side connections and at least one load-side connection are provided.

4. Protective switching device (SG) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that two mains-side connections and two load-side connections are provided. 5.Protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) can be opened but not closed by the control unit (SE).

6. Protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) can be operated by a mechanical handle (HH) in order to switch an opening of the at least one contact or a closing of the at least one contact. 202316301 33 7. The protective switching device (SG) according to claim 6, characterized in that the at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) has a release functionality such that the at least one contact is opened by the control unit (SE), even if the mechanical handle (HH) is blocked.

8. The protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a third tripping curve (standard) can be selected within the tripping range for the tripping range, so that a further tripping behavior can be selected within the tripping range.

9. The protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one further tripping curve can be selected within the tripping range for the tripping range, so that at least one further tripping behavior can be selected within the tripping range. 10.Protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the standard is the standard for miniature circuit breakers DIN EN 60898, in particular DIN EN 60898-1 or DIN EN 60898-2, or is a manufacturer-specific standard.

11. Protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the control unit has a microprocessor and a memory, and that the tripping curves are stored in the control unit. 202316301 34 12. A protective switching device (SG) according to one of the preceding patent claims, characterized in that the protective switching device is designed such that the current-flow-preventing tripping occurs due to a high-resistance state of the switching elements of the electronic interruption unit (EU), in particular when at least one contact of the mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) remains closed.

13. A method for a protective switching device for standard-compliant line protection for low-voltage AC circuits, - that when specific tripping current-time limit values ​​forming a tripping curve are exceeded, a current-flow-preventing tripping of the protective switching device is initiated, - that a standard for electrical installation material specifies current-time limit values ​​for tripping, so that a current flow in the low-voltage AC circuit must be avoided, and current-time limit values ​​for non-tripping,so that a current flow must be conducted in the low-voltage alternating current circuit, which characterize a tripping range, - that the specific tripping current time limit values ​​lie within the tripping range, - that at least one first tripping curve (Robust) and one second tripping curve (Sensitive) can be selected for the tripping range within the tripping range, so that a different tripping behavior can be selected within a normatively designated tripping range.

14. Method according to claim 13, characterized in that a third tripping curve (Standard) can be selected for the tripping range within the tripping range.

15. Method according to claim 13 or 14, characterized in 202316301 35 that the current flow-preventing tripping of the protective switching device occurs due to a high-resistance state of switching elements of an electronic interruption unit (EU), in particular when at least one contact of a mechanical isolating contact unit (MK) remains closed.

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