Adapter module, adapter system and power supply system for electrical installations

Abstract

An adapter module comprises a plurality of first connection terminals for connection to an electric circuit comprising at least one load, a relevant control push-button, a reset push-button and a set push-button. The adapter module further comprises a plurality of second connection terminals which are configured to connect the adapter module to an electromechanical relay and a control circuit which includes a monostable relay and a plurality of passive electronic devices. The monostable relay comprises a first control device and a diverter switch and is configured so as to take up a rest configuration, in which the first control device is switched off and the diverter switch interconnects the reset push-button to the electromechanical relay, and an operative configuration, in which the first control device is switched on and the diverter switch comprises a branch which interconnects the reset push-button to the electromechanical relay. The control circuit is configured in such a manner that, following the set push-button being switched on, a passage of electric current takes place only when the monostable relay is in the rest configuration.

Description

[0001] ADAPTER MODULE , ADAPTER SYSTEM AND POWER SUPPLY SYSTEM FOR ELECTRICAL INSTALLATIONS

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] The present invention relates to an adapter module for electromechanical relays . In particular , the present invention relates to an adapter module for integrating operational functionalities in an existing relay of the electromechanical type with logic control functions for the electrical loads , such as , for example , SET , wherein all the electrical loads which are connected to the adapter are supplied by an electric power supply, or RESET , wherein all the electrical loads which are connected to the adapter are disconnected from the electric power supply .

[0004] Relays are devices which, when they are controlled by means of a power supply circuit , bring about a variation in one or more circuits which are controlled thereby . A particular category of relay is defined as being electromechanical as a result of the operating principle thereof , in particular they are devices comprising an electromagnet , such as , for example , a coil , the magnetic field of which, when it is subj ected to current variations , for example , by means of variations of the power supply upstream of the circuit , modifies the positioning thereof involving the triggering of one or more switches , which consequently modify the layout of the relevant circuit . Typically, if there is encountered the need for controlling from several points the circuit to which the relay is connected, such as , for example , for a lighting installation of a domestic or industrial consumer, there are used relays of the latching type . Furthermore , a different type of relay is electronic , that is to say, relays provided with circuit components in the solid state of the active type , which can be controlled in terms of voltage or current and which rapidly and reliably allow control of a plurality of loads by means of one or more control points .

[0005] In the present description and in the claims appended thereto , a number of terms and expressions are considered to take up, unless different explicit indications are set out , the significance expressed in the following definitions .

[0006] The term "electrical continuity" between a pair of components in a circuit is intended to be understood to mean that the circuit has a conductive path through which electric current can flow .

[0007] The term "connection" and generally the verb "connect" in relation to an electric / electronic circuit or component are intended to be understood to mean the j oining and the action of j oining two or more nodes of an electric or electronic circuit , respectively .

[0008] The term "disconnection" and generally the verb "disconnect" in relation to an electric / electronic circuit or component are intended to be understood to mean the separation and the action of separating two or more nodes of an electric or electronic circuit , respectively . The term "push-button" is intended to be understood to mean an element which is configured to temporarily modify the state of the branch of the circuit in which it is installed . Basically, it acts as a control element which is capable of closing the individual terminals when it is actuated . The term "push-button" includes both a physical element which can be actuated manually by a user, for example , a button, and elements which can be actuated remotely and which in any case close terminals temporarily when actuated . When a "push-button" is actuated, therefore , it means that the terminals thereof are closed .

[0009] The term "operatively connected" is intended to be understood to mean a connection between two or more devices or elements , which are both connected by means of modifications to the configuration of the circuit and coordinated to perform a function, exchanging signals and / or instructions between them .

[0010] The term "adapter module" is intended to be understood to mean an additional component which can be connected to an electric system which is already in existence and which can be suitably controlled in order to implement new logic functions in the electric system to which it is connected or to make the control thereof by a user easier . Therefore , the adapter module can be installed as an additional component with respect to other elements which, in the absence of the addition of the module , would not be provided with the same functionalities , though being usable elements , in the absence of the adapter module , for different obj ects or functions . The term "connection terminals" or more generally simply the term "terminal" is intended to be understood to mean physical means , via which a component can be connected to another component , such as , for example , clamps or connectors . Particularly, the connection terminals allow signals to be transmitted between the components which connect and are used by an installer or user during the installation step of the component for connecting it to other elements which form an installation, a circuit or other type of system.

[0011] The term "reset" is intended to be understood to mean a logic function with which all the electrical loads which are connected to an electric power supply source are disconnected .

[0012] The term "set" is intended to be understood to mean a logic function with which all the electrical loads which are connected to an adapter are supplied by an electric power supply .

[0013] Therefore , the Applicant has perceived the requirement to control the power supply of a plurality of loads by means of a single control point .

[0014] Therefore , the Applicant has perceived the requirement to provide the existing electrical installations which are provided with relays with additional functionalities .

[0015] In the context of such a requirement , the Applicant has realized that the possibility of disconnecting a plurality of loads by actuating a single control point may simplify the ways of using the installation .

[0016] In the context of such a requirement , the Applicant has realized that the possibility of connecting a plurality of loads by actuating a single control point may simplify the ways of using the installation . The term "electrical continuity" between a pair of components in a circuit is intended to be understood to mean that the circuit has a conductive path through which electric current can flow .

[0017] The term "connection" or "connected" is intended to be understood to mean the j oining or the action of j oining two or more nodes of an electric or electronic circuit , respectively .

[0018] The term "disconnection" or "disconnected" is intended to be understood to mean the separation or the action of separating two or more nodes of an electric or electronic circuit , respectively . The term "push-button" is intended to be understood to mean an element which is configured to temporarily modify the state of the branch of the circuit in which it is installed . Basically, it acts as a switch which closes the individual terminals when it is actuated The term "push-button" is not intended in any way to be a limitation to the single physical element which can be actuated manually by a user, for example , a button, but is also intended to include elements which can be actuated remotely and which in any case close terminals temporarily when they are actuated . Therefore , when a "push-button" is actuated, this means that the terminals thereof are closed . The term "operatively connected" is intended to be understood to mean a connection between two or more devices or elements , which both are or can be connected by means of modifications to the configuration of the circuit and are coordinated to perform a function, exchanging signals and / or instructions between them.

[0019] The term "adapter module" is intended to be understood to mean an additional component which can be connected to an electric system which is already in existence and which can be suitably controlled in order to implement new logic functions in the electric system to which it is connected or to make the control thereof by a user easier .

[0020] The term "connection terminals" is intended to be understood to mean connection interfaces , via which a component can be connected to another component , such as , for example , terminals , clamps or connectors . Particularly, the connection terminals allow signals to be transmitted between the components which connect them.

[0021] The technical problem forming the basis of the present invention is therefore to provide an adapter module which is structurally and functionally configured to at least partially overcome one or more of the disadvantages set out with reference to the cited prior art . In the context of this problem, an obj ect of the present invention is to provide an adapter module for electromechanical relays comprising the logic reset function . In particular, the logic reset function is directed towards the possibility of switching off a plurality of electrical loads by actuating a single control point . In the context of this problem, an obj ect of the present invention is to provide an adapter module for electromechanical relays comprising the logic set function . In particular , the logic set function is directed towards the possibility of switching on a plurality of electrical loads by actuating a single control point . An additional obj ect of the present invention is to provide an adapter module for electromechanical relays comprising only electronic components of the passive type .

[0022] An obj ect of the present invention is to provide an adapter module which signals the presence of electrical loads which are switched on .

[0023] Another obj ect of the present invention is to provide an adapter module which is economical and certainly reliable to use .

[0024] This problem is solved and at least one of these obj ects is at least partially achieved by the invention, in a first aspect , by means of an adapter module which comprises a plurality of first connection terminals which are configured to connect the adapter module to an electric circuit .

[0025] Preferably, the plurality of first connection terminals comprises a reset terminal , a control terminal and a set terminal .

[0026] Preferably, the electric circuit comprises at least one load, a relevant control push-button, a reset push-button and a set pushbutton .

[0027] Preferably, the adapter module comprises a plurality of second connection terminals which are configured to connect the adapter module to an electromechanical relay . Preferably, the plurality of second connection terminals comprises an additional terminal . Preferably, the adapter module comprises a control circuit . Preferably, the control circuit comprises a monostable relay and a plurality of passive electronic devices . Preferably, the passive electronic devices are operatively interconnected to the monostable relay .

[0028] Preferably, the first and second connection terminals are interconnected to the control circuit .

[0029] Preferably, the first and second connection terminals are operatively interconnected to the control circuit .

[0030] Preferably, the monostable relay comprises a first control device and a switch . Preferably, the switch is of the diverter switch type . Preferably, the switch is actuated by the first control device .

[0031] Preferably, the monostable relay is configured so as to take up a rest configuration and an operative configuration .

[0032] Preferably, according to the rest configuration the control device is switched off and the diverter switch interconnects the set pushbutton to the electromechanical relay .

[0033] Preferably, according to the operative configuration the first control device is switched on and the diverter switch comprises a branch which interconnects the reset push-button to the electromechanical relay .

[0034] Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the reset push-button being switched on, there is allowed a passage of electric current between the electromechanical relay and the reset push-button only when the monostable relay is in the operative configuration .

[0035] Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the actuation of the set push-button, a passage of electric current takes place both when the monostable relay is in the operative configuration and when it is in the rest configuration .

[0036] Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the actuation of the set push-button, a passage of electric current takes place only when the monostable relay is in the rest configuration .

[0037] Preferably, the monostable relay is configured in such a manner as to take up a rest configuration, in which the first control device is switched off and in which the diverter switch interconnects the set push-button to the second connection terminals , by means of which the adapter module can be connected to the electromechanical relay .

[0038] Preferably, the monostable relay is configured in such a manner as to take up an operative configuration, in which the first control device is switched on and preferably the diverter switch comprises a branch which interconnects the additional terminal of the second plurality of connection terminals , by means of which the adapter module can be connected to the electromechanical relay .

[0039] Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the reset push-button being switched on, the reset terminal is in electrical continuity with the additional connection terminal so as to allow a passage of electric current between the additional terminal , to which the electromechanical relay can be connected, and the reset terminal , to which the reset push-button can be connected, only when the monostable relay is in the operative configuration .

[0040] Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the actuation of the control push-button, the control terminal is in electrical continuity with the additional terminal so as to allow a passage of electric current both when the monostable relay is in the operative configuration and when it is in the rest configuration . Preferably, the control circuit is configured in such a manner that , following the actuation of the set push-button, the set terminal is in electrical continuity with the additional terminal so as to allow a passage of electric current only when the monostable relay is in the rest configuration .

[0041] As a result of these features , it is possible to control an electric power supply circuit so as to selectively switch on an electromechanical relay . As a result of these features , it is possible to connect the adapter module to an existing electromechanical relay .

[0042] This is because , as mentioned above , the control circuit is advantageously configured in such a manner that , following the actuation of the reset push-button, there is allowed a passage of electric current in the first switch only when a monostable relay is in the operative configuration in such a manner that the at least one load, or all the electrical loads connected to the adapter module if a plurality of loads are present , is / are switched off , that is to say, disconnected from the electric power supply by means of which they are actuated .

[0043] Based on an additional aspect , the present invention also relates to an adapter system for performing reset and set functions in a plurality of electromechanical relays .

[0044] Preferably, the adapter system comprises a reset device comprising a reset push-button which is configured to simultaneously actuate each electromechanical relay .

[0045] Preferably, the adapter system comprises a set device which comprises a set push-button which is configured to simultaneously actuate each electromechanical relay .

[0046] Preferably, the adapter system comprises a plurality of adapter modules . Preferably, each adapter module is configured to be operatively interconnected to each electromechanical relay, to the set device and to the reset device .

[0047] As a result of these features , the adapter system is selectively implemented with set and / or reset logic functions . As a result of these features , the adapter system can be interconnected to a plurality of electromechanical relays .

[0048] On the basis of a third aspect , the present invention relates to a power supply system for electrical installations comprising a plurality of electromechanical relays which are configured to actuate respective electrical loads . Preferably, each electromechanical relay comprises a second switch and a second control device for opening and closing the same second switch .

[0049] Preferably, each relay is interconnected to a relevant control device .

[0050] Preferably, the control device comprises a push-button which is configured to independently actuate the second control device so as to open or close the second switch in order to switch on or off the electrical load .

[0051] The power supply system comprises a power supply source .

[0052] The power supply system comprises an adapter system .

[0053] As a result of these features , the power supply system selectively supplies the electromechanical relays by implementing set and reset logic arrangements for all the loads interconnected to the relevant electromechanical relays .

[0054] The adapter system and the power supply system allow the same advantages set out with reference to the first aspect to be afforded . The invention, as defined by each of the preceding aspects , may have one or more of the following additional features .

[0055] Preferably, the passive electronic devices are diodes . This feature allows the costs of the adapter module to be contained, though orientating the currents of the power supply system in a suitable manner . Preferably, the passive electronic devices comprise a first diode which is interconnected in series with respect to the reset push-button and which is preferably polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from the reset push-button to the diverter switch .

[0056] Preferably, the first diode is interconnected in series with respect to the reset push-button having the relevant anode orientated towards the reset push-button .

[0057] As a result of this feature , the electromechanical relay can be switched on by means of a unidirectional current .

[0058] Preferably, the plurality of passive electronic devices comprises a second diode which is preferably counter-polarized with respect to the first diode and which is preferably connected in series to the first diode when the monostable relay takes up the rest configuration Preferably, the second diode is configured so as to have a cathode in common with the first diode .

[0059] As a result of this feature , power is prevented from being supplied to the electromechanical relays if the electrical load is not switched on, in particular so as to supply the second control device of the relevant electromechanical relay only in order to send a switching-off instruction .

[0060] Preferably, when the monostable relay takes up the operative configuration, the second diode is interconnected in parallel with respect to the branch .

[0061] Preferably, the first diode , the second diode and the branch have a common node .

[0062] As a result of these features , there is provided an alternative current passage with respect to the second diode . In particular , so as to allow independently of the configuration taken up by the monostable relay, the second control device of the relevant electromechanical relay to be switched on by means of the respective control push-button, that is to say, both in order to switch on and switch off the electrical load .

[0063] Preferably, the passive electronic devices comprise a third diode which is connected in series to the first control device . This feature allows the first control device to be switched on in one direction .

[0064] Preferably, the reset push-button is connected in parallel to a signalling device .

[0065] Preferably, the reset push-button is connected in parallel to a fifth diode which is polarized so as to allow the passage of current towards the diverter switch, the fifth diode and the signalling device are completely in parallel with respect to the reset pushbutton .

[0066] These features allow the signalling of the presence of electrical loads which are switched on in the power supply system . Preferably, each control push-button is connected in parallel to a second signalling device .

[0067] Preferably, the control push-button is connected in parallel to a sixth diode which is polarized so as to allow the passage of current towards the diverter switch, the sixth diode and the second signalling device are completely in parallel with respect to the control push-button .

[0068] These features allow the signalling of the switching-on of the relevant electrical load which is supplied by actuating the relevant control push-button .

[0069] Preferably, the signalling device and / or the second signalling device comprise ( s ) an indicator light . This feature allows the user to be assisted in identifying the presence of switched-on loads .

[0070] Preferably, the passive electronic devices comprise a fourth diode which is interconnected in series with respect to the set pushbutton and which is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from the diverter switch to the set push-button .

[0071] Preferably, the adapter system comprises a plurality of reset devices . This feature allows all the electrical loads to be switched off from a plurality of points , for example , located physically in positions remote from each other , thereby assisting the users . Preferably, the adapter system comprises a plurality of set devices . This feature allows all the electrical loads to be switched on from a plurality of points , for example , located physically in positions remote from each other, thereby assisting the users .

[0072] As a result of this feature , the unidirectional passage of current in the set push-button is allowed .

[0073] Preferably, the first control device is interconnected in series to an electrical resistance .

[0074] As a result of this feature , it is possible to limit the excess voltages while the first control device is switched on and off .

[0075] Preferably, the power supply source comprises a phase line and a neutral line , preferably the phase line switches on the power supply system by being interconnected between the second switch and the second control device of the relevant electromechanical relay .

[0076] This feature allows the logic control functions of the power supply system to be made operatively independent , in particular set , reset and actuation by means of the control push-button of the relevant electrical load .

[0077] In some embodiments of the invention, the second switch, the first control device and the electrical load are switched on by a first power supply source . Preferably, the first power supply source operates at a first electric power supply voltage .

[0078] Preferably, the second control device , the diverter switch, the reset device , the control device and the set device are switched on by a second power supply source . Preferably, the second power supply source operates at a second electric power supply voltage . Preferably, the first power supply voltage and the power supply voltage are different .

[0079] These features allow the power supply system to operate at different voltages , thereby mutually insulating the circuits and sizing the relevant components for the effective operating voltages , thereby avoiding over-dimensions .

[0080] Additional features and advantages of the invention will be better appreciated from the description of the adapter for electromechanical relays and the power supply system to which the invention relates and which are illustrated by way of non-limiting example in the appended drawings , in which :

[0081] - Figure 1 illustrates a circuit diagram of the electric adapter to which the present invention relates ;

[0082] - Figure 2 illustrates an embodiment of the electric system to which the present invention relates ;

[0083] - Figures 3 and 4 illustrate an additional embodiment of the electric system and the electric adapter to which the present invention relates , respectively .

[0084] In Figures 1 and 2 , the adapter system for electromechanical relays 100 is designated 1 and the adapter module is designated 10 , and the power supply system according to the present invention is designated 30 .

[0085] The power supply system 30 comprises a plurality of relays 100 of the electromechanical type of the latching type , a power supply line A implicitly comprising a phase line L and a relevant neutral line N of the electric current , a plurality of control devices P, P, each one being configured for actuating a relevant relay 100 which is connected to a respective electrical load Z and to the adapter system 1 , as will be described in greater detail below .

[0086] In preferred embodiments , the adapter module 10 comprises a plurality of connection terminals 21 , 22 , 23 , 24 , 25 , 26 which are configured to connect the same adapter module 10 to an electric circuit 200 comprising a relevant electrical load Z , a respective control device , a set device S and a reset device R .

[0087] Preferably, the adapter module 10 comprises second connection terminals 31 , 32 , 33 which are configured to connect the same adapter module 10 to the relevant electromechanical relay 100 .

[0088] As illustrated, for example , in Figure 1 , in some embodiments the adapter module 10 comprises a control circuit 12 comprising a monostable relay 11 and a plurality of passive electronic devices DI , D2 , D3 , D4 .

[0089] Each adapter module 10 is interconnected between the relevant relay 100 and the respective control devices P so as to integrate the conventional operation thereof with different logic control arrangements for supplying the relevant electrical loads Z .

[0090] It may be observed that each control device P comprises a respective control push-button 104 for actuating the relevant electromechanical relay 100 so as to switch on or off the respective electrical load Z .

[0091] The electrical loads Z are , for example , identifiable as lighting apparatuses both in the residential and in the industrial field, though it is evident that the same concepts may also be applied in the case of other loads , such as , for example , the actuation system of a motorized shutter .

[0092] Each electrical load 100 advantageously comprises a control device T2 and a respective switch 12 which is actuated thereby and therefore controlled thereby . As will be set out in greater detail below, the present invention can use additional control devices and relevant switches and consequently the control device T2 and the respective switch 12 of the electromechanical relay 100 will be indicated as the secondary control device T2 and secondary switch 12 .

[0093] In preferred embodiments , the second control device T2 is an electromagnet which, when it is supplied by means of the electric current passage , alternately triggers the closure or opening of the second switch 12 . As illustrated in Figure 1 , the phase line L is connected to each electromechanical relay between the second switch 12 and the relevant second control device T2 .

[0094] Furthermore , each relevant electrical load Z is connected in series to the relevant secondary switch 12 of the respective electromechanical relay 100 and further interconnected to the neutral line N .

[0095] Advantageously, the adapter system 1 of the present invention may comprise one or more reset devices R, each of which is operatively interconnected to each electromechanical relay 100 by means of respective adapter modules 10 . In preferred embodiments , the reset device R further comprises a reset push-button 101 which is interconnected completely in parallel with respect to the series connection of a signalling device 12 , which may be present , and a respective diode D5 .

[0096] Advantageously, the adapter system 1 of the present invention may comprise one or more set devices , each of which is operatively interconnected to each electromechanical relay 100 by means of respective adapter modules 10 .

[0097] Preferably, each adapter module 10 is alternately configured to allow or prevent the flow of electric current in the second control device T2 . Each monostable relay 11 comprises a first control device 11 and a first switch II which is actuated by the same first control device 11 and therefore controlled thereby . Ihe monostable relay 11 is , for example , formed by an optotriac . More specifically, the first switch 11 is in the form of a diverter switch 11 , that is to say, a switch which alternately short-circuits a first pair of terminals b-e or a second pair of terminals b-d so as to modify the layout of the circuit in accordance with the logic arrangements described below . The monostable relay 11 can alternately be configured in accordance with a rest configuration and an operative configuration . In particular , according to the rest configuration, the first control device T1 is not switched on and the diverter switch I I electrically interconnects the second control device T2 to the set device S , short-circuiting the first pair of terminals b and d . While , according to the operative configuration, the control device T1 is switched on and actuates the diverter switch I I so as to electrically interconnect the second control device T2 with a branch 106 directly interconnected to the reset device R and the relevant control device P, short-circuiting the second pair of terminals b and d .

[0098] Each control device P comprises a signalling device 103 , a sixth diode D6 and a relevant control push-button 104 . In preferred embodiments , the signalling device 103 and the sixth diode D6 are mutually provided in series and completely in parallel with respect to the relevant control push-button 104 . The adapter 1 further comprises a single set device S which is operatively interconnected to each electromechanical relay 100 by means of the same adapter modules 10 .

[0099] The set device S comprises a set push-button 105 and a fourth diode D4 which are mutually connected in series . The fourth diode D4 is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from each electromechanical relay 100 to the set push-button 105 .

[0100] According to some embodiments , each adapter module comprises a second diode D2 which is provided in parallel with the second branch 106 when the monostable relay 11 takes up the operative configuration, that is to say, when the second pair of terminals b and d is short- circuited . The second diode D2 is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from the second control device T2 to the reset device R and to the relevant control device P .

[0101] Therefore , when the diverter switch 11 short-circuits the second pair of terminals b-d, that is to say, when the first control device T1 is switched on, there are two paths available to allow the passage of electric current , in particular the branch 106 which allows the two-directional passage of electric current between the second control device T2 and the reset device R and the diode D2 which allows the one-directional passage of electric current .

[0102] If the monostable relay 11 takes up the rest configuration, that is to say, in which the diverter switch 11 short-circuits the first pair of terminals b-e , the electric current can flow in one direction, as a result of the presence of the fourth diode D4 , from the second control device T2 to the set device S by means of the first pair of terminals b-c, which is short-circuited if the set push-button 105 is actuated . Furthermore , when the monostable relay 11 takes up the rest configuration, the electric current can flow in one direction from the second control device T2 to the relevant control device P, as a result of the presence of the second diode D2 , if the relevant control push-button is actuated .

[0103] In some preferred embodiments , the adapter module 10 comprises a first diode DI which is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current in one direction from the same reset device R to the diverter switch 11 . More specifically, the second diode D2 , the relevant control device P, the first diode DI and the branch 106 share a common node C .

[0104] The first control device T1 is interconnected in parallel to the relevant electrical load Z so as to always be switched on if the relevant electrical load Z is switched on, that is to say, if the switch 12 is closed .

[0105] In preferred embodiments , each connection module 10 comprises a third diode D3 which is interconnected in series to the relevant first control device T1 so as to allow the passage of electric current in one direction .

[0106] More specifically, according to the described configuration of the circuit diagram of the adapter module 1 and the power supply system 30 , the actuation of the reset push-button 101 allows the passage of electric current for switching on the second control device T2 only if the monostable relay 11 takes up the operative configuration, that is to say, if the diverter switch II short-circuits the second pair of terminals b-d, that is to say, only if the switch 12 is closed and allows the relevant load Z to be switched on .

[0107] In fact , the relevant second control device T2 of the relevant electromechanical relay 100 has to be switched on by actuating the reset push-button 101 only when the relevant electrical load Z is effectively switched on by the electric power supply source A, that is to say if the terminals b-d are short-circuited and provide the branch 106 as an alternative path to the current so as to prevent the conflict between the first diode DI and second diode D2 , which are mutually counter-polarized .

[0108] If the reset push-button 101 is actuated with a monostable relay 11 taking up the rest configuration, that is to say when the relevant electrical load Z is not switched on and when the first pair of terminals b-e is short-circuited, then the second control device T2 cannot be switched on because the single path available for the current encounters the conflict between the opposite one-directional nature of the currents which can flow between the first diode DI and the second diode D2 .

[0109] The operation of the adapter module 1 , the adapter system 1 and the power supply system 30 according to the present invention is described below .

[0110] There may be considered an initial condition, in which the second switch 12 , the control push-buttons 104 of the relevant control devices P, the reset push-button 101 and the set push-button 105 are all open, and therefore the electrical loads Z are switched off . By actuating a control push-button 104 , there is a passage of electric current from the phase line L which switches on the second control device T2 , flowing in the second diode D2 and passing through the same control push-button 104 , closing at the neutral line N . The switching-on of the second control device T2 involves the closure of the second switch 12 . The closure of the second switch 12 allows the phase line L to simultaneously switch on the relevant load Z and consequently the first control device T1 which is interconnected thereto in parallel . The power supply of the first control device T1 causes the monostable relay 11 to take up the operative configuration, that is to say, in which the diverter switch I I short- circuits the second pair of terminals b-d, thereby providing an additional path, that is to say, the branch 106 , with respect to the unidirectional path provided by the second diode D2 , for the current passage .

[0111] By again actuating the control push-button 104 of an electromechanical relay 100 , switching on the electrical load Z which was previously switched on, the second power supply device T2 is switched on again and therefore the second switch 12 is opened, moving the monostable relay 11 from the operative configuration to the rest configuration, that is to say, in which the diverter switch Il short-circuits the first pair of terminals b-e .

[0112] The provision of the signalling device 102 in parallel with respect to the reset push-button 101 and a signalling device 103 in parallel with each relevant control push-button 104 allows the transmission of relevant signals , for example , of the light-emitting type . In particular, the signalling device 103 which may, for example , be formed by an LED which is mounted on the control push-button itself , is actuated automatically if the relevant electrical load Z is switched on by the relevant electromechanical relay 100 . At the same time , the signalling device 102 which can also be , for example , formed by an LED which is mounted on the reset push-button itself is actuated automatically if any electrical load Z is switched on . By actuating the reset push-button 101 , the relevant second control devices T2 of the relays 100 are switched on only if the relevant monostable relay 11 takes up the operative configuration . In particular, if the monostable relay 11 takes up the rest configuration, that is to say, the diverter switch I I short-circuits the first pair of terminals b-e , there is no passage of electric current in the second control device T2 though the reset push-button 101 is actuated because the branch 106 has an open circuit as a result of the positioning of the diverter switch II and because the first diode DI and the second diode D2 are interconnected in series and mutually counter-polarized .

[0113] Furthermore , if the monostable relay 11 takes up the operative configuration, that is to say, the diverter switch I I short-circuits the second pair of terminals b-d, the reset push-button 101 , if actuated, allows each second control device T2 to be switched on, thereby controlling only the disconnection of each electrical load Z from the power supply source A .

[0114] Furthermore , if the monostable relay 11 takes up the rest configuration, that is to say, the diverter switch 11 short-circuits the first pair of terminals b-e , the relevant electrical load Z is switched off and by actuating the set push-button S each second control device T2 is switched on by actuating the closure of the second switch 12 . Consistently, the set device S cannot switch on the electromechanical relays 100 , in which the relevant monostable relay 11 takes up the operative configuration, that is to say, by short-circuiting the pair of second terminals b-d, because the relevant load Z is already switched on .

[0115] In some embodiments , such as the one illustrated in Figure 4 , the power supply system 30 is supplied with power from a first power supply source Al and a second power supply source A2 which operate at a first voltage VI and at a second voltage V2 which are different from each other . In particular, each first control device 11 of the relevant monostable relay 11 , each second switch 12 of the relevant relay 100 , each electrical load Z and each third diode D3 operate at the first operative voltage VI and are supplied with power from the first power supply source Al .

[0116] According to the same embodiment , each second control device 12 , each diverter switch II , the branch 106 , the first diode DI , the reset diode R, each control device P and the set device S operate at the second voltage V2 and are supplied with power from the second power supply source A2 .

[0117] In particular, the operation follows what has been described above , the circuit supplied with power from the power supply source A2 acts as a circuit simply for controlling the circuit supplied with power from the power supply source Al , which does or does not switch on the relevant load Z which is connected to the respective electromechanical relay 100 .

Claims

Claims1. An adapter module (10) comprising:- a plurality of first connection terminals (21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26) which comprise a reset terminal (25) , a control terminal (23) and a set terminal (26) , the plurality of connection terminals (21, 23, 24, 25, 26) being configured to connect the adapter module (10) to an electric circuit (200) comprising at least one load (Z) , a relevant control push-button (104) , a reset push-button (101) and a set push-button (105) ;- a plurality of second connection terminals (31, 32, 33) which comprise an additional terminal (33) , the plurality of second connection terminals (31, 32, 33) being configured to connect the adapter module (10) to an electromechanical relay (100) ;- a control circuit (12) which includes a monostable relay (11) and a plurality of passive electronic devices (DI, D2, D3, D4 ) which are operatively interconnected to the monostable relay (11) , the first and second connection terminals being operatively connected to the control circuit (12) ; wherein the monostable relay (11) comprises a first control device (Tl) and a diverter switch (II) which is actuated by the first control device (Tl) , the monostable relay (11) being configured so as to take up a rest configuration, in which the first control device (Tl) is switched off and in which the diverter switch (II) interconnects the set push-button (105) to the second connection terminals (31, 32, 33) , by means of which the adapter module (101) can be connected to the electromechanical relay (100) , and an operative configuration, in which the first control device (Tl) is switched on and the diverter switch (II) comprises a branch (106) which interconnects the additional terminal (33) of the second plurality of connection terminals (31, 32, 33) , by means of which the adapter module can be connected to the electromechanical relay (100) ; the control circuit (12) being configured in such a manner that,following the reset push-button (101) being switched on, the reset terminal (25) is in electrical continuity with the additional connection terminal (33) so as to allow a passage of electric current between the additional terminal (25) , to which the electromechanical relay (100) can be connected, and the reset terminal (25) , to which the reset push-button (101) can be connected, only when the monostable relay (11) is in the operative configuration, and being further configured in such a manner that, following the actuation of the control push-button (104) , the control terminal (23) is in electrical continuity with the additional terminal (32) so as to allow a passage of electric current both when the monostable relay (11) is in the operative configuration and when it is in the rest configuration, and further being configured in such a manner that, following the actuation of the set push-button (105) , the set terminal (26) is in electrical continuity with the additional terminal (33) so as to allow a passage of electric current only when the monostable relay (11) is in the rest configuration.

2. An adapter module (10) according to claim 1, wherein the plurality of passive electronic devices (DI, D2 , D3, D4) comprise a first diode (DI) which is interconnected in series with respect to the reset push-button (101) and which is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from the reset push-button (101) to the diverter switch (II) .

3. An adapter module (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first diode (DI) is interconnected in series with respect to the reset push-button (101) having the relevant anode orientated towards the reset push-button (101) .

4. An adapter module (10) according to claim 2 or 3, wherein the plurality of passive electronic devices (DI, D2, D3, D4) comprise a second diode (D2) which is counter-polarized with respect to the first diode (DI) and which is connected in series to the first diode (DI) when the monostable relay (11) takes up the rest configuration.

5. An adapter module (10) according to the preceding claim, whereinthe second diode (D2) is configured so as to have a cathode in common with the first diode (DI) .

6. An adapter module (10) according to claim 4 or 5, wherein, when the monostable relay (11) takes up the operative configuration, the second diode (D2) is interconnected in parallel with respect to the branch ( 106 ) .

7. An adapter module (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the first diode (DI) , the second diode (D2) and the branch (106) have a common node (C) .

8. An adapter module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the plurality of passive electronic devices (DI, D2, D3, D4 ) comprise a third diode (D3) which is connected in series to the first control device (Tl) .

9. An adapter module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the reset push-button (101) is connected in parallel to a signalling device (102) .

10. An adapter module (10) according to the preceding claim, wherein the reset push-button (101) is connected in parallel to a fifth diode (D5) which is polarized so as to allow the passage of current towards the diverter switch (II) , the fifth diode (D5) and the signalling device (102) being completely in parallel with respect to the reset push-button (101) .

11. An adapter module (10) according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the signalling device (102) comprises an indicator light.

12. An adapter module (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each plurality of passive electronic devices (DI, D2, D3, D4) comprise a fourth diode (D4) which is interconnected in series with respect to the set push-button (105) and which is polarized so as to allow the passage of electric current from the diverter switch (II) to the set push-button (101) .

13. An adapter system (1) for performing reset and set functions in a plurality of electromechanical relays (100) comprising:- a reset device (R) comprising a reset push-button (101) which isconfigured to simultaneously actuate each electromechanical relay (100) ;- a set device (S) which comprises a set push-button (105) which is configured to simultaneously actuate each electromechanical relay (100) ;- a plurality of adapter modules (10) which are constructed according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of the adapter modules (10) is configured to be operatively interconnected to each electromechanical relay (100) , to the reset device (R) and to the set device ( S ) .

14. A power supply system (30) for electrical installations comprising :- a plurality of electromechanical relays (100) which are configured to actuate respective electrical loads (Z) , each electromechanical relay (100) comprising a second switch (12) and a second control device (T2) for opening and closing the second switch (12) , each relay (100) further being interconnected to a control device (P) , each one comprising a relevant control push-button (104) which is configured to independently actuate each second control device (T2) so as to open or close the relevant second switch (12) in order to switch on or off the respective electrical load (Z) ;- at least one power supply source (Al, A2 ) ;- an adapter system (A) according to claim 13.

15. A power supply system (30) according to the preceding claim, wherein the second switch (12) , the first control device, the electrical load (Z) are supplied by a first power supply source (Al) which operates at a first electrical voltage (VI) , and wherein the second control device (T2) , the diverter switch (II) , the reset device (R) , the control device (P) , the set device (S) are supplied with power from a second power supply source (A2) which operates at a second electrical voltage (V2) .

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