A system for controlling a connection element

Abstract

The invention relates to a system (10) comprising at least one electrical transmission element (200) for enabling the transmission of electric current between at least two electrical circuit elements, and a connection element (300) to which the electrical transmission element (200) is connected, for controlling the connection element (300). Accordingly, its novelty is a body (100) provided in a detachable manner with respect to the connection element (300); the body (100) comprising at least one current sensor (110) for enabling the measurement of the electric current value passing through the electrical transmission element (200); a lock mechanism (120) for controlling the connection element (300); a processor unit (160) for enabling the reception of an electric current value from the current sensor (110), the comparison of the electric current value with a reference electric current value, and the generation of a signal for operating the lock mechanism (120) in the event that, as a result of the comparison, it is determined that the electric current value is outside the reference electric current value.

Description

[0001] A SYSTEM FOR CONTROLLING A CONNECTION ELEMENT

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The invention relates to a system for controlling a connection element.

[0004] PRIOR ART

[0005] In solar energy systems where electrical components carrying high current are used, safe and durable connection elements are of great importance. In particular, situations such as loosening, disconnection, or accidental pulling at the connection points in these systems pose serious risks in terms of both equipment and human safety. Moreover, any weakness in the connections may lead to hazardous consequences such as electrical arcing, short circuits, and even fire.

[0006] Conventional connection methods are particularly inadequate in ensuring a secure connection. For example, connections between electrical circuits such as solar panels and battery modules are generally made manually. This leads to human errors and causes electrical arcing during the manual disconnection of cables. Furthermore, most conventional connection elements exhibit loosening or separation problems in cases where the cables are accidentally pulled or subjected to force. All of these issues pose serious safety risks, not only preventing the safe operation of the system but also increasing the risk of fire and the danger of electric shock to users.

[0007] Furthermore, in conventional systems, the current passing through the cable is not measured, which prevents monitoring of the electrical condition at the connection points and the early detection of hazardous situations. This may lead users to accidentally cut or disconnect cables carrying high current, potentially causing serious accidents. Therefore, such problems not only jeopardize user safety but also reduce the efficiency of energy systems. In the prior art, patent application number CN1 13406539A relates to a cable connector system. The mentioned system enables the monitoring of the cable condition through temperature, current, voltage, vibration, and partial discharge detection data. However, patent application number CN1 13406539A does not disclose a system that prevents loosening, disconnection, or accidental pulling at the connection points.

[0008] All the problems mentioned above have made it necessary to make an innovation in the relevant technical field as a result.

[0009] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] The present invention relates to a method to eliminate the above-mentioned disadvantages and bring new advantages to the relevant technical field.

[0011] An object of the invention is to provide a system that prevent the disconnection of cables carrying current from the connector in solar energy systems.

[0012] Another objective of the invention is to provide a system that enables energy systems to operate safely for users and without causing harm to the environment.

[0013] Another objective of the invention is to provide a system that locks the connection between a current-carrying cable and a connector when a user attempts to pull the cable accidentally.

[0014] To achieve all the objects mentioned above and that will emerge from the following detailed description, the invention relates to a system for controlling said connection element, comprising at least one electrical transmission element for the transmission of electrical current between at least two electrical circuit elements and a connection element to which said electrical transmission element is connected. Accordingly, it comprises a body provided in a detachable manner with respect to the connection element; the body comprising at least one current sensor for enabling the measurement of the electric current value passing through the electrical transmission element; a lock mechanism for controlling the connection element; a processor unit for enabling the reception of an electric current value from the current sensor, the comparison of the electric current value with a reference electric current value, and the generation of a signal for operating the lock mechanism in the event that, as a result of the comparison, it is determined that the electric current value is outside the reference electric current value. Thus, the disconnection of the electrical transmission element carrying current from the connection element is prevented.

[0015] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising an indicator for enabling the visual presentation of the electric current value. Thus, users can view the measured electric current value.

[0016] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the electrical transmission element is a cable through which high electric current flows.

[0017] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the connection element is a connector.

[0018] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the lock mechanism is an electromagnetic lock mechanism. Thus, a lock mechanism with minimal wear and long-term usability is provided.

[0019] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the electromagnetic lock mechanism comprises a magnet. Thus, the operation of the lock mechanism is enabled by the generation of the magnetic field.

[0020] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a communication unit for enabling the transmission of the electric current value measured by the current sensor to a remote server.

[0021] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the communication unit comprises a Wi-Fi card. Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising the communication unit comprises a GSM module.

[0022] Another possible embodiment of the invention is characterized comprising a circuit board in which the communication unit is placed.

[0023] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0024] Figure 1 is a schematic view of the inside of the body.

[0025] Figure 2 is a schematic view of the body.

[0026] Figure 3 is a schematic view of an indicator provided on an openable and closable body.

[0027] Figure 4 is another schematic view of the body.

[0028] Figure 5 is a schematic view of the operating scenario of the system.

[0029] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] In this detailed description, the subject matter is explained with references to examples without forming any restrictive effect only in order to make the subject more understandable.

[0031] Referring to Figures 1 and 2, the invention relates to a system (10) for controlling a connection element (300), the system comprising at least one electrical transmission element (200) for enabling the transmission of electric current between at least two electrical circuit elements, and a connection element (300) to which the electrical transmission element (200) is connected. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the electrical circuit element may be circuit elements used in solar energy systems, such as solar panels, inverters, charge controllers, and batteries. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the electrical transmission element (200) may be a cable through which high electric current flows. In another possible embodiment of the invention, the connection element (300) may be a connector.

[0032] The system (10) comprises a body (100) provided in a detachable form with respect to the connection element (300). Referring to Figure 3, in a possible embodiment of the invention, the body (100) may be in the form of a box that can be opened and closed.

[0033] The system (10) comprises at least one current sensor (1 10) for measuring the value of the electric current passing through the electrical transmission element (200) provided in the body (100). In this way, the electric current passing through the Electrical transmission element (200) is continuously measured.

[0034] The system (10) comprises a lock mechanism (120) provided inside the body (100) and operated according to the electric current value measured by the current sensor (1 10) in order to control the connection element (300). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the lock mechanism (120) is an electromagnetic lock mechanism. The electromagnetic lock mechanism comprises at least one magnet (121 ).

[0035] The system (10) comprises a processor unit (160) provided inside the body (100). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the processor unit (160) may be a CPU, a GPU, a microprocessor, etc.

[0036] The processor unit (160) provides for receiving an electric current value from the current sensor (110) and comparing the electric current value with a reference current value.

[0037] The processor unit (160) enables the generation of a signal for operating the lock mechanism (120) in the event that, as a result of the comparison, it is determined that the electric current value is outside the reference electric current value. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the reference electric current value may be an electric current value determined to detect whether electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200). For example, the reference electric current value may be 0 Amperes. Thus, if the electric current value measured by the current sensor (1 10) is 0 Amperes, it is understood that no electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200). On the other hand, if the electric current value measured by the current sensor (1 10) is greater than 0 Amperes, it is understood that electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200).

[0038] The lock mechanism (120) ensures that the electrical transmission element (200) is fixed to the connection element (300) in the event that it is determined that electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200). In this way, it is ensured that the connection between the electrical transmission element (200) and the connection element (300) is not interrupted while electric current is passing through. In the event that it is determined that no electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200), the lock mechanism (120) is deactivated. In this way, the disconnection between the electrical transmission element (200) and the connection element (300) is enabled when there is no electric current. Thus, the risk of fire, the risk of electric shock, and potential harm to human health and the environment are eliminated.

[0039] For example, in the case where electric current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200), the processor unit (160) generates an operation signal for the activation of the lock mechanism (120) and transmits it to the lock mechanism (120). Upon receiving the operation signal, the magnet (121 ) within the electromagnetic lock mechanism generates a strong magnetic field. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the body (100) may comprise a metal plate to be attracted by the magnet (121 ). In this way, the attraction of the metal plate (130) positioned opposite the magnet (121 ) causes the two surfaces to adhere to each other. Thus, the opening of the connection element (300) is prevented, and the disconnection of the electrical transmission element (200) from the connection element (300) is avoided.

[0040] In the case where no current is passing through the electrical transmission element (200), no magnetic field is generated, and thus the magnet (121 ) and the metal plate (130) can separate from each other. In this way, the electrical transmission element (200) and the connection element (300) can disconnect from each other. By using an electromagnetic lock mechanism as the lock mechanism (120), the lock mechanism (120) is enabled to operate reliably for a long time due to minimal wear. Additionally, the electromagnetic lock (120) responds rapidly to the measurements received from the current sensor (110). In this way, when an attempt is made to pull electrical transmission elements carrying high current, the electromagnetic lock mechanism is activated to prevent hazardous situations.

[0041] Referring to Figure 4, in a possible embodiment of the invention, the system (10) comprises an indicator (140) for enabling the visual presentation of the electric current value. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the indicator (140) is provided on the body (100). The indicator (140) may be a LED display. In this way, continuous monitoring of the electric current value is ensured. Additionally, real-time information can be provided to users.

[0042] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the system (10) comprises a communication unit (400) placed inside the body (100) for enabling the transmission of the electric current value measured by the current sensor (110) to a remote server (500). In a possible embodiment of the invention, the communication unit (400) comprises a WiFi card. The Wi-Fi card can be used in environments where an Ethernet connection is available.

[0043] In another possible embodiment, the communication unit (400) comprises a GSM module. The GSM module can be preferred in environments where an Ethernet connection is not available. In a possible embodiment of the invention, the body (100) may comprise a circuit board (150) on which the communication unit (400) is placed. In this way, the connection status between the electrical transmission element (200) and the connection element (300) can be monitored and intervened remotely when necessary. Additionally, since the connections can be monitored remotely, energy losses and faults can be detected early, and the continuous operation of the solar energy system can be ensured.

[0044] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the system (10) can be used in electrical systems with cable connections carrying high electric current, such as solar energy systems, energy storage systems, and / or inverter devices that convert direct current (DC) to alternating current (AC).

[0045] An example working scenario of the invention is as follows;

[0046] In a possible embodiment of the invention, the invention may provide enhanced safety for technicians working in solar energy systems. The system (10) prevents incorrect interventions with current-carrying cables. For this purpose, the electric current passing through the cable is continuously measured and monitored by the current sensor (1 10). The measured electric current value is compared with a reference value to determine whether electric current is passing through the cable.

[0047] In the event that it is determined that electric current is passing through the cable, a signal is transmitted by the processor unit (160) to the lock mechanism (120). In this way, thanks to the magnetic field generated by the magnet (121 ) in the electromagnetic lock mechanism, the cable is prevented from being pulled out of place, thereby eliminating the risk of a possible electric arc or short circuit.

[0048] In the event that the current sensor (1 10) detects that no electric current is passing through the cable, the electromagnetic lock mechanism is deactivated. In this way, the technician can safely intervene with the cable. Thus, the system (10) reduces safety risks during operation.

[0049] The LED display in the system (10) visually shows the current value passing through the cable. This display provides the technician with real-time information about the current status, thereby ensuring safe working conditions. In this way, in cases of high current, the technician will be able to take the necessary precautions before intervention.

[0050] Additionally, the system (10) provides remote monitoring and control capabilities via the Wi-Fi module on the circuit board (150) in environments where an Ethernet connection is available. In cases where no Ethernet connection is present, communication is established through the GSM module located on the circuit board (150). In this way, the system (10) can be remotely controlled via mobile devices or computers. The technician can monitor the current values to check whether the solar energy system is safe and can receive instant alerts in the event of any abnormal condition.

[0051] The scope of protection of the invention is specified in the attached claims and cannot be limited to those explained for sampling purposes in this detailed description. It is evident that a person skilled in the art may exhibit similar embodiments in light of the above-mentioned facts without drifting apart from the main theme of the invention.

[0052] REFERENCE NUMBERS GIVEN IN THE FIGURE

[0053] 10 System

[0054] 100 Body

[0055] 1 10 Current sensor

[0056] 120 Lock mechanism

[0057] 121 Magnet

[0058] 130 Metal plate

[0059] 140 Indicator

[0060] 150 Circuit board

[0061] 160 Processor unit

[0062] 200 Electrical transmission element

[0063] 300 Connection element

[0064] 400 Communication unit

[0065] 500 Server

Claims

CLAIMS1 . The invention relates to a system (10) for controlling said connection element (300), comprising at least one electrical transmission element (200) for the transmission of electrical current between at least two electrical circuit elements and a connection element (300) to which said electrical transmission element (200) is connected, characterized in that it comprises a body (100) provided in a detachable manner with respect to the connection element (300); the body (100) comprising at least one current sensor (1 10) for enabling the measurement of the electric current value passing through the electrical transmission element (200); a lock mechanism (120) for controlling the connection element (300); a processor unit (160) for enabling the reception of an electric current value from the current sensor (1 10), the comparison of the electric current value with a reference electric current value, and the generation of a signal for operating the lock mechanism (120) in the event that, as a result of the comparison, it is determined that the electric current value is outside the reference electric current value.

2. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises an indicator (140) for enabling the visual presentation of the electric current value.

3. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the electrical transmission element is a cable through which high electric current flows.

4. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the connection element (300) is a connector.

5. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the lock mechanism (120) is an electromagnetic lock mechanism.

6. A system (10) according to claim 5, characterized in thatthe electromagnetic lock mechanism comprises a magnet (121 ).

7. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises a communication unit (400) for enabling the transmission of the electric current value measured by the current sensor (110) to a remote server (500).

8. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the communication unit (400) comprises a Wi-Fi card.

9. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that the communication unit (400) comprises a GSM module.

10. A system (10) according to claim 1 , characterized in that it comprises a circuit board (150) in which the communication unit (400) is placed.

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