Distribution box for current distribution in a grid

Abstract

The invention relates to a distribution box (10) for current distribution in a grid (12), having at least one input terminal (14) connectable to a public grid (16), and having an output terminal (18) connectable to at least one electrical load in the grid (12), wherein the distribution box (10) has a current distribution bus (20) connected to a modular input module as an input terminal (14), wherein at least one modular output module as an output terminal (18) is connected to the current distribution bus (20), such that current from the modular input module can be distributed via the current distribution bus (20) to the modular output module.

Description

[0001] 202405709 Foreign version

[0002] 1

[0003] Description

[0004] Distribution box for power distribution in a network

[0005] The following invention relates to a distribution box for a power distribution in a network, comprising at least one input terminal which can be connected to a public network and an output terminal which can be connected to at least one electrical consumer in the network, according to the applicable claim 1.

[0006] A standard distribution board, also known as a low-voltage distribution box, contains various types of circuit breakers and devices wired together to provide different measurement, switching, and protection functions for numerous final circuits. Modular design and mounting on standard DIN rails are well-established. The variety of devices and functions allows for high flexibility in implementing all possible requirements. One of the main goals in the development of these devices is cost reduction and maximizing functionality in the smallest possible volume. Furthermore, other aspects are now also important, particularly resource constraints, environmental protection, climate change issues, and the need for increased durability of the equipment.The aim is therefore to achieve fewer emissions or environmental impacts during production and operation, as well as to increase the use of recycled materials, ease of repair and upgradeability, and ease of disassembly and recycling.

[0007] The current design of corresponding distribution boxes and low-voltage products is not particularly compatible with durability requirements, and a redesign for durability would only result in a marginal improvement. Devices designed for maximum current and breaking capacity require functional plastics with specific mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties. The recovery and reuse of recycled plastics can only be carried out to a limited extent, which is why the proportion is very low. Devices containing electronics require a power supply. Most of them are self-powered. This means that almost every device has its own power supply, leading to power losses and energy consumption throughout the entire operating cycle.The proliferation of power supplies leads to lower overall efficiency, higher emissions, and the use of electronic components in their manufacture. (See also: 202405709 Foreign Version.)

[0008] Furthermore, the highest failure rate of electronic components is generally found in the power supply, which is subjected to the highest voltages and power densities. The probability of premature failure is higher when using such self-powered devices. Moreover, these devices have multiple potential points of failure, such as protection, measurement, communication, and display, so they must include all the necessary means to perform these functions. If a single component fails, resulting in the loss of only one function, the entire device must be replaced, regardless of whether the majority of its components are still operational. Repairing the device is not feasible for the customer. When the device is returned to the manufacturer, it is generally disposed of, as repair is complex and uneconomical.

[0009] The common requirement to design as many functions as possible in a small volume often leads to designs that do not allow for proper disassembly and separation of materials. Furthermore, many switching and protective devices are included in series, incorporating switches, electrical contacts, sensors, or actuators. This results in unnecessary duplication and thus material waste and emissions during manufacturing.

[0010] Furthermore, all devices must be wired on site. This results in the consumption of electrical wires, likely with halogenated insulation, which is highly hazardous to health and not easily recyclable.

[0011] The object of the present invention is to create a distribution box for power distribution in a network which can be used with high flexibility.

[0012] This problem is solved by a distribution box according to the independent claim. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the dependent claims.

[0013] One aspect of the invention relates to a distribution box for a power distribution in a network, with at least one input terminal which can be connected to a public network, and with an output terminal which can be connected to at least one electrical consumer in the network.

[0014] It is provided that the distribution box has a power distribution bus which is connected to a modular input module as an input terminal, with at least one 202405709 foreign version

[0015] 3. A modular output module is connected as an output terminal to the power distribution bus, so that power can be distributed from the modular input module to the modular output module via the power distribution bus.

[0016] In particular, this allows for the provision of a distribution box that is significantly more durable. Furthermore, the distribution box meets the requirements of digitalization and the applications of the energy transition.

[0017] In particular, the distribution box can also be referred to as a smart distribution board, and specifically as a standalone device optimized for, for example, solid-state technology and the shared use of functions. The power loss for supplying the electronics is thus minimized. For example, a combination of solid-state switches and standard relays for the output module eliminates many components typically found in mechanical switches, thereby saving materials, plastics, metals, and composites that do not require recycling. The "plug and play" modularity, similar to a computer architecture, is particularly easy to use and set up, reducing installation costs.The functions are divided among the modules; in case of a defect, only one module needs to be replaced, resulting in less waste or the need for recycling.

[0018] Furthermore, the corresponding modules can be designed with fewer volume restrictions. Air and spacing are preferred as insulators over plastics, resulting in further material savings. Additionally, fewer different types of materials are required to perform the same function, which facilitates separation and sorting for recycling. The internal structure can be optimized for better component separation. Finally, electrical and mechanical functions are designed to be highly robust and / or redundant to extend the modules' lifespan.

[0019] In particular, more volume and less density mean lower power density, lower temperature and a lower failure rate of electrical components, resulting in increased robustness.

[0020] In particular, the distribution box is thus adapted to the new requirements of digitalization, especially for power supply management. The overall material and insulation costs are lower than for a state-of-the-art distribution box that requires wiring and laborious configuration. 202405709 Foreign version

[0021] 4

[0022] According to an advantageous embodiment, the power distribution bus is four-phase. Specifically, the power distribution bus has three phases, in particular L1, L2, and L3, as well as a neutral conductor N. Thus, the power distribution bus can advantageously provide a corresponding power supply from the public grid to a network, for example, a household network. Specifically, the three phases and the neutral conductor are present on the power distribution bus to reliably distribute these three phases and the neutral conductor within the distribution box.

[0023] Another advantageous embodiment provides that at least one modular solid-state switch is arranged on the power distribution bus between the modular input module and the modular output module. The solid-state switch can also be referred to as a solid-state switch. In particular, the solid-state switch can switch on and off without an arc and can be composed of a multitude of submodules for switching each phase and the neutral conductor.

[0024] Another advantageous design provides that the power distribution bus is interrupted in the area of ​​the modular solid-state switch. In other words, the modular solid-state switch can switch the phases of the power distribution bus accordingly. This allows the solid-state switch to be used as a switching element to interrupt or switch the power distribution on the power distribution bus. This ensures reliable distribution within the distribution box and provides protection for the distribution box itself.

[0025] In a further advantageous embodiment, at least one control device for monitoring at least one module of the distribution box is arranged between the modular input module and the modular output module. The control device can also be referred to as a controller. The control device can then communicate with at least one module, and in particular with a plurality of modules, such as switches, cooling units, or the like. Similar to the input and output modules, the modular control device can be "clicked" onto the power distribution bus and is thus supplied with power. Furthermore, the control device can send control signals to the various modules via, for example, a corresponding communication bus.Thus, a single control device is designed for a large number of modules within the distribution box, so that, for example, the modules themselves with a lower 202405709 foreign version.

[0026] 5

[0027] The number of elements that can be configured is limited, as the control can be implemented centrally via the control device.

[0028] It is also advantageous if the modular output module has a large number of individual relays that can be controlled independently. For example, the individual relays can be controlled accordingly via the control unit. The output module with its individual relays can be configured for different phases of the power distribution bus. This allows for the switching of different end loads via the individual relays. Furthermore, it is also possible for high-voltage current to be supplied via the individual relays, which then switch on the different phases. This enables reliable yet simple power distribution within a building's electrical system.

[0029] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the control device is designed to control the respective switching state of the individual relays. For example, the control device can generate corresponding control signals and transmit them to the individual relays. Depending on the control signal, the individual relays can then switch the downstream network on or off. This allows for simple control of the individual relays and the downstream networks or circuits.

[0030] It has also proven advantageous for each individual relay to have a current sensing device and / or a voltage sensing device. This makes it possible, for example, to determine the corresponding power consumption or energy consumption within each individual relay. Furthermore, it allows, for example, the detection of a short circuit within the downstream electrical network based on the current sensing. The individual relay can then transmit the corresponding current or voltage reading to the control unit and, for example, if a short circuit is detected, initiate a corresponding switching action of the individual relay, so that the short circuit is interrupted within a few milliseconds. This enables the implementation of a safe distribution box.

[0031] Furthermore, it has proven advantageous if the distribution box has a modular DC-DC converter connected to a DC bus in the distribution box and the power distribution bus. The DC-DC converter can then, for example, convert electrical energy from one or more phases into DC voltage, such as 12 volts or 24 volts. (202405709 Foreign Version)

[0032] 6

[0033] A DC-DC converter can then apply this voltage to the DC bus, and the modules can then draw the corresponding DC voltage via the DC bus. This makes it possible, for example, to easily distribute DC voltage within the distribution box.

[0034] It has also proven advantageous to connect each module of the distribution box requiring a DC voltage to the DC bus. This eliminates the need for an internal DC-DC converter in these modules, as DC voltage is already available via the modular DC-DC converter. Consequently, the distribution box can be designed with fewer components.

[0035] It has also proven advantageous for the distribution box to have a modular communication module connected to the box's communication bus. This communication module can then communicate with an external network, such as via LAN or WLAN. This allows the relevant information to be easily accessed from outside the distribution box. The communication bus can then be connected to other modules relevant for communication. This enables the individual modules to transmit their information to the communication device via the communication bus, ensuring reliable access to information from the distribution box.

[0036] It has also proven advantageous for each module of the distribution box requiring communication to be connected to the communication bus. This allows for simple communication implementation. The modules do not need to individually transmit their information to, for example, a higher-level network, but can instead transmit their information to the communication module via the communication bus. This eliminates the need for separate communication modules within each module, as communication can be carried out directly with the communication module via the communication bus.

[0037] Preferably, the DC bus and the communication bus are implemented on a common circuit board, for example in the form of a motherboard. 202405709 Foreign version

[0038] 7

[0039] It is also advantageous if the distribution box has a modular residual current device (RCD) connected to the power distribution bus. Specifically, the power distribution bus is interrupted at the modular point where the RCD is located. The RCD can then be controlled, for example, via the control unit. This allows for the simple and safe operation of the distribution box via the modular RCD.

[0040] It is also advantageous to have a modular surge protection module connected to the power distribution bus. This module can detect overvoltages and protect the circuit. Specifically, the surge protection module is positioned at least between the input and output terminals. This allows the module to prevent damage to the downstream network in the event of a surge.

[0041] It is also advantageous if the distribution box has a modular metering module. A metering module can be, in particular, a current or voltage measuring device, which is operated, for example, by a distribution network. Specifically, the network's energy consumption can thus be recorded via the metering module. The metering module can then, for example, be intelligently designed and transmit the energy consumption to the distribution network operator accordingly. For this purpose, the modular metering module can also be connected to a communication module and transmit the corresponding energy consumption to the distribution network operator via the communication module, particularly automatically. Thus, a more efficient distribution box can be implemented.

[0042] A computing unit / control unit can be understood, in particular, as a data processing device containing a processing circuit. The computing unit can therefore process data to perform arithmetic operations. This may also include operations to perform indexed access to a data structure, such as a lookup table (LUT).

[0043] The computing unit can, in particular, contain one or more computers, one or more microcontrollers and / or one or more integrated circuits, for example 202405709 Foreign version

[0044] 8. One or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), one or more field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), and / or one or more systems on a chip (SoCs). The computing unit may also include one or more processors, for example, one or more microprocessors, one or more central processing units (CPUs), one or more graphics processing units (GPUs), and / or one or more signal processors, in particular one or more digital signal processors (DSPs). The computing unit may also include a physical or virtual cluster of computers or other units of the aforementioned type.

[0045] In various embodiments, the computing unit includes one or more hardware and / or software interfaces and / or one or more storage units.

[0046] A storage unit can be volatile data storage, for example as dynamic random access memory (DRAM) or static random access memory (SRAM), or as non-volatile data storage, for example as read-only memory (ROM), programmable read-only memory (PROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM), electrically erasable programmable read-only memory (EEPROM), flash memory or flash EEPROM, ferroelectric random access memory (FRAM), or magnetoresistive random access memory.It can be designed as MRAM (magnetoresistive random access memory) or as phase-change random access memory, PCRAM (phase-change random access memory).

[0047] Regardless of the grammatical gender of a particular term, persons with male, female or other gender identities are included.

[0048] Further features and combinations of features of the invention will become apparent from the figures and their descriptions, as well as from the claims. In particular, further embodiments of the invention need not necessarily include all features of any one of the claims. Further embodiments of the invention may have features or combinations of features not mentioned in the claims. 202405709 Foreign version

[0049] 9

[0050] This shows:

[0051] FIG 1 shows a schematic block diagram according to one embodiment of a distribution box; and

[0052] FIG 2 shows another schematic block diagram according to an embodiment of a distribution box.

[0053] In the figures, identical or functionally equivalent elements are provided with the same reference symbols.

[0054] FIG 1 shows a schematic block diagram according to an embodiment of a distribution box 10. The distribution box 10 is designed for power distribution in a network 12. The distribution box 10 has at least one input terminal 14, which can be connected to a public network 16. Furthermore, the distribution box 10 has at least one output terminal 18, which can be connected to at least one electrical load in the network 12.

[0055] It is provided that the distribution box has a power distributor 20, which is connected to a modular input module as input terminal 14, wherein at least one modular output module as output terminal 18 is connected to the power distributor bus 20, so that power can be distributed from the modular input module via the power distributor bus 20 to the modular output module.

[0056] Figure 1 shows in particular that the power distribution bus 20 is essentially four-phase. For this purpose, the power distribution bus 20 has, for example, a first phase L1, a second phase L2, and a third phase L3. Furthermore, the power distribution bus 20 has a neutral conductor N.

[0057] Furthermore, FIG 1 shows in particular that the modular output module 18 has a plurality of individual relays 22, which can be controlled individually. A protective earth 24 is also shown.

[0058] FIG 1 further shows that at least one modular solid-state switch 26 is connected between the modular input module and the modular output module on the power distribution bus 20 202405709 Foreign version

[0059] 10 is arranged. Furthermore, the power distribution bus 20 may be interrupted in the area of ​​the solid-state switch 26.

[0060] It can also be provided that at least one modular control device 28 is arranged between the modular input module and the modular output module for controlling at least one module of the distribution box 10. For example, the control device 28 can be configured to control the respective switching state of the individual relays 22. Furthermore, each individual relay 22 can have a current sensing device 30 and / or a voltage sensing device 32.

[0061] Furthermore, the distribution box 10 may be provided with a modular DC-DC converter 34, which is connected to a DC bus 36 of the distribution box 10 and the power distribution bus 20. Each module of the distribution box 10 that requires a DC voltage may, in particular, be connected to the DC bus 36.

[0062] Furthermore, the distribution box may be provided with a modular communication module 38, which is connected to a communication bus 40 of the distribution box 10. Each module of the distribution box 10 that requires communication can be connected to the communication bus 40.

[0063] The DC bus 36 and the communication bus 40 can preferably be implemented on the same circuit board, a so-called motherboard.

[0064] Furthermore, FIG. 1 shows that the distribution box 10 has a modular residual current protection module 42, which is connected to the power distribution bus 20. A modular surge protection module 44 can also be provided, which is connected to the power distribution bus 20. FIG. 1 further shows that the distribution box 10 can have a modular meter module 46. A further switch module 48 is also provided, which is designed in particular as an isolation switch and can be switched, for example, by the control device 28. A cooling device 50 is also provided.

[0065] Overall, FIG. 1 shows an architecture for a protective and switching device. In this context, the advantages of solid-state switches and the integration of many individual devices can be used to increase protection and improve functionality. 202405709 Foreign version

[0066] 11 and to reduce the number of elements and materials. The aim is to expand the distribution box 10 to a corresponding concept that has the following features: Maximum functional division into individual modules that can be easily replaced in case of defects or upgrades. Furthermore, access for all modules to a common power and communication bus can be implemented to ensure compatibility and enable the use of the same power source. No complex mapping is required, as all devices share the same hardware platform and connect automatically.

[0067] The modules are implemented using the same housing system and connection concept for both main and low-voltage power, even for small signals. This facilitates mass production. Furthermore, solid-state technology is employed to prevent high-energy short circuits, enable the use of simpler materials, and eliminate the need for complex and high-power switching systems. This also allows for volume savings, enabling the creation of functional modules with a very robust and simple design, facilitating repair, reuse, and easy disassembly for recycling. Additionally, functional modules can be developed to meet the requirements of digitalization and power management. A plug-and-play concept is also provided, minimizing wiring effort. Only the input and output terminals need to be connected to the distribution board.

[0068] Thus, a combination of fundamental new technologies is proposed, resulting in a durable design and ease of installation and use for the end customer. FIG 1 shows, in particular, a concept for the internal elements of the power distribution bus 20 with a 3-phase supply and neutral conductor N. The power distribution bus strips are mounted on the back of the circuit board. The bus strips are easy to bend, can be cut with automatic tools, and can be easily placed by hand or machine into a mounting board of the distribution box 10. The modules are connected to the power distribution bus 20 via simple spring-loaded terminal blocks.

[0069] Switching modules and modules with input / output current dividers require an interruption of the power distribution bus 20. Modules that only require a connection to a bus bar, such as the power supply or surge protection, have only input terminals for the power supply. A large printed circuit board module, in particular the DC distribution bus 36 and the communication bus 40, is also inserted into the carrier board and is overlapped by all functional modules. The printed circuit board module 202405709 (foreign version)

[0070] Module 12 is specifically designed as a so-called motherboard to establish the necessary connections between all functional modules. It includes the communication lines as well as the power lines, particularly for the low-voltage range. The corresponding circuit board has only a few components, primarily the connections for buses and power, protection, and EMC components.

[0071] According to the presented design, the circuit board has, for example, two corresponding communication buses 40. In particular, a non-time-critical bus is provided, which is capable of transmitting a large amount of data, for example, values ​​from energy meters and output modules or transmissions via the communication module 38. Furthermore, a time-critical bus can be provided, which is robust and insensitive, independent of the first bus, and is used to transmit safety-relevant commands between the individual modules that provide a protective function, for example, the residual current protection module 42, the control device 38, and, for example, a hard drive.

[0072] The connection between the modules on the circuit board can be achieved using standard board-to-board connectors such as PCI terminals or headers. These contacts are typically sealed or finished, for example tinned, to ensure maximum reliability.

[0073] The circuit board cover is placed on the carrier plate with internal parts and is designed so that the internal parts can be properly fixed, and good ventilation from bottom to top is ensured for natural air cooling, so that appropriate insulation is formed and only openings for the modules remain.

[0074] FIG 2 shows another schematic block diagram according to an embodiment of the distribution box 10. In particular, a view of the individual modules is shown, with the corresponding power distribution bus 20 and the DC voltage bus 36 being “hidden” behind the modules.

[0075] FIG 2 thus shows a possible realization of a simple distribution box 10, which can be designed for a small house or apartment, for example.

[0076] FIG 2 shows in particular the input terminals for connection to the public network 16 or another large distribution board upstream. This is followed by the 202405709 foreign version.

[0077] 13

[0078] The surge protection module 44, which in turn can consist of many sub-modules for the protection of each phase L1, L2, L3 and the neutral conductor N, is included. A further switch module 48 is provided, which is designed in particular as an isolating switch that can be operated manually or by the control device 28. Following this is the DC-DC converter 34, in particular as an AC / DC power supply. A common low-voltage power supply, for example for 12 volts, is provided for all modules that require such a supply. Next is the communication module 38, which can be configured for LAN, WLAN, LoRaWAN, or another communication method. Following this is the residual current protection module 42, which is designed to be configurable. Finally, the counter module 46 is included.Following the counter module 46, the control device 28 is provided, which collects data from all sensor modules and, for example, triggers the solid-state switch 26 when necessary. The solid-state switch 26, which can be switched on and off without sparking, is located next. This switch can be comprised of multiple sub-modules for switching each phase L1, L2, L3, and the neutral conductor N. Furthermore, the cooling device 50 is provided, which is designed to cool the housing and dissipate local heat generation. It can be connected to the solid-state switch 26 and is preferably located on the top of the distribution box 10. Finally, the individual relays 22 and, in particular, the output terminal 18 are provided. These relays are equipped with corresponding electrical sensors to, for example, actuate a relay switch to turn the voltage on and off in the final circuit.The output module can additionally include safety components, such as fault current detection. Output terminal 18, in turn, features wires specifically for connection to the end circuits.

[0079] In particular, the control unit 28 forms a key module that centralizes data from the sensors and incoming commands via the communication module 38. The sensors include, for example, differential currents for fault protection, an energy meter for load currents and voltage lines, and each output module / individual relay 22 has an embedded sensor. In the event of fault detection, such as a short circuit, differential current, overload, or arcing, the control unit 28 can trip the solid-state circuit breaker 26 for a rapid, arc-free interruption. If the fault can be located on a specific phase and / or output circuit, for example, by means of sensors embedded in the output module, only the corresponding phase L1, L2, L3 is connected to the solid-state circuit breaker 26.

[0080] 14 interrupted. Then the single relay 22 of the corresponding output module is opened and the interrupted phase circuit can be reconnected to supply energy to the non-faulty circuits.

[0081] If the fault cannot be quickly located, all phases L1, L2, and L3 are interrupted. Then, the individual relays 22 of the output module are opened and closed sequentially until the fault is detected again. In this case, the faulty circuit is identified and left open. Other circuits can then be energized again. A message can be sent via the communication module 38 to, for example, the user to inform them of the interruption. At any time, the solid-state switch 26 can prevent high short-circuit currents, thus enabling the use of simple individual relays 22 for the output module. In the event of a power failure, the solid-state switch 26 automatically switches to a non-conductive state, thereby interrupting the current flow.

[0082] Regular self-tests can verify the correct function of the solid-state switch 26. The self-test also includes regular communication messages between safety-related modules and automatically shuts down in case of malfunctions. Additional output voltage sensors, which can be placed downstream of the individual relays 22 of the output module, can ensure monitoring of the current status and detection of malfunctions. In the event of a malfunction of the control module or the monitoring device 28, other safety-related modules can activate at least the additional switch module 48, thus providing redundant safety. Each module connected to the common power supply has its own fuses and is disconnected from the circuit board in case of overheating, thereby ensuring the proper operation of other modules.Because each individual relay has a specific current sensor, an overload can be detected and the individual relay 22 opened. The rated current of each individual relay 22 can be configured via software. The control unit 28 receives the measured values ​​and decides whether to interrupt the circuit when necessary. Regular thermal release, for example via a bimetallic strip, is no longer required, thus saving further power losses at each individual relay 22.

[0083] In addition to the safety function and power distribution, energy measurements can be transmitted for monitoring and energy optimization. The control unit 28 can change the state of the individual relays 22 when commands are sent via the communication module 38. 202405709 Foreign version

[0084] 15 will be used. This enables a simple and cost-effective energy management system. The individual relays 22 can be controlled to supply circuits and loads with intermittent power supplies at defined times. This could include, for example, garden irrigation, security devices, lighting, vehicle charging, powering appliances during off-peak hours, or similar applications. When many of these applications work together, it is referred to as a "smart home." When the same concepts are applied to a city, it becomes a "smart" urban area.

[0085] The modules can be easily attached to the power distribution bus 20. The openings are equipped with guide features to ensure correct power connections and connections to the mainboard. Mechanical features or markings on the surface ensure that the correct modules are inserted into the designated openings. Unused openings can be closed with appropriate dummy modules or empty modules.

[0086] Many modules can be configured by the customer. For example, the properties of a contactor, the class of the energy meter, the communication type of the communication device 38, rated current or output modules, or similar, can be configured accordingly.

[0087] The modules can be assembled on-site by the user or an installer if the parts have been purchased in advance. Alternatively, the user can configure the corresponding circuit boards using a simple online tool before ordering, and the boards can be pre-assembled at the factory. Ultimately, the user only needs to connect the power supply and limit switches, significantly reducing wiring time and the likelihood of errors. Since all sensors are connected to a common main board, pairing all modules within a system is no longer necessary. The customer only needs to pair the communication device 38 and configure the system using a dedicated software tool. 202405709 Foreign version

[0088] 16

[0089] List of reference symbols

[0090] 10 distribution boxes

[0091] 12 network

[0092] 14 Entrance terminal

[0093] 16 public network

[0094] 18 Exit terminal

[0095] 20 power distribution buses

[0096] 22 individual relays

[0097] 24 Protective soil

[0098] 26 solid-state switches

[0099] 28 Control device

[0100] 30 Current monitoring device

[0101] 32 Voltage detection device

[0102] 34 DC / DC converters

[0103] 36 DC bus

[0104] 38 Communication module

[0105] 40 Communication bus

[0106] 42 Residual current protection module

[0107] 44 Surge protection module

[0108] 46 counter module

[0109] 48 additional switch modules

[0110] 50 Cooling unit

[0111] L1 first phase

[0112] L2 second phase

[0113] L3 third phase

[0114] N Neutral conductor

Claims

202405709 Foreign version 17 Patent claims 1. Distribution box (10) for power distribution in a network (12), with at least one input terminal (14) which can be connected to a public network (16), and with an output terminal (18) which can be connected to at least one electrical consumer in the network (12), characterized in that the distribution box (10) has a power distribution bus (20) which is connected to a modular input module as input terminal (14), wherein at least one modular output module as output terminal (18) is connected to the power distribution bus (20), so that power can be distributed from the modular input module via the power distribution bus (20) to the modular output module.

2. Distribution box (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the power distribution bus (20) is designed as four-phase.

3. Distribution box (10) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that at least one modular solid-state switch (26) is arranged on the power distribution bus (20) between the modular input module and the modular output module.

4. Distribution box (10) according to claim 3, characterized in that the power distribution bus (20) is interrupted at least in the area of ​​the modular solid-state switch (26).

5. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that at least one modular control device (28) for controlling at least one module of the distribution box (10) is arranged between the modular input module and the modular output module.

6. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the modular output module has a plurality of individual relays (22) which are individually controllable. 202405709 Foreign version 18 7. Distribution box (10) according to claims 5 and 6, characterized in that the control device (28) is designed to control a respective switching state of the individual relays (22).

8. Distribution box (10) according to claim 5 and 6 or 7, characterized in that each individual relay (22) has a current sensing device (30) and / or a voltage sensing device (32).

9. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution box (10) has a modular DC voltage converter (34) which is connected to a DC voltage bus (36) of the distribution box (10) and the power distribution bus (20).

10. Distribution box (10) according to claim 9, characterized in that a respective module of the distribution box (10) which requires a DC voltage is connected to the DC voltage bus (36).

11. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution box (10) has a modular communication module (38) which is connected to a communication bus (40) of the distribution box (10).

12. Distribution box (10) according to claim 11, characterized in that a respective module of the distribution box (10) which requires communication is connected to the communication bus (40).

13. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution box (10) has a modular residual current protection module (42) which is connected to the power distribution bus (20).

14. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a modular surge protection module (44) is provided which is connected to the power distribution bus (20). 202405709 Foreign version 19 15. Distribution box (10) according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the distribution box (10) has a modular meter module (46).

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